Rotorcraft
Boeing Renovates CH-47 Chinook Line for Increased Production
Boeing is investing $130 million to overhaul the Boeing CH-47 Chinook production line in Ridley Park, Pa., making it the largest capital investment made by
A nearly-completed CH-47 Chinook inside the factory near Philadelphia. (Photo: Boeing)
A nearly-completed CH-47 Chinook inside the factory near Philadelphia. (Photo: Boeing)

Boeing is investing $130 million to overhaul the Boeing CH-47 Chinook production line in Ridley Park, Pa., making it the largest capital investment made by the company’s Defense, Space & Security segment. The project to renovate 223,000 sq ft of production space around lean manufacturing principles will be completed in October.

Bolstered by the U.S. Army’s procurement of new F-model Chinooks and orders from several international customers, the CH-47 is experiencing its highest demand in 20 years, the company says. The production rate is being raised from about four to six aircraft per month. There are two lines: one for CH-47Fs and another for international Chinooks and U.S. special operations MH-47Gs.