Aerial warfare revolution: US moves to deploy robot wingmen; India developing CATS Warrior

Boeing said it will invest $1 billion to add a new “North Line” final assembly line for 737 MAX jets at its Everett, Washington facility. The expansion is intended to support demand and a backlog of over 4,300 orders as of May and target 52 aircraft per month. Assembly will use a split process with components built in Renton.

Boeing opened a new 737 MAX production line in Everett, investing $1 billion to increase output while addressing a backlog of about 4,300 aircraft. The upgraded site is expected to raise 737 production to 52 per month from 47. Boeing aims for FAA certification of 737 MAX 7 and 10 by year end; Delta ordered 100 MAX-10.

Ryanair said a Boeing 737 NG flight from Thessaloniki to Memmingen returned to Thessaloniki after a passenger window dislodged shortly after takeoff. A passenger was partially sucked through the window and taken to hospital; injuries were not life-threatening, according to Serbia’s consulate. The FAA confirmed the aircraft type and a broken window; Boeing said it is assisting the investigation.

Boeing will expand 737 MAX production at its North Line site in Everett, Washington, via a gradual ramp-up. Boeing says the Everett line will help raise MAX output from 47 aircraft per month to 52, with a longer-term goal of 63 or more, subject to FAA oversight. Boeing is training about 1,000 staff and is still working on 737 MAX 10 certification.

Boeing began building 737 MAX aircraft on its new North Line in Everett, turning on the fourth MAX production line and the first outside Renton. Boeing said the $1 billion Everett investment will raise output toward 47 MAX per month, with FAA certification needed before deliveries. Initial production starts with 737 MAX 10s for WestJet, then MAX 8s.

Ryanair said a Boeing 737 window dislodged inflight shortly after takeoff from Thessaloniki, Greece, forcing an emergency return and landing. A passenger was injured, with reports of a near-suction incident and friction burns. Ryanair arranged a replacement aircraft to fly passengers to Germany. The cause was not detailed.