Boeing Restarts 787 Assembly Work

Feb 2, 2009
By Guy Norris



Boeing has officially resumed 787 assembly, an event marked on Jan. 29 by the join of the fuselage and wings for the fifth flight-test aircraft, ZA005.

This is also the first to be powered with General Electric GEnx-1B engines, the first four being powered by the Rolls-Royce Trent 1000. “This airplane signifies our return to a steady production rhythm,” says Jack Jones, VP of 787 Final Assembly and Change Incorporation.

Jones also comments that parts are finally starting to arrive from the supply partners in the state that Boeing had originally planned for. “Sections are arriving in Everett at the completion levels committed by our partners and close to what is expected for mature production,” Jones said. “The substantial progress made by our partners streamlines the assembly process, which is essential as we ramp up production.”

Boeing also confirms that power was restored earlier this week to the first flight-test aircraft, ZA001, and production testing has resumed in preparation for first flight sometime “in the second quarter.”

The airframer also adds that Rolls-Royce engines “are hung on ZA002, in the fourth and final production position in the factory. The third and fourth flight-test airplanes, ZA003 and ZA004, are in the third and second production positions, respectively.”

The troublesome fastener rework issue that stalled the line in the midst of last year’s machinists’ strike is also coming to a close, adds Jones. “Rework is done on ZA001, nearly complete on ZA002 and progressing well on the third and fourth airplanes.” Boeing adds that parts for 30 787s are now in production.

Photo: Darren Shannon