Boeing Targets 737 MAX Production Rate of 47 Per Month by Mid-2026

RENTON, Wash. — Boeing plans to increase its 737 MAX monthly production rate to 47 aircraft by the second quarter of 2026, executive leadership confirmed March 18. The projected ramp-up follows a stabilization phase where output currently sits at 42 jets per month, pending Federal Aviation Administration approvals for increases beyond that level.

Supply Chain Strategy

Katherine Ringgold, vice president of the 737 program, said during a Renton facility visit that the company is comfortable with current stability levels. CEO Kelly Ortberg noted that inventory buffers would mitigate supply chain risks associated with the transition to higher rates. Long-term goals include reaching 52 to 53 aircraft monthly, supported by a backlog exceeding 6,000 orders sold through the 2030s.

Regulatory Oversight

Production caps were imposed following a January 2024 Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 door plug failure, which led to an FAA-mandated limit of 38 aircraft per month. With October 2025 approval raising output to 42, subsequent increases will require continued regulatory clearance. Boeing also plans to commission a fourth assembly line at its Everett facility to support further growth beyond 2026.