Boeing monitors effect of earthquake on key suppliers

Boeing stated the Japanese earthquake and tsunami may have affected some of its suppliers, including those for the B787 project (MarketWatch/Agence France-Press/CNBC/Bloomberg, 14-Mar-2011). Some 35% of the B787 is being constructed in Japan. Japanese companies also provide parts for the B777 and B767. "Initial reports from our business partners in Japan are that they have had no major impact. However, we continue to assess the situation," Boeing spokesman Marc Birtel said. Boeing is also monitoring the availability of power, infrastructure and transportation. Mr Birtel also stated that the manufacturer has inventory parts to last "several weeks before we may start seeing issues". Suppliers in Japan include Fuji Heavy Industries, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Jamco Corp. Boeing has suspended business travel to Japan until airports and transportation systems return to more normal operations. The company has 200 employees residing in Japan, all of whom were accounted for with no reports of serious injuries.