Boeing will continue to rely on 'disciplined approach' to 777 production rates
Boeing is coming under, and resisting, intense pressure from airlines to increase production of the 777-300ER, with the first availability for new orders now quoted as 2014.
With more and more carriers parking 747s, pressure is mounting for delivery of 777s, which burn 20% less fuel per passenger.
In November, VP-Sales-Middle East and Africa Martin Bentrott said production was sold out through 2012 with only a few slots available. In just six months, all of the remaining 2012 and all 2013 slots have been snapped up. Boeing has announced sales of 36 777s this year with a significant number of firm commitments yet to be signed.
The company said it is "experiencing unprecedented demand for its commercial airliners and is constantly reviewing the complex process of matching demand with the physical and economic constraints of the production system." Currently it is producing 777s at a rate of 6.6 per month based on 33 deliveries through May 30.
While pleased with that demand, the manufacturer added, "In the past, Boeing, its employees, suppliers and its customers suffered the effects of a breakdown of the production process resulting from efforts to increase production too rapidly. Boeing is determined to produce efficiently through the market cycles going forward. This will allow us to maintain relatively stable employment levels, maintain high levels of quality and keep the residual values of airplanes high to protect our customers' investment in our products."
It continued, "This effort may result in us not being able to meet all customers' requirements in the timeframe they prefer. Ultimately, though, Boeing believes that a disciplined approach to managing production rates is in the best interests of all parties involved."
The company did not respond to a question about the effect of the 787 delay - up to 24 months in some cases - on demand for 777s as replacements for shortfalls in capacity.
Airlines also are waiting for Boeing's response to the A350-1000, which targets the lower end of the 777-300ER market. It stated that it has been waiting for Airbus to define the exact performance of the A350-1000. Last week Airbus briefed customers in Madrid and advised that the maximum takeoff weight of the -1000 is to climb by 2 tons, which may affect some range performance targets.
Wires
argus.moon
The B777 and the B787 aren't assembled on the same line so QF trading some B787 slots won't free up slots on the B777 production line. They are the facts. Sorry to spoil your day and a good rumour.
