Boeing Announces Layoffs, Restructuring in Wichita

The Boeing Co. recently announced plans to cut approximately 800 positions at its Integrated Defense Systems facility in Wichita, KS, during 2009. Boeing attributes the reductions to the end of some programs and the delay in the U.S. Air Force tanker-replacement program. The layoffs will impact managers and both salaried and hourly workers.

Their last day of work is scheduled for mid-January. The company will deliver the balance of the layoff notices throughout 2009, with most occurring in the first half of the year.

"We regret the need to reduce employment. We understand the disruptions that layoffs cause in personal lives and in our community," says Scott Strode, vice president and general manager of Boeing Wichita. "However, a combination of events are limiting our business options and forcing us to reduce our current employee total. We also are taking steps to restructure our business in order to lower our rates and become more affordable for customers."

Boeing Wichita currently employs approximately 3,000 people who work on a variety of programs, including Global Transport & Executive Systems programs for the U.S. executive fleet, B-52/Refueling Systems Support, 767 International Tanker, Mission Planning, engineering support for Airborne Laser and 747-8, and Integrated Logistics Support.

"Our goal is to place more work in Wichita, but while we seek new business, it is vital for the future health of Boeing Wichita that we address our current business realities," Strode says.

Boeing will help as many affected employees as possible find jobs at other Boeing locations. The company will also provide resume-writing assistance and job-hunting workshops. boeing.com