Boeing Starts New 737 MAX Line in Everett Facility

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Everett Facility Adds Dedicated 737 MAX Capacity

Boeing has begun operating a new 737 MAX final assembly line at its factory in Everett, Washington, marking the start of a fourth line for the narrowbody program. Internally referred to as the North Line, the addition is a central element of the U.S. manufacturer’s strategy to expand production of its high-demand single-aisle aircraft in response to strong global appetite for new jets.

In June, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg said the company would “load” the first airplane onto the Everett line on July 6, describing the new operation as a replica of the three existing 737 final assembly lines at Boeing’s Renton plant south of Seattle.

Production Rate Strategy and Timeline

The launch of the Everett line coincides with a step-up in 737 output after consultations with the Federal Aviation Administration. Boeing is moving from producing 42 to 47 737 jets per month as it works through regulatory and operational constraints.

Although the North Line expands physical capacity, it is not expected to support any further rate increase before early 2027. Boeing has targeted that timeframe to lift 737 production to 52 jets per month. In addition, the company is analyzing the feasibility of pushing monthly output as high as 70 aircraft.

Regulatory Scrutiny and Quality Challenges

Boeing’s push to increase 737 MAX output comes as it works to stabilize operations following years of disruptions related to manufacturing, safety issues, and supplier pressures. These challenges have weighed on the company’s financial position, making higher and more stable production an important objective.

The Federal Aviation Administration placed restrictions on 737 production after a January 2024 incident involving a midair blowout of a door plug on a nearly new Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9. That event heightened regulatory and public attention on Boeing’s manufacturing controls and prompted the company to slow production while it addressed quality shortcomings.

Everett Plant Utilization and Market Context

The Everett facility, described as the world’s largest building by volume, has significant available space following the end of 747 production and the consolidation of 787 assembly in South Carolina. The building previously hosted assembly lines for the 747, 767, 777 and 787 programs, leaving room that Boeing is now deploying for 737 MAX work through the North Line.

The 737 MAX is Boeing’s entry in the high-volume single-aisle segment, where it faces competition from Airbus’ A320neo family. In this market, airlines are experiencing extended waits for new aircraft, underscoring the strategic importance of additional production capacity for both manufacturers.