Everett Facility Begins Operating New Production Line
Boeing (NYSE:BA) is set to activate a fourth final assembly line for the 737 MAX on Monday at its Everett, Washington, manufacturing site, marking another step in the company’s strategy to expand aircraft production.
Known internally as the North Line, the facility forms part of Boeing’s long-term plan to increase output of its best-selling narrow-body aircraft as airlines continue to place strong orders amid sustained global demand.
Chief Executive Kelly Ortberg confirmed in June that the first aircraft would enter the new production line on July 6, describing the facility as a replica of the three existing 737 assembly lines at Boeing’s Renton plant near Seattle.
Production Targets Continue to Increase
The launch coincides with Boeing’s move to raise monthly 737 production from 42 to 47 aircraft following discussions with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Although the North Line is not expected to contribute to higher production rates immediately, Boeing intends to increase monthly output to 52 aircraft by early 2027. The company is also evaluating the possibility of eventually producing as many as 70 aircraft per month.
Expanding Output Remains a Strategic Priority
Increasing 737 production remains central to Boeing’s efforts to strengthen its financial position after several years marked by manufacturing setbacks, supply chain disruptions and safety-related challenges.
The FAA imposed production limits following the January 2024 mid-air door plug failure involving an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9, an incident that intensified regulatory oversight and required Boeing to improve manufacturing quality before expanding output.
Everett Provides Capacity for Future Growth
The Everett facility, recognised as the world’s largest building by volume, previously assembled the 747, 767, 777 and 787 programmes. Following the end of 747 production and the relocation of most 787 manufacturing to South Carolina, substantial factory capacity became available.
The 737 MAX remains Boeing’s main competitor to the Airbus A320neo family, with both manufacturers facing multi-year order backlogs as airlines continue to modernise their fleets.