IndustryBoeing said it is inspecting and repairing a group of newly built 737 MAX aircraft after identifying minor damage to electrical wiring during production, an issue that could delay some deliveries in the first quarter.
According to the manufacturer, small scratches were found on wiring bundles due to a machining error discovered during the assembly process. The affected aircraft are undergoing rework before being delivered to customers.
The company said the issue does not affect 737 MAX aircraft already in service and that those jets can continue operating normally. Boeing also confirmed it has informed both airline customers and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration about the matter.
Despite the additional work required on some aircraft, Boeing said production of the 737 MAX continues at the current rate of 42 jets per month. The manufacturer plans to increase output to 47 aircraft monthly later this year and eventually reach a production rate of 63 jets per month.
The update came as Boeing reported 51 aircraft deliveries in February, its highest total for the month since 2018 and an increase from the 46 aircraft handed over in January. The figure included 43 units of the 737 MAX.
The result also placed Boeing ahead of Airbus in monthly deliveries.The European manufacturer delivered 35 commercial aircraft in February, reflecting ongoing supply chain disruptions affecting the industry.
Boeing said the wiring issue is not expected to derail its delivery targets for the year, with the company still aiming to hand over about 500 units of the 737 MAX in 2026.
