In an evident effort to curb supplier problems related to 787 parts, Boeing Co. has struck a $580 million deal for the acquisition of a Vought Aircraft Industries-owned plant that manufactures large sections of its 787 jetliner.

The South Carolina plant produces barrel-like fragments – chiefly made out of lightweight materials - of the 787’s fuselage; which fit between the airliner’s wings and tail.

The purchase of the plant by Boeing will help the company avoid the unwarrantedly expensive delays of the next-generation aircraft, which have delivered a severe blow to the company's reputation.

For the 2003-launched 787 airliner, Boeing has been using parts supplied from manufacturers around the world; later assembling them at its plant near Seattle. But, the company has had to face many problems, including like ill-fitting parts, which have adversely affected the airliner’s final production, and caused delays in its delivery. However, despite the problems, Boeing has not changed its 787 production plan.

Commenting on the Boeing move to buy the 787 parts plant, analyst Richard Aboulafia - at the aerospace consultancy, the Teal Group – said: “This clearly is more about securing the supply chain and undoing numerous mistakes. It's a good move, it's a proactive move, it undoes some damage. But on the other hand, it shows the 787 program still has more than a few challenges to overcome.”