SEATTLE – U.S. aerospace giant Boeing will invest $1 billion to expand its 787 Dreamliner manufacturing operations in Charleston County, creating 500 new jobs over the next five years.
The investment targets Boeing South Carolina’s (BSC) existing facilities in North Charleston and Orangeburg and will increase the company’s 787 Dreamliner production capacity.
Boeing 787 production updates
Since founding operations in South Carolina in 2009, Boeing has grown to employ more than 7,800 people across the airport, north campus in North Charleston, and west campus in Orangeburg.
The company recently acquired Orangeburg facilities at 174 Millennium Drive, which are not affected by current expansion plans.
Boeing plans to upgrade its North Charleston campus at 5400 International Blvd. and 9775 Patriot Blvd. To support increased production goals for the 787 Dreamliner. The program aims to meet market demand and increase production to 10 aircraft per month by 2026. The expanded operation is expected to be fully operational in early 2027.
The 787 Dreamliner production cycle, which includes manufacturing, assembly, and worldwide delivery of the 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 models, will continue to be centered in South Carolina.
Scott Stocker, 787 Program Vice President and General Manager and BSC Site Leader, emphasized the strategic importance of the investment. “Since founding Boeing South Carolina in 2009, we have marked important milestones, including consolidating production of the 787 Dreamliner here,” Stocker said. He emphasized that this expansion reflects Boeing’s commitment to its employees, the 787 program, and the community.
Governor Henry McMaster praised the decision, saying the investment “further solidifies South Carolina’s position as a leader in the aerospace industry.” Mr. McMaster emphasized the importance of the 500 new jobs and emphasized the state’s pro-business environment as a key factor in attracting Boeing’s continued investment.
Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III praised Boeing’s accomplishments in the state, calling the $1 billion investment “truly worth celebrating.” This expansion represents a continued vote of confidence in South Carolina’s technological and industrial capabilities.
Charleston County Council President Herbert Ravenel Sass III called Boeing a “cornerstone of economic growth and innovation” for the region. He emphasized that this expansion solidifies Charleston County’s leadership in the global aerospace industry and creates significant opportunities for local residents and businesses.
About SC Commerce
The South Carolina Department of Commerce (SC Commerce) serves as the state’s primary economic development agency and is dedicated to attracting, supporting, and growing business across a variety of industries. The agency’s mission is focused on creating economic opportunities that benefit all South Carolinians through strategic and proactive initiatives.
SC Commerce focuses on recruiting and supporting businesses at all stages of development, from startups to established companies. The agency plays a critical role in helping businesses start, expand and build long-term legacies in the state.
As a key collaborator on SC NEXUS, the Department is leading a consortium of state leaders from government, utilities, higher education, and other key stakeholders. This initiative explores advanced energy opportunities and demonstrates the state’s commitment to innovative economic development.
financial difficulties
Despite the optimistic announcement, Boeing faces significant financial challenges. The company reported a staggering loss of more than $8 billion for the first nine months of this year, $6 billion of which occurred between July and September.
Chief Executive Officer Kelly Ortberg announced in October that the company plans to cut 10% of its U.S. workforce, equating to about 17,000 job cuts.
The investment comes on the heels of the company’s previously announced planned 220 job cuts in South Carolina.
These layoffs follow a seven-week strike by 33,000 unionized machinists on the West Coast, which did not include nonunion workers in South Carolina. Mr. Ortberg attributed the workforce reductions to overstaffing rather than work stoppages.
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