FAA approves Boeing 737 MAX output rise to 47 jets

Boeing has received regulatory approval to increase production of its 737 MAX aircraft, a key step in the company's ongoing financial and operational recovery. The Federal Aviation Administration has authorized the planemaker to manufacture 47 of the jets per month, up from a previous limit of 42. CEO Kelly Ortberg, speaking at an investor conference on Wednesday, outlined ambitions to push production beyond 50 jets monthly in the near term, with a long-range goal of exceeding 60.

The FAA's decision follows a capstone review of Boeing's production lines and safety systems. The agency had previously capped monthly production at 38 jets in early 2024 following a midair door plug incident on an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9. FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said the agency is comfortable with the increase to 47 and anticipates further rate hikes in the coming months, emphasizing that Boeing's success is important for the country.

Increasing 737 MAX output is central to Boeing's strategy to improve profitability and generate cash. The company delivered 600 aircraft in 2025, a significant increase from 348 deliveries in 2024, though still below its 2018 peak of over 800. Analysts project...