Wed, May 18, 2011
Build Time Decreases From 52 To 49 Days As Rate Increases
Workers have rolled out the first Boeing 777 jetliner
prouduced at the seven-per-month rate. The airplane, a freighter,
will be delivered to FedEx Express in June. This is the fourth
time that the program has built the 777 at the seven-per-month
rate. The program 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, 777 vice president and general manager.
"We were prepared, thorough and disciplined as we have increased
our production rate from five to seven."
As production rate increased, the program reduced production
flow 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.
The flow reduction is attributed to increased productivity in those
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," he added.
"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," said Loftis.
The 777 program received 48 new orders through April 2011, and
has a backlog of more than 280 airplanes. In first quarter 2013 the
program will again increase rate from seven to 8.3 airplanes per
month –100 airplanes per year – an all-time high.
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