Boeing and Rivals Eye War Risks in Plane Parts Supply

A big U. S. plane maker recently sent a note to its suppliers asking them to check if war in the Middle East might slow down the flow of jet parts. The request came as oil prices climbed past one hundred dollars per barrel, making travel and shipping pricier. Flights and cargo routes in the region have already seen delays, which can ripple through factories far from the fighting. The company isn’t naming the conflict but everyone knows it’s been going on for weeks. While most airplane parts aren’t actually built in the Middle East, some smaller factories there do make pieces for popular jets. One such factory in the United Arab Emirates supplies parts for Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner. If those parts get stuck in customs or on delayed ships, assembly lines elsewhere have to wait.Rivals like Airbus and Embraer are asking similar questions of their own suppliers. Airbus says it’s talking daily with partners across the region to spot trouble early. Embraer’s boss has said so far deliveries are fine, but the company is still watching transport costs closely. Industry watchers worry that if the war drags on, airlines may cut back on new plane orders, especially in the Gulf where carriers buy lots of wide-body jets. Oil price spikes also add to the strain. High fuel costs can make airlines less interested in buying new planes, even if factories are ready to build them. At the same time, defense orders are rising, pulling parts and workers away from commercial projects. Some experts fear a government order could force suppliers to prioritize military work, leaving commercial jets waiting even longer.