In the most recent indication of Boeing’s improving reputation with safety authorities, US officials announced Friday that they had approved the company’s request to expand manufacturing of 737 MAX planes.
After receiving certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the planemaker will now be permitted to construct the single-aisle plane at a rate of 42 per month instead of 38, according to a source with knowledge of the situation.
“FAA safety inspectors conducted extensive reviews of Boeing’s production lines to ensure that this small production rate increase will be done safely,” the FAA said.
“Our direct oversight of Boeing’s production processes…has not changed,” the FAA added. “Safety critical personnel, including inspectors at Boeing, are continuing to work during the government shutdown.”
Given how important aircraft deliveries are to Boeing’s earnings, the rise is also anticipated to improve the company’s financial performance. For the past six years, Boing has recorded yearly losses.
Following fatal MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019, the FAA’s announcement on Friday is the most recent indication of its better status with regulators.
As a result, the jet was grounded for an extended period of time, and the FAA was blamed for having an unduly close relationship with the firm during congressional investigations.
The FAA permitted the MAX to resume service in November 2020, but the aircraft again came under scrutiny following a January 2024 flight in which an Alaska Airlines jet was forced to make an emergency landing after a window panel blew out.
According to a Boeing representative, the business has monitored its progress using performance metrics that are disclosed with the FAA.
According to the spokesperson, the company will collaborate with suppliers “to increase production in a disciplined manner,” and the rate increase would be applied with “safety and quality at the forefront.”
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