Boeing confirmed on April 24, 2026, that it is preparing to accelerate production of its 737 MAX narrow-body aircraft to 47 units per month beginning in July. The announcement, delivered by Chief Executive Officer Kelly Ortberg during a review of the company’s first-quarter financial results, represents a five-unit increase from the current rate of 42 aircraft per month. This development is the second production hike permitted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) since the regulator imposed a strict ceiling of 38 jets per month in early 2024.
The production cap was originally established following the mid-air door plug blowout on an Alaska Airlines flight in January 2024, which led to intense federal scrutiny of Boeing’s quality management systems. The FAA recently transitioned its oversight from a hard numerical cap to a performance-based model centered on Safety Management System (SMS) maturity. Under this framework, Boeing is permitted to increase output as long as internal quality metrics, such as the reduction of traveled work and quality escapes, remain within verified safety thresholds.
To support the higher production cadence, Boeing has activated a fourth 737 MAX assembly line at its facility in Everett, Washington. This marks the first time the MAX has been produced outside of the traditional Renton factory. Operational stability has also been bolstered by the completed integration of Spirit AeroSystems, which Boeing reacquired to gain direct control over fuselage manufacturing and quality assurance. Katherine Ringgold, Vice President and General Manager of the 737 Program, stated that 2026 is designated as a year of growth following a period of stabilization throughout 2025.
Financial data released alongside the production update shows Boeing’s commercial airplane division generated $9.2 billion in revenue for the first quarter of 2026, a 13% increase compared to the same period last year. Total company revenue rose 14% to $22.2 billion. While Boeing reported a net loss of $7 million for the quarter, the figure represents a significant narrowing from the $31 million loss recorded in the first quarter of 2025. The company’s cash burn also improved, dropping to $1.5 billion from $2.3 billion a year earlier.
The acceleration is intended to address a delivery backlog that currently stands at approximately 4,800 aircraft. Major customers, including Ryanair and United Airlines, have been anticipating higher output to meet their own fleet expansion schedules. Boeing also provided updates on its certification efforts, noting that the MAX 7 and MAX 10 variants are expected to receive final certification later in 2026, with first deliveries scheduled for 2027. The company continues to work with the FAA to ensure the supply chain is prepared for a potential further increase to 53 aircraft per month by the end of the year.