Boeing is poised to receive conditional approval from the European Commission for its proposed $4.7 billion acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems, according to sources familiar with the matter. The approval is expected to be contingent upon a series of divestitures aimed at addressing EU competition concerns, Reuters reported.
The U.S. aerospace manufacturer announced the deal in July 2024, describing it as a strategic move to streamline operations and enhance quality control following years of operational and reputational challenges. Boeing originally spun off Spirit AeroSystems two decades ago, but the supplier has since struggled to maintain profitability and independence, despite expanding its customer base to include Airbus and other aircraft manufacturers.
To mitigate antitrust concerns, Boeing is expected to adhere to the remedies outlined in the original acquisition agreement, sources said. These measures include the sale of Spirit’s loss-making, Europe-focused operations to Airbus, as well as the divestment of Spirit’s sites in Prestwick (Scotland) and Subang (Malaysia) that support Airbus programs. In addition, Boeing plans to sell Spirit’s Belfast operations that are not linked to Airbus projects.
The European Commission, which serves as the EU’s competition authority, is expected to issue its final decision by October 14. Both Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems declined to comment on the ongoing review.
The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) cleared the transaction without conditions in August, signaling a more relaxed approach to the deal compared with Brussels.
Industry analysts note that Boeing’s decision to reacquire its former subsidiary reflects a broader effort to stabilize its supply chain and address persistent quality and production challenges that have disrupted its commercial aircraft programs. The transaction also comes as Boeing continues to navigate a wider corporate and industrial crisis, underscoring its determination to regain control over key segments of its manufacturing network.
If confirmed, the Commission’s conditional approval would constitute a key development in Boeing’s ongoing restructuring efforts and a defining moment for Spirit AeroSystems as it returns to Boeing amid heightened regulatory oversight.
