For The 1st Time In 60 Years, Boeing Will Build The 737 Outside Renton: Here's Why It Matters

Boeing will begin building the 737 outside Renton for the first time in nearly 60 years, shifting final assembly to its Everett, Washington facility. Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg confirmed that production will start on July 6 on a new 737 MAX final assembly line known as the North Line, creating a second home for the program. Boeing said the change adds capacity and supports higher output rates while it works through a substantial order backlog and ongoing manufacturing recovery. The company emphasized Everett is complementary rather than a replacement for Renton, where the company’s three existing 737 production lines will continue operating. Boeing also highlighted Everett’s historic role in widebody aircraft manufacturing, including 747, 767, 777 and 787 programs. The 737 remains Boeing’s highest-volume commercial aircraft and drives most of the company’s commercial deliveries. The article ties the move to competitive pressure from Airbus production targets.