Boeing (BA) and Spirit Aerosystems (SPR) late Friday confirmed the companies were talking about a possible merger, almost two decades after the aircraft manufacturer spun out its former components unit.
“We have been working closely with Spirit AeroSystems and its leadershp to strengthen the quality of the commerical airplanes that we build together,” Boeing said in a statement. “We confirm that our collaboration has resulted in preliminary discussions about making SpiritAeroSystems a part of Boeing again.”
Spirit, which builds fuselage and other parts used by Boeing and other aircraft companies, also confirmed the discussions without providing additional details. Spirit said it would not issue updates about the negotiations until “further disclosure is appropriate or required.”
Spirit shares were more than 2% higher in after-hours trading, adding to a 15% advance during Friday’s regular session. The Wall Street Journal and other news outlet earlier reported the companies were discussing a potential deal, with Spirit hiring investment bankers to assist with the process.
Shares of Boeing, which spun out Spirit in 2005, was little changed in late trade. The stock fell nearly 2% during regular trading on Friday.