Report: GE Aviation, which has big plant in Durham, to furlough half engine manufacturing workers

DURHAM – GE Aviation will furlough half its workers, the company told CNBC on Thursday.

The firm operates a huge plant in Durham where some 400 people work.

“Due to the unprecedented impact of COVID-19 on the commercial aviation industry, GE Aviation is implementing a temporary reduction in commercial engine assembly and some component manufacturing operations for up to four weeks,” a GE spokesperson told CNBC. “We appreciate the commitment of all our employees during this difficult time, and we regret having to take this action. We will continue to deliver for our customers and preserve our capability to respond when the industry recovers.”

GE Aviation, which employs hundreds in Durham, is laying off 10% of workforce

The move comes just days after GE Aviation announced layoffs affecting 10 percent of its workforce, or some 2,600 people.

“The [furlough] would involve thousands of jobs in the important unit and last for four weeks,” CNBC reported.

The Vermont Digger in Rutland, Vermont, also reported GE Aviation furloughs at a plant in that city.