Boeing to increase 737 MAX production to 47 jets per month

Boeing is increasing 737 MAX production by adding a fourth assembly line at its Everett, Washington, plant to reach 47 jets per month ^[1].

This ramp-up is a critical step for the company to recover market share and address a backlog of orders following years of regulatory scrutiny and production delays. By expanding capacity, Boeing aims to stabilize its delivery schedule and compete more effectively with its primary global rival.

CEO Kelly Ortberg said the company is prepared for the expansion after satisfying regulatory benchmarks. "We have met the FAA's requirements and are ready to increase production to 47 jets per month," Ortberg said ^[1].

The move to four assembly lines ^[1] comes as Boeing seeks to narrow the output disparity between itself and Airbus. A Boeing spokesperson said the company's goal is to get closer to the output of Airbus, which is around 60 jets a month ^[3].

This strategic shift follows a period of intense focus on quality control and safety protocols. Ortberg said the company remains focused on delivering on schedule and quality as it expands assembly capacity ^[2]. The expansion at the plant north of Seattle is designed to meet renewed demand while maintaining the safety standards mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration ^[1].

Boeing has faced significant pressure to increase its rate of production to satisfy airline customers who have waited for new aircraft. The addition of the fourth line allows the company to scale operations more aggressively than previous attempts to increase output ^[1].