Video: flydubai’s latest 737 takes shape in Boeing’s Renton factory

Walking into aircraft manufacturer Boeing’s 737 production facility in Renton would be a dream for any aviation buff since the site has been home to many of its most popular airplanes such as the 707, 727 and 757.

The facility, which includes 4.3m square feet of building space, is also set to soon begin producing Boeing’s new 737 MAX airplanes.

Among GCC airlines, flydubai is a loyal 737 customer, having ordered 50 airplanes in 2008. The low cost carrier also placed a record $11.4bn order for 100 737 MAX aircraft – including 75 firm orders – and 11 Next-Generation Boeing 737-800s during the Dubai Airshow in 2013.

As the airline gets ready to receive its 49th airplane from Boeing this year, Gulf Business got a rare chance to visit the factory and step into the aircraft as it gets assembled prior to delivery.

Here’s a glimpse of what we saw. (Story continues after video)

The 737 is currently the fastest aircraft in terms of production time, with the Renton facility assembling 42 airplanes every month. From the time a fuselage enters the building, it takes 10 days to complete an aircraft.

Officials say they are looking at improving operational capabilities to further reduce manufacturing time and produce airplanes faster and more efficiently.

Alongside the Renton site, Boeing also has its 737 Configuration Studio and a Customer Experience Centre, which provide potential and existing customers with additional support and services.

The 737 NG has received 6,869 firm orders from 138 customers as of April 30, 2015, with 5,382 deliveries completed so far.

The new 737 MAX has outperformed its predecessor, receiving 2,724 firm orders since its launch in December 2011 and becoming the best-selling in Boeing’s history.