VIRGINIA– Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg has outlined a strategy to increase the production of the 737 MAX in response to rising demand. The objective is to elevate production to 42 aircraft monthly in the short term, with aspirations to reach 47 by early 2026.
This initiative follows a recent resurgence in production quality and advancements in regulatory approvals. Boeing is focusing on stabilizing its financial status as it recovers from previous production challenges and cash flow deficits.
Boeing’s current production rate for the 737 MAX stands at 38 aircraft per month, a limit set by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in 2024 after a safety issue in midair.
CEO Kelly Ortberg stressed the essential nature of boosting production to 42 jets each month shortly, with the aim to prepare for 47 aircraft by late 2025, clarifying that this rate would not be achieved by the end of this year as previously misstated.
Ortberg highlighted a 30% reduction in production defects, leading to improved customer satisfaction upon delivery.
“Almost all our customers are reporting a better quality airplane,” he stated.
According to Reuters, the enhanced quality control measures are a critical part of Boeing’s strategy to restore trust and reliability in its manufacturing processes.
The company’s financial performance is closely linked to its production volume. Boeing reported a cash burn of $2.3 billion in Q1 yet anticipates becoming cash-flow positive in the latter half of the year.
Ortberg reiterated that enhancements in financial performance will correlate with improvements in production.
Certification Efforts
Boeing is progressing with the certification of the 737 MAX 7 and MAX 10 models, which have encountered delays primarily due to concerns regarding the engine de-icing system.
Key testing is projected to conclude by July, with certification expected before the year ends.
This achievement is crucial for fulfilling nearly 1,200 orders for the MAX 10 and 332 for the MAX 7.
The MAX series jets are pivotal to Boeing’s commercial strategy, offering fuel efficiency and versatility for short to medium-haul flights.
Global Market Outlook
Boeing anticipates that Chinese airlines will resume aircraft deliveries in June after a pause in April.
This halt was reportedly linked to US trade tariffs imposed during the Trump administration.
Ortberg believes the financial repercussions of the suspension will stay under $500 million, an acceptable amount considering Boeing’s extensive order book and global demand.
The re-opening of the Chinese market is a significant opportunity for revenue generation and may further enhance Boeing’s production capabilities as international travel bounces back.
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Based on an article from aviationa2z.com: https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/2025/05/30/boeing-plans-737-max-production-increase/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=boeing-plans-737-max-production-increase
