Hawker Beechcraft announced yesterday that it “is implementing a furlough of its supply chain and final-assembly Premier IA and Hawker 4000 line in Wichita to synchronize its production line with availability of composite material from a key supplier.” While Hawker Beechcraft would not confirm the identity of this supplier, industry sources told AIN that the problem stems from epoxy resin supplier Cytec Engineering. At press time, Cytec had not responded to AIN’s inquiries seeking comment.

“Increases in production of commercial and military programs have placed higher demand on composite material suppliers. It is a matter of composite material availability and Hawker Beechcraft synchronizing its production accordingly,” Hawker Beechcraft said. “This will be done on a rolling basis over the next 30 to 60 days and likely last between 30 to 45 days for the affected employees.” Hawker Beechcraft did not disclose how many employees are affected.

The company added that it will continue moving Hawker 4000s through its upgrade and enhancement program, as well as completing and delivering Hawker 4000s and Premier IAs out of its Little Rock facility.