Boeing

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and KLM Engineering and Maintenance today said they've signed a cooperative agreement to jointly offer the Next-Generation 737 Component Services Program (CSP), which provides fast access to critical parts.

The program offers airlines cost savings that can equal 30 percent of their component repair and inventory costs by providing access to a pool of components, which is jointly managed by Boeing and KLM Engineering and Maintenance. By utilizing the Spares distribution center in Amsterdam , the components will be available for shipment within 24 hours. In addition, the operator can replace a faulty unit quickly and easily without having to maintain its own large inventory.

"By joining forces with a well established and respected MRO provider like KLM Engineering and Maintenance, we are able to offer greater flexibility to our customers," said Lou Mancini, vice president and general manager of Boeing Commercial Aviation Services (CAS).

"This cooperation underlines the Engineering and Maintenance vision that KLM, as a company based in the Netherlands, has to invest in the maintenance market," said Ad Rutten, executive vice president of KLM Engineering and Maintenance. "With Boeing as a partner, we are strengthening our long-term position in the international airplane maintenance market."

Boeing CAS also offers a range of additional products and services that help airlines generate more revenue flying hours, add value to an airplane's life cycle, and enhance aviation safety.

KLM Engineering and Maintenance provides MRO support to over 100 airlines worldwide and is strengthening its position as a Boeing 737 Center of Excellence. Apart from base maintenance, it provides overhauls for 737 landing gears and CFM56-7 engines.