Boeing to Invest $1 Billion to Expand its 787 Dreamliner Production

Boeing is investing $1 billion to upgrade infrastructure at its 787 Dreamliner production hub in Charleston County, South Carolina. This announcement, made on December 12, 2024, promises to bring 500 new jobs to the region over the next five years.

For over a decade, the workforce at Boeing South Carolina has been at the forefront of assembling the 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 aircraft. Currently, the facility employs 7,800 people across its North Charleston Airport and North Campuses, as well as the West Campus in Orangeburg.

Expansion Plans to Boost 787 Dreamliner Production

Boeing’s ambitious plans include the expansion of both North Charleston campuses to increase production targets for the 787 Dreamliner. The company aims to raise the production rate to 10 787 Dreamliners per month by 2026. This expansion also prepares the facility to handle potential future increases driven by market demand.

Scott Stocker, Vice President and General Manager of the 787 Program and Boeing South Carolina (BSC) Site Leader, expressed enthusiasm about the investment and its implications for South Carolina:

“Boeing’s decision to expand in Charleston County further solidifies South Carolina’s position as a leader in the aerospace industry. This significant investment and the 500 new jobs it will bring to the Lowcountry reflect Boeing’s confidence in our workforce and highlights the strength of our pro-business environment. We look forward to continuing to build our partnership and the opportunities this expansion will bring to our state.”

A Win After Production Restart

The announcement comes on the heels of Boeing resuming 737 MAX production at its Renton facility in Washington after a seven-week strike earlier this month. This progress signals a return to stability following a turbulent period for the company.

In addition to its infrastructure upgrades, Boeing appears to be moving forward with the much-anticipated Boeing 797 medium-sized passenger jet. While reports suggest the aircraft will be built at Renton rather than South Carolina, details remain scarce. Speculation continues about whether the 797 will take the form of a widebody or narrowbody aircraft, with its final design yet to be confirmed.

Competing With Airbus

Boeing’s expansion in South Carolina is part of its strategy to compete with Airbus, its primary rival. Airbus is ramping up production of its flagship Airbus A350 to 12 aircraft per month by 2028. Despite supply chain challenges, Airbus is set to deliver a total of 770 aircraft in 2024, a target that overshadows Boeing’s projected delivery of 395 commercial jets for the same year. In 2024, Airbus is expected to deliver 764 commercial jets, reaffirming its strong position in the market.

The History of Boeing South Carolina

Boeing’s South Carolina facility has a storied history. Opened in July 2011, it occupies a sprawling 1,200,000 square feet and includes diverse operations such as Boeing Research & Technology, the IT Center of Excellence, Propulsion Systems, the Interiors Responsibility Center, and the Engineering Design Center. The facility’s establishment followed Boeing’s acquisition of Vought and Global Aeronautica in 2008 and 2009, respectively.

This $1 billion investment underscores Boeing’s long-term commitment to innovation, job creation, and maintaining its competitive edge in the global aerospace industry.

• Featured image via North Charleston – Wikimedia Commons

Youssef Yahya

Youssef Yahya is the CEO and Founder of Aviation for Aviators, a platform dedicated to the aviation industry. With over 3 years of experience as an aviation writer, Youssef is passionate about sharing his insights on aviation, entrepreneurship, and the broader business landscape. As a Teaching Assistant in Entrepreneurship at Nile University, he also nurtures the next generation of entrepreneurs. When he’s not exploring the skies or business ventures, you can find him saying, ‘Drag your coffee, and let’s talk aviation, entrepreneurship, and football.’

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