Mergers and acquisitions across the aerospace supply chain are approaching a record as Boeing and Airbus provide buyers with greater visibility into future production. Janes Capital Partners counted 154 publicly disclosed commercial aerospace transactions through August, nearly matching the annual record of 159 set in 2019. The deals totaled $14 billion, excluding GE Aerospace's $12 billion purchase of Consolidated Precision Products announced in September. Buyers are targeting suppliers with scarce skilled workers, specialized manufacturing expertise and capacity, while aircraft makers seek control of critical components. Boeing delivered 600 jets last year, its highest total since 2018, and is on track to exceed that figure this year. Airbus aims to deliver 870 jets, above its pre-pandemic record of 863 in 2019. More private-equity-owned suppliers are also coming to market after pandemic-related production swings and inventory buildups made valuations difficult. Competition has spread to smaller businesses, with Boulevard Machine owner Susan Kasa receiving two to three buyer calls daily.