Some airlines are being forced to ground flights due to a shortage of spare parts for planes, The Wall Street Journal reported.
Lufthansa, Germany’s biggest airline, is one carrier grappling with parts shortages, the report said, and is having to source components such as cabin panels from other parts of the world.
Qatar Airways is keeping an Airbus A380 superjumbo on standby in the event that its planes are grounded as a result of the shortage in parts. It is also flying its planes for fewer hours to manage the effects of engine maintenance delays.
Airplane parts manufacturers are looking to ramp up their production to overcome delivery delays as return for travel surges this summer. CFM International is about two months behind schedule with the delivery of new engines, The Journal reported, and is trying to speed up its deliveries by working with suppliers.
Engine maker Rolls-Royce is also experiencing delays but is working with customers to find solutions, while rival Pratt & Whitney is seeking to increase engine deliveries later this year.
