Douglas Denies Plant in Long Beach for Sale

McDonnell Douglas officials late Thursday strongly denied a wire service report and widespread rumors among employees that the corporation may sell its commercial aircraft operation in Long Beach.

Rumors were swirling Thursday that the operation had been put up for sale, that it would file a Chapter 11 bankruptcy petition or that McDonnell Chairman John McDonnell would step down.

A United Press International story out of Seattle also quoted an anonymous Douglas Aircraft parts supplier as saying he had been told by mid-level Douglas executives that the company was for sale.

“There is no truth in that whatsoever,” said Douglas’ deputy president, John Capellupo.

Douglas Aircraft spokesman Don Hanson also denied the story “absolutely.”

UPI reported that Mitsubishi Heavy Industries of Japan has emerged as the most likely buyer.

But Mitsubishi spokesman Teruo Oyama said in Tokyo today that the firm is not considering any such purchase and is not engaged in any purchase talks with McDonnell Douglas.

A McDonnell spokeswoman had no comment on reports that John McDonnell will hold a press conference on Monday.