Boeing began production of the first 777-8 Freighter, the aerospace industry’s largest and most capable twin-engine freighter, in Everett, Washington.
Approximately 100 employees at Boeing’s 777X Composite Spar Shop cheered as operator Casey McDowell drilled the first hole for the 777-8 Freighter. “You don’t forget these moments,” McDowell said. “Having our team together as we got underway on this airplane was special.” The first hole was drilled into the wing spar, a 108-foot composite beam, which marks Boeing’s traditional start of production on its airplane models.
The 777-8 Freighter was launched in 2022 and Boeing is working to deliver the first airplane in 2028. Since launch, airlines and cargo operators have already ordered nearly 60 airplanes. The 777-8 Freighter is the newest member in the 777X family, which also includes the widebody 777-9 and 777-8 passenger airplanes.
Automation Manager Robin Thorning has been with The Boeing Company for 38 years and witnessed the beginning of the exciting new generation of 777X. “I helped build the very first 777 – WA001 – early in my career, and it’s exciting to get to start our newest member of the 777X family,” said Thorning. “To touch these incredible airplanes and help bring them to life is a privilege and really a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. We take our work seriously as we continue to drive to build safe and more-efficient airplanes.”
For Thorning, this important moment is part of a generational legacy in his family. Together, his father, son and daughter share nearly 100 years of service at Boeing. When the Composite Spar Shop team completes their work, the spars will be sent to the main factory where they’ll be assembled into the first 777-8 Freighter wings with the Composite Wing Center panels and other components.
As the market leader in freighter airplanes, Boeing provides more than 90% of the worldwide freighter capacity. From vaccines to electronics to fresh food and more, freighter airplanes allow for the efficient transport of high-value, time-critical goods around the world.
The 777-8 Freighter offers the highest payload and the lowest operating cost per tonne of any large freighter, with 30% better fuel efficiency and emissions than the airplanes it will replace.
