Boeing to resume commercial aircraft production in Puget Sound

Boeing announced on Thursday afternoon that it will be resuming all commercial aircraft production in its Puget Sound facilities.

This news comes less than a month after the temporary suspension of production areas due to the ongoing health crisis.

The reopening of the production facility will result in the return of 27,000 workers.

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Boeing is hoping to get five programs back up and running, which support critical global transportation infrastructure, cargo services, national defense, and security missions.

“The health and safety of our employees, their families, and communities is our shared priority,” said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes and senior executive in the Pacific Northwest, in a press release. “This phased approach ensures we have a reliable supply base, our personal protective equipment is readily available, and we have all of the necessary safety measures in place to resume essential work for our customers.”

Those working on the 737, 747, 767 and 777 programs will return as early as the third shift on April 20, with most returning to work by April 21. Employees working on the 787 program will return as early as the third shift April 23, with most returning to work by April 24.

The company will continue implementing enhanced cleaning practices while ensuring that employees continue practicing social distancing measures.

Earlier this week, Boeing restarted mostly defense production operations in the region, which impacted approximately 2,500 employees.