Boeing begins 787 Dreamliner expansion at North Charleston facility

Boeing has turned dirt on its 1.2 million-square-foot expansion, planning to employ over 2,500 people throughout the construction process at its North Charleston facility.

The Boeing South Carolina location is home to the 787 Dreamliner program, which it plans to expand to produce 10 airplanes per month in 2026, according to a news release. The company has invested $1 billion into the infrastructure and plans to create 1,000 more jobs over the next five years following the construction.  

“We continue to see strong demand for the 787 Dreamliner family and its market-leading efficiency and versatility. We are making this significant investment today to ensure Boeing is ready to meet our customer’s needs in the years and decades ahead,” Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said in the release. “This site expansion is a testament to the incredible work of our Boeing teammates and deepens our commitment to them, to South Carolina, and to American manufacturing.” 

The Boeing site expansion will include a final assembly building with airplane production positions, production support and office space. According to the release, the construction will also include additions to the Interiors Responsibility Center, where the 787 Dreamliner’s interior components are produced. 

Once completed, the expansion is expected to take 6.2 million hours of construction which will be led by HITT Contracting and BE&K Building Group, according to the release. 

“Boeing’s continued investment in South Carolina is a tremendous vote of confidence in our state’s people and business climate,” Gov. Henry McMaster said in the release. “This $1 billion expansion and the creation of 1,000 new jobs will strengthen our position as a global leader in aerospace and advanced manufacturing. We are grateful for Boeing’s partnership and commitment to the Lowcountry, which will bring new opportunities and economic prosperity across our state.” 

According to the release, the 787 Dreamliners have a backlog of about 1,000 airplanes. Overall, Boeing’s Commercials Market Outlook said the company is expected to need 7,800 new 787 aircrafts in the next 20 years.  

After about 16 years of production, the South Carolina facilities employs more than 8,200 people producing Dreamliner models 787-8, 787-9 and 787-10, according to the release.  

“Boeing’s decision to dramatically increase production capability of the 787 in Charleston is the ultimate vote of confidence for the South Carolina workforce,” Sen. Lindsey Graham said in the release. “I’m so pleased that Boeing is putting its money where its mouth is when it comes to South Carolina. The Boeing employees in our state have proven that they are worth the investment. This expanded production will create more jobs and ensure the viability of Boeing in South Carolina for decades to come.” 

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