The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has given Boeing the green light to increase production of its 737 Max jets, raising the monthly cap from 38 to 42 aircraft. The decision comes nearly two years after a mid-air incident in January 2024, when a door plug blew off an Alaska Airlines 737 Max, prompting regulators to impose strict limits on the company’s output.
The FAA said the approval followed extensive inspections of Boeing’s manufacturing lines, ensuring that the company could safely handle a higher production rate. The agency emphasized that its oversight of Boeing’s operations will remain unchanged, with inspectors continuing to monitor production closely, even during the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Boeing, which has faced a turbulent period marked by investigations and an eight-week machinists’ strike that slowed output, welcomed the decision. A company spokesperson said Boeing had followed a “disciplined process” to prepare for the increase, aligning with safety guidelines and performance goals set in coordination with the FAA. In a statement, the aerospace giant added, “We appreciate the work by our team, our suppliers and the FAA to ensure we are prepared to increase production with safety and quality at the forefront.”
The production cap had been introduced in early 2024 as regulators sought to address widespread concerns about Boeing’s safety culture and quality control. Although the company initially struggled to meet even the capped rate, it reported over the summer that it had reached the 38-per-month threshold and was ready to seek approval for expansion.
For Boeing, the ability to produce more 737 Max jets is a critical step in its recovery. The single-aisle aircraft remains its most important commercial product, and higher output will help the company meet delivery commitments to airlines while improving cash flow. Industry analysts note that the FAA’s cautious approval reflects both the regulator’s determination to enforce safety standards and Boeing’s efforts to rebuild trust after years of setbacks.
While the increase to 42 jets per month is modest, it signals a gradual return to stability for Boeing. The FAA stressed that safety will remain the top priority, and any further production hikes will depend on continued compliance with rigorous oversight.
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