Longer wings will improve the aerodynamics of the 777X and folding wing tips will allow the new jets to occupy many of the same gates now filled by the current 777 series aircraft

Boeing Inaugurating New 777X Wing Plant in Washington

May 20, 2016
Boeing Commercial Airplanes completed a $1-billion assembly plant in Everett, Wash., where composite wings will be integrated to the fuselages of its new 777X wide body jet.

Boeing Co, (IW500/12) is due to inaugurate a $1-billion assembly plant in Everett, Wash., on Friday, May 20, where composite wings will be integrated to the fuselages of its new 777X wide body jet. The opening for the 1.3-million square-foot plant signifies continued progress in the redevelopment the 777 long-range aircraft series, and a boost to the confidence of the OEM’s West Coast operations – which in recent years have competed with the newer manufacturing base Boeing set up in North Charleston, S.C., as the center of its 787 Dreamliner assembly operations.

The 777X will be a redesigned version of the 777, which already is the world’s largest twin-engine aircraft. The new jets are intended to compete with the new Airbus A350, and will be available in two models, the 777-8X and 777-9X.

While the 777X is not set to make its first appearance until 2020, Boeing has over 300 orders and commitments for the jets from Lufthansa, Etihad Airways, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Qatar Airways, All Nippon Airways, and other unidentified carriers. Assembly operations are scheduled to begin next year.

Read More


American Machinist is an IndustryWeek companion site within Penton's Manufacturing & Supply Chain Group.


About the Author

Robert Brooks | Content Director

Robert Brooks has been a business-to-business reporter, writer, editor, and columnist for more than 20 years, specializing in the primary metal and basic manufacturing industries. His work has covered a wide range of topics, including process technology, resource development, material selection, product design, workforce development, and industrial market strategies, among others. Currently, he specializes in subjects related to metal component and product design, development, and manufacturing — including castings, forgings, machined parts, and fabrications.

Brooks is a graduate of Kenyon College (B.A. English, Political Science) and Emory University (M.A. English.)

Sponsored Recommendations

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of IndustryWeek, create an account today!