Boeing begins production on new cargo aircraft with key milestone

Boeing has achieved a significant milestone in the production of its new cargo aircraft, the 777-8F. The first hole was drilled into the wing spar of this next-generation widebody cargo jet, marking the official start of major assembly. Casey McDowell, who drilled the hole, expressed his excitement about beginning work on this airplane with his team.

The 777-8F is part of Boeing's 777X family, which includes passenger variants like the 777-8 and 777-9. Automation Manager Robin Thorning shared her enthusiasm for working on the latest addition to the family, recalling her experience with earlier models: "I helped build the very first 777, WA001, early in my career...To touch these incredible airplanes and help bring them to life is a privilege."

The wing spars of the 777-8F are crucial components, each spanning over 100 feet in length and weighing approximately 2,500 lbs per pair. These structures serve as the skeleton of the wings and require extensive materials for their fabrication. Boeing uses around 392 miles of carbon fiber tape to create these components.