Boeing Announces Closure of Wichita Facility by End of 2013

In a recent announcement, Boeing disclosed that its Boeing Defense, Space and Security (BDS) facility in Wichita, Kansas, will close by the end of 2013. The plant currently employs over 2,160 highly skilled workers.

“Closing the Wichita site was a tough decision. It was based on a comprehensive review of the market landscape and our capacity to stay competitive while delivering the best, most cost‑effective solutions to our customers,” said Mark Bass, vice‑president and general manager of BDS’s Maintenance, Modifications & Upgrades division. “We recognize the profound impact this will have on our employees, their families, and the community, and we are committed to providing full support during this transition.”

Wichita is home to Boeing’s global transport and executive systems operations, as well as the B‑52 and 767 international tanker programs. The site also supports flight‑mission planning and integrated logistics.

Over the past five years, contracts at Wichita have matured or ended, and the facility lacks sufficient future work to sustain an affordable cost structure. “In light of defense budget cuts and shifting customer priorities, we are consolidating to reduce costs, boost efficiencies, and strengthen competitiveness,” Bass added.

Program transitions will begin in the coming months, with a complete shutdown slated for the end of 2013. Job reductions are not expected until early in the third quarter of 2012. Future maintenance, modification and support tasks will be relocated to Boeing’s San Antonio facility, while engineering responsibilities will move to the Oklahoma City plant. The KC‑46 tanker program will now be handled in Puget Sound, Washington, with the 24 Kansas suppliers continuing to supply key components as originally planned.

Boeing is offering employees a range of assistance services, including retirement seminars, job‑search resources, financial counseling, and help locating positions within or outside the company.

Boeing Defense, Space and Security is a $32‑billion business headquartered in St. Louis, employing 63,000 people worldwide. For more details, visit Boeing.com/bds.