Spirit AeroSystems says it is laying off about 360 employees at its Kansas and Oklahoma facilities.
The Wichita-based aircraft parts maker announced the move Thursday, a day after union officials disclosed company preparations for the anticipated layoffs. The move affects salaried support staff and management employees.
The company said in a news release that the action is a strategic move to make the company more competitive in a cost-sensitive environment. Spirit says it's trying to reduce overhead costs, increase efficiency and improve performance.
Spirit AeroSystems, which makes large sections of airplanes assembled by companies such as Boeing and Airbus, saw its first-quarter net income rise 10 percent as demand for commercial planes increased.
