Catherine Keller's questions to Hexcel Corp (HXL) leadership • Q1 2025
Question
Catherine Keller of Wells Fargo, asking for Matt Akers, requested details on the production rate assumptions for Boeing's 737 MAX and 787 programs embedded in the revised guidance. She also inquired about Hexcel's potential opportunities on future defense programs like NGAD and FA-XX.
Answer
Chairman, CEO and President Tom Gentile stated that the 737 MAX assumption remains in the low 30s per month for the year, while the 787 plan incorporates a 3-to-6-month delay in rate increases. Regarding future defense programs, Gentile affirmed that Hexcel has opportunities and emphasized its strategic advantage as the only U.S.-owned manufacturer of aerospace-grade carbon fiber composites, which is a key consideration in the current geopolitical environment.