Brussels, 8 October 2025 — Boeing is poised to win conditional approval from the European Union for its planned $4.7 billion acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems, according to people familiar with the matter. The European Commission is expected to issue its decision by 14 October.
Conditions for Approval
EU regulators raised concerns over the deal’s impact on competition, particularly because Spirit AeroSystems supplies both Boeing and Airbus with key aircraft components. To address these concerns, Boeing is expected to divest certain Spirit operations tied to Airbus programs, including facilities in Prestwick, Scotland, Subang, Malaysia, and parts of its Belfast operations. These remedies are designed to ensure Airbus retains a secure and independent supply chain.
Strategic Rationale
Boeing announced the acquisition in July 2024, aiming to bring Spirit — once part of Boeing before being spun off in 2005 — back under its control. The move is intended to streamline production, improve quality control, and stabilize supply chains, particularly after recent safety and manufacturing setbacks. Spirit builds major components for Boeing aircraft, including 737 fuselages and 787 structures, making it a critical supplier.
Global Regulatory Landscape
The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority granted unconditional approval earlier this year, while the U.S. Federal Trade Commission is still reviewing the deal. Airbus has separately agreed to acquire Spirit’s operations that exclusively serve its aircraft programs, a parallel transaction that helped ease antitrust concerns.
Outlook
If approved, the acquisition will mark a significant restructuring of the aerospace supply chain, giving Boeing tighter control over production while safeguarding Airbus’ access to critical components. Analysts say the deal could help Boeing rebuild confidence with regulators and customers, though challenges remain in restoring its reputation for safety and reliability.
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