Reuters: Boeing 777 Freighter Production Had Not Restarted After Vaero Settlement

Three Boeing workers told Reuters that 777 Freighter production had not restarted after Boeing and Vaero settled their dispute in late September. Reuters reported the dispute involved trailing-edge rib kits used to assemble wings for the 767 and current-generation 777 Freighter.

Key details

• Boeing's court complaint alleged that Vaero stopped supplying the kits and was Boeing's only source. Reuters reported that Boeing estimated the disruption could cost up to $6.5 million per day.
• Reuters reported that the dispute also affected 767 and KC-46 production. One worker said the 767 line had received some parts after the settlement.
• Reuters reported that Boeing removed two partly assembled 777 Freighters from its final assembly line. The report identified one as intended for FedEx, citing IBA data.
• Reuters said Boeing was attempting to produce the kits in-house but gave no timing for when that production might begin or reach volume.
• Reuters reported a September 2026 backlog of 38 777 Freighters. Two deliveries that month were offset by a new two-aircraft order from Ethiopian Airlines Cargo.
• The article said Boeing had recorded six 777 Freighter orders in 2026, attributed to China Airlines, China Southern Cargo and Ethiopian Airlines Cargo.
• Reuters reported that the FAA had granted Boeing an exemption to certify up to 35 additional 777 Freighters from 2028 through 2030.

Why it matters

The 777 Freighter production pause touches a program with a reported backlog of 38 aircraft and customers including FedEx and Ethiopian Airlines Cargo. The dispute also involved parts used on the 767 and KC-46 production lines, according to Reuters.

What happens next

Boeing's reported target for the 777-8F to enter service is 2029; Reuters said some customers expect the date could be 2030. The report gave no timeline for Boeing's in-house rib-kit production or for restarting 777 Freighter production.