Why Boeing Is Adding a Fourth 737 MAX Assembly Line in Everett, Washington
Key Points
- 1Boeing is adding a fourth 737 MAX assembly line at its Everett, Washington, factory, historically a widebody site.
- 2The new 'North Line' is primarily intended to handle the 737 MAX 10 and support a future production rate of 52 aircraft per month.
- 3The activation timeline is tied to the FAA's approval for production rate increases and the expected 2026 certification of the 737 MAX 10.
- 4The expansion is a strategic move to address a backlog of over 4,700 orders and increase overall narrowbody capacity.
The Boeing Company is moving forward with plans for a new 737 MAX production line. This fourth assembly line will be located at the Everett, Washington factory. The strategic move is designed to significantly increase the manufacturer’s overall narrowbody production capacity. It will help meet the sustained, high global demand for the popular single-aisle jet.
Strategic Expansion and Production Goals
Boeing’s current 737 MAX production is centered in Renton, Washington. That facility operates three existing assembly lines. The new line in Everett is often called the "North Line." It represents the first full narrowbody operation at the Everett site. This factory is traditionally known for building widebody aircraft. The space became available after the 747 program ended. It was also freed up when 787 Dreamliner assembly moved to South Carolina.
This expansion is critical for the increase 737 MAX capacity plan. The manufacturer is working to ramp up its monthly output. Boeing is currently targeting a rate of 47 aircraft per month by mid-2026. The Everett line is seen as essential for achieving even higher rates. Company executives have indicated it will be a key venue for a rate-52 production level.
Focus on the 737 MAX 10
The new Boeing 737 MAX production line in Everett will focus on the 737 MAX 10 production. The MAX 10 is the largest variant in the 737 family. It is also the most complex to build. Dedicating a separate line for this model will help streamline manufacturing. This strategy is intended to keep the three Renton lines flowing smoothly. They can then focus on the high-volume MAX 8 and MAX 9 versions. The MAX 10 is currently expected to receive Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification in 2026.
Regulatory and Market Context
The plan to open the Everett Washington assembly line has faced delays. It was originally slated to begin running in the second half of 2024. The FAA imposed a FAA production cap of 38 aircraft per month. This followed a January 2024 in-flight incident involving a 737 MAX 9. The FAA has since approved an increase to 42 aircraft per month. However, the regulator continues to maintain heightened oversight.
Boeing's focus remains on quality and safety improvements. The activation of the Everett line is tied to the stability of the overall production system. It is also linked to the certification of the MAX 10. The move provides greater aerospace supply chain resiliency. It also positions Boeing for future growth. The company has a single-aisle jet backlog of over 4,700 aircraft as of late 2025.
Industry Impact and Challenges
This production expansion is a positive signal to airlines. Carriers worldwide are waiting for new aircraft deliveries. The Boeing production rate increase helps alleviate the delivery backlog. It also helps airlines modernize their fleets. The primary competitor, Airbus, is also working to increase its own production rates. This highlights the intense demand in the narrowbody market.
Key challenges remain for the manufacturer:
- Maintaining Quality Control: The FAA's strict oversight requires sustained quality improvements. This is the top priority for all production ramp-ups.
- Supply Chain Stability: The global aerospace supply chain must support the higher production volume.
- 737 MAX 10 Certification: The final regulatory approval for the MAX 10 is a prerequisite for its full production.
The new line in the Boeing Everett Factory is a long-term investment. It signals confidence in the 737 MAX program's future. For more commercial aviation news, visit flying.flights.
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