Boeing boosts 777 production
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Boeing has rolled out the first 777 jetliner at the increased seven-per-month production rate. The aircraft, a freighter, will deliver to FedEx Express in June 2011.
This is the fourth time that the 777 programme has reached the seven-per-month rate. The programme also built at this rate from July 1997 to February 1998, August 1998 to October 1999 and most recently from November 2006 to May 2010.
“This rate increase reflects the strong demand for the 777. It continues to be the clear leader in the 300-400 passenger seat market,” said Larry Loftis, the 777 programme’s Vice President & General Manager. “We were prepared, thorough and disciplined as we have increased our production rate from five to seven.”
As production rate increased, the programme reduced the number of days it takes to complete each aircraft from 52 to 49 days from start to finish. Days of flow were removed in wing spar, service-ready wing and final body join areas.
“We incorporated lessons learned from previous rate increases to ensure we’d have the smoothest transition,” said Loftis. “Fortunately, we entered the rate break when the program is very healthy, and we are experiencing some of the all-time-best metrics. Our customers are eager to buy more 777s and the airplane has rightly earned the reputation as the market leader. Now, our job is to deliver,” added Loftis.
The 777 programme received 48 new orders through April 2011, and has a backlog of more than 280 units. In first quarter 2013 the programme will again increase rate from seven to 8.3 airplanes per month – 100 aircraft per year – an all-time high.
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