Japan-based Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing has opened its new aerospace division at its current site in Lincoln, US, in a ceremony attended by Nebraska governor Pete Ricketts.

Marking the first aerostructures production line of Kawasaki in the US, the new facility will initially produce cargo door for Boeing’s new 777x aircraft. 

Part of Boeing’s 777 family aircraft, the first 777x is scheduled to be delivered by 2020.

Governor Ricketts said: “Kawasaki’s continued investment in Nebraska is helping to grow our state with great opportunities.

“Kawasaki’s decision to expand operations in Nebraska demonstrates our competitive position in the global economy and the importance of international trade missions to bringing investment to Nebraska. 

“These new jobs and investment will help grow the Nebraska economy and bring new good-paying opportunities to Lincoln.”

“Kawasaki’s continued investment in Nebraska is helping to grow our state with great opportunities."

In order to produce the 777X cargo door at its new Lincoln factory, Kawasaki will use an automated riveting machine and an in-house developed painting robot to improve the automation and speed of production, as well as ensure high-quality and efficient production.

Kawasaki also develops and manufactures forward and mid-fuselage panels, main landing gear wells and pressure bulkheads for the 777X. 

Once completed, the Boeing 777X will be the largest and most efficient twin-engine aircraft in the world.

The cabin interior of the aircraft is inspired by Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner family of aircraft and includes larger windows, a wider cabin, new lighting and improved architecture.