Boeing increases pace of Dreamliner production amid global demand

For the first half of 2025, Boeing delivered an estimated 45 Dreamliners. The company plans to increase production rates: “According to Flight Plan, Boeing plans to ramp up production of the 787 to seven aircraft monthly by the end of 2025.” At that rate, annual output would be about 84 aircraft per year. Leeham News reported on a $1 billion expansion at Boeing’s Charleston facility that will double final assembly line capacity for the model by completion in 2028, enabling potential future production rates as high as sixteen per month or roughly 192 planes annually.

One challenge facing current deliveries involves Lufthansa’s Allegris seating configuration lacking FAA certification. As a result, some already-built jets remain undelivered.

The popularity among variants is shifting away from the original model: new orders are focused on the larger and longer-range versions. Only eight new orders for the smaller 787-8 have been placed since 2020, with most remaining open orders attributed to Emirates.

Looking ahead, production is expected to recover further by 2028, although trade disputes continue to present risks. There have been recent developments affecting international sales—China banned its airlines from accepting new Boeings earlier this year but may place significant new orders soon.

In summary, while annual production rates are still below pre-pandemic levels and subject to ongoing regulatory and geopolitical uncertainties, Boeing is investing heavily in expanding capacity and expects output growth over coming years.