Boeing Begins Expansion of 737 Commercial Delivery Center Improvements support rising production rates, increasing demand for 737s

SEATTLE, March 17, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) today kicked off expansion of its 737 Commercial Delivery Center (CDC) at Boeing Field in Seattle. The project more than doubles the space that will be available for customers and groups supporting increased 737 deliveries.

"Our customers expect and deserve a first-class facility when they come to pick up their airplanes, and we think these improvements will take their experience to the next level," said Beverly Wyse, 737 vice president and general manager, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "A larger, more capable facility is essential as we continue to increase our rates and get ready for the introduction of the new 737 MAX."

The expanded CDC will be more than 90,000 square feet and include a new three-story building, as well as new delivery and departure areas with three covered jetways. The design features an open, airy look with large windows overlooking the Boeing Field flight line. The CDC expansion is the latest of many investments Boeing is making across the Puget Sound region and in the future of the 737 program.

"I founded the King County Aerospace Alliance to foster the continued growth and global competitiveness of our region's aerospace industry, and this expansion is great economic news for the county and our airport," said King County Executive Dow Constantine. "This is a significant investment by Boeing in our region, securing our partnership for generations to come."

"The continued investment Boeing is making to build this facility at Boeing Field demonstrates the company's long-term commitment to Washington and the Seattle region, home to the best aerospace workers in the world," said Seattle Mayor Ed Murray.

Production of the 737 is set to increase to 42 airplanes per month in April and to 47 airplanes per month in 2017, an increase in output of nearly 50 percent since 2010. Deliveries of the 737 MAX, with the latest technology CFM International LEAP-1B engines and other efficiency enhancements like Advanced Technology winglets, will also begin in 2017 at the upgraded facility.

Plans are in place to ensure seamless deliveries to 737 customers during construction, which includes the demolition of one building. The CDC expansion is scheduled for completion in mid-2015.