777X cwc

Boeing has started construction on a new $1bn composite wing centre for twin-aisle 777X at its facility in Everett, Washington, US.

The 1,000,000ft² plant received approvals earlier than anticipated, leading the way for construction to begin, the company said.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes president and CEO Ray Conner said: "We’re excited with the progress being made on this new facility that will play a crucial role in bringing the 777X to market."

Located to the north of the main final assembly building, the composite wing centre will be engaged in composite wing fabrication for the 777X airliner.

"The plant received approvals earlier than anticipated, leading the way for construction to begin."

It will require 31,000t of steel, 480 miles of electrical cable, 24,384m of process piping, 405,210m³ of fill material and 170,000t of concrete.

Work on the centre is expected to be complete in May 2016. The project will create around 1,200 contract jobs.

The 777X is built on the existing 777 platform, and will be available in two variants, 777-8X and 777-9X, which can accommodate around 350 and 400 passengers respectively.

Boeing has received 300 orders and commitments for 777X to date and intends to begin deliveries in 2020.

The latest news after Boeing said it will commence in-house production of components for the 777X aircraft at its St Louis composites plant in Missouri.

Image: An artistic view of the exterior of the wing centre. Photo: courtesy of Boeing.

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