Boeing is raising 737 output further, to 42 a month by the first half of 2014, as it works through a backlog of 2,100 aircraft.

The airframer already plans to increase production at its Renton, Washington facility from 31.5 to 35 a month by early 2012, followed by a boost to 38 in the second quarter of 2013.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes chief Jim Albaugh said customers were demanding 737s at an "unprecedented rate". Eighty percent of the backlog will feature the company's new Sky Interior cabin.

The airframer manages 737 production across two primary lines, the first with capability of 21 a month and the second with a capacity of 10 a month. To meet the 2013 target of 38, the smaller line will expand to match the first.

Boeing 737 vice-president and general manager Beverly Wyse said: "We believe that many of the capital investments and production system changes made for 38 airplanes per month will already position us to build 42."

Source: Flight International