Boeing is setting up decentralised engineering teams in international locations to meet growing demand for aftermarket services.
Operators have traditionally consulted the manufacturer for large modifications, such as conversion of passenger aircraft to freighters, Boeing vice-president fleet services Mike Fleming said during a briefing in London today. But, he adds, there has been increasing demand for comparatively small modifications – such as cabin layout changes and wi-fi-system installations – which requires "right-sizing" of the airframer's support infrastructure.
These projects don't require the overheads and process complexity typically associated with manufacturing programmes, Fleming notes. Instead, he asserts, the airframer should "replicate" ways in which third-party engineering specialists develop supplementary type certificates.
Fleming insists that this strategy will not lead to a downsizing of Boeing's engineering centre in Long Beach, California. There, the airframer concentrates on modifications rather than manufacturing programmes. But he says the airframer's fleet services division intends to optimise internal processes and employ smaller entities – such as UK engineering subsidiary Continental DataGraphics – to support airlines and lessors in their home regions.
CDG specialises in cabin interior modifications, technical documentation and training-software development.
Boeing plans to expand such activities and set up additional service centres in other locations, Fleming reveals.
Earlier this month, the airframer launched a joint venture with Singapore Airlines' maintenance arm, SIA Engineering, to provide fleet management services. The new unit, named Boeing Asia Pacific Aviation Services, will offer engineering, materials management and fleet support management for 737s, 747s, 777s and 787s.
Source: Cirium Dashboard
