Boeing to Launch New 737 Max Assembly Line in Washington
RENTON, Wash. – Boeing has announced plans to initiate production of its new 737 Max airplanes at a newly established final assembly line in Everett, Washington, starting July 6. CEO Kelly Ortberg revealed the news during a recent interview with CNBC, emphasizing the company’s commitment to increasing its production capabilities.
“This new production line is essentially a replica of our existing facility in Renton,” Ortberg stated. “We are set to load our first airplane on July 6, marking the activation of our fourth assembly line.”
The new assembly line is expected to significantly boost Boeing’s production capacity, with plans to increase output to 52 jets per month by next year. Currently, the company is producing 47 Max airplanes monthly, having recently ramped up from 42 units earlier this year.
However, Boeing’s production ambitions face regulatory constraints from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which imposed limits on manufacturing following a safety incident involving an Alaska Airlines aircraft in January 2024. This incident resulted in a thorough review of Boeing’s safety and quality assurance processes.
“We are focused on restoring our reputation and have made substantial progress in the last 18 months,” Ortberg noted. “Our approach has changed; we will not advance production until our systems are stable. Unlike in the past, we are ensuring that we do not push work down the line prematurely, which gives us a reason for optimism.”
Boeing’s leadership has set a long-term target of achieving a production rate of 63 Max airplanes per month, contingent on the capacity of the supply chain to support such an increase.
The new assembly line will initially focus on the 737 Max 10, a larger variant of the single-aisle aircraft, which is anticipated to receive FAA certification before the end of the year. This certification will pave the way for the first deliveries of the 737 Max 10.
As Boeing prepares to enhance its production capabilities, the company remains committed to adhering to safety regulations while striving to meet growing demand for its aircraft.
