Boeing has informed its suppliers that it is pushing back a key production milestone for the 737 MAX by six months, according to three industry sources. The new schedule sets a goal of reaching a production rate of 42 jets per month by March 2025, instead of the previously planned September 2024.

The delay reflects Boeing's ongoing challenges in ramping up production of its popular single-aisle jet, exacerbated by additional safety and regulatory checks following a midair incident involving a 737 MAX door panel earlier this year.

The revised master schedule, which serves as a demand forecast rather than an official production target, has not altered Boeing's formal production goal of 38 MAX jets per month by the end of 2024. This target is an increase from approximately 25 jets per month reported in July.

Boeing CFO Brian West emphasized in late July that adjustments to the master schedule are made to align with supplier capabilities and inventory levels, aiming to maintain supply chain stability.

In response to Boeing's updated production plans, Spirit AeroSystems reduced its fuselage output for the 737 MAX from 31 to 21 units per month starting in August. Spirit AeroSystems has adjusted its delivery and production rates in line with its supplier agreements.

The changes in Boeing's production targets have created challenges for suppliers in forecasting and planning. To improve supplier relations and production efficiency, Boeing Commercial Airplanes is reorganizing its operations and contracts teams, though the company declined to comment further on this internal adjustment.