Ever-Evolving Renton Factory Readies for Boeing 737 Max
New automated processes are helping Boeing create what it believes will be the most efficient aircraft production facility in the world.
Boeing’s new panel assembly line (PAL) cuts flow time by 33 percent. (Photo: Gregory Polek)
Boeing’s new panel assembly line (PAL) cuts flow time by 33 percent. (Photo: Gregory Polek)

Boeing’s 737NG production line in Renton, Washington is now benefiting from a new automated panel-assembly process, as the company continues its efforts to prepare for a throughput increase from 42 to 47 aircraft a month by 2017, then to 52 by 2018. The increase will start next year at roughly the same time as Boeing transitions from current-generation 737s to the new 737 Max.