Boeing To Leave Seattle?

Thanks machinists union.

There are several reports Boeing is negotiating to buy a facility in South Carolina from 787 supplier Vought Aircraft Industries, thought of by some as a weak link in the Dreamliner supply chain. Analysts say if Boeing buys the supplier, it'll get a better handle on production.

"Part of it is just taking care of a weak partner who didn't have the financial depth to take itself through all of these production issues and delays," said Scott Hamilton, an aerospace consultant.

There are concerns jobs would move to South Carolina, rather than stay in Washington for another 787 line.

"The big question is will this serve as the nucleus for a second site for 787 final assembly and it's quite possible," said Richard Aboulafia with the Teal Group.

Boeing has not commented.

A Boeing employee making his way into the Everett plant Thursday morning says he can see why the company would pack up and move. "Yeah, I can understand from their point of view, cheaper costs there, but I just think it would be nice if the company and the union could find some middle ground."