Boeing has put its newest 737 MAX assembly line into operation at its Everett, Washington facility, marking a significant step in the company’s effort to build more of its best-selling narrow-body aircraft.
The new production line, referred to within Boeing as the North Line, began loading its first aircraft on July 6. Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg announced the milestone in June, describing the Everett line as essentially a replica of the three existing 737 final assembly lines located at Boeing’s Renton facility, south of Seattle.
The launch is happening as Boeing ramps up 737 production from 42 to 47 jets per month, a move coordinated with the Federal Aviation Administration. However, the North Line itself is not expected to contribute to any production rate increases until early 2027, when Boeing is targeting an output of 52 aircraft per month. The company is also exploring the possibility of pushing production as high as 70 jets per month down the road.
Boosting 737 output is critical for Boeing as it works to stabilize its finances after years of manufacturing setbacks, safety controversies, and supply chain difficulties. The FAA placed production caps on the 737 program following a January 2024 incident in which a door plug blew out mid-flight on a nearly new Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9. That alarming event led to heightened scrutiny of Boeing’s manufacturing practices and forced the company to scale back production while it worked to correct quality control problems.
The Everett plant holds the distinction of being the largest building in the world by volume. While it once hosted production lines for the 747, 767, 777, and 787 jets, significant factory floor space opened up after 747 production ended and 787 assembly was consolidated at a facility in South Carolina.
The 737 MAX goes head-to-head with Airbus’ A320neo family in the competitive single-aisle jet market, where airlines around the world are facing multi-year waits for new aircraft deliveries.
