Boeing reduces the workforce of its commercial airplanes division by approximately 5%, amid a slowdown in production increases

Boeing will reduce the number of employees in its commercial airplane division by approximately 5% amid a slowdown in production increases, the American company announced Monday. The measure will be implemented through attrition, without replacing departing employees, as well as through layoffs.

The decision is aimed primarily at adjusting staffing levels to revised production plans for 737 MAX aircraft, one of the manufacturer’s most important models. The company is trying to stabilize its manufacturing pace, but the reduction in the number of aircraft produced has led to a surplus of employees.

Stephanie Pope, president of the commercial airplane division, explained in an internal message that changes to production schedules had created a situation in which the number of employees exceeded operational needs. According to her, Boeing must align its workforce with the revised business plan.

Notifications regarding the layoffs will begin in December. Boeing has not yet specified how many positions will be eliminated. The measure represents another adjustment by the company as it seeks to restore production and address operational difficulties in the 737 MAX program.