Here's what the Boeing strike might mean for flyers

Boeing workers went on strikeFriday, the latest disturbance in what has proven a devastating year for the American aircraft manufacturer.

But it is not clear whether the labor stoppage will have an impact for the flying public, although there are concerns about a potential effect on air travel next summer.

U.S. carriers that rely heavily on Boeing planes include Southwest, United and Alaska Airlines.

In a statement, Southwest said its operations were unlikely to be affected in the short-term by any production delays Boeing may end up suffering.

"Earlier this year, Southwest Airlines took steps to address potential delivery disruptions," the carrier said. "As a result, we currently have the fleet needed to fulfill our upcoming schedules. We remain in close communication with Boeing."

Southwest exclusively uses Boeing 737s — planes made made in Renton, Washington, one of the sites now on strike by members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. Southwest had sharply brought down its delivery target for Boeing aircraft earlier this year.

A United spokesperson said the carrier was working with Boeing to understand what the impact to the airline's delivery schedule might be.

A spokesperson for Alaska Airlines did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Airlines are in charge of maintaining aircraft once they come into possession of them, and crews won't sign off on allowing a plane to fly if it is deemed not airworthy, said Henry Harteveldt, founder and president of Atmosphere Research Group, an airline industry consultancy.

"There will probably be very little direct impact on consumers as a result of the Boeing strike," Harteveldttold NBC News.

Estimates of how long the strike could last vary