key term - Renton Assembly Plant

Definition

The Renton Assembly Plant is a significant manufacturing facility operated by Boeing, located in Renton, Washington. This plant plays a critical role in the production of commercial aircraft, particularly the Boeing 737, which is one of the best-selling jetliners in aviation history. The plant not only reflects Boeing's extensive operations in Washington State but also showcases the company's influence on the local economy and the aerospace industry as a whole.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Renton Assembly Plant has been operational since 1941, initially producing military aircraft before transitioning to commercial aircraft manufacturing.
2. The facility is known for its advanced manufacturing techniques and has incorporated lean manufacturing principles to enhance efficiency.
3. In addition to the Boeing 737, the plant has been involved in producing other models such as the Boeing 707 and Boeing 727 throughout its history.
4. The Renton Assembly Plant employs thousands of workers, making it a significant contributor to the local economy in Washington State.
5. The plant's production capabilities allow it to manufacture multiple 737 aircraft each month, reflecting the high demand for this model in the aviation market.

Review Questions

• How does the Renton Assembly Plant contribute to Boeing's overall production strategy?
  • The Renton Assembly Plant is integral to Boeing's production strategy as it focuses specifically on manufacturing the Boeing 737, a key product that generates significant revenue for the company. The plant utilizes advanced technologies and lean manufacturing principles to optimize production efficiency, which helps Boeing meet market demands effectively. Additionally, having a dedicated facility for this popular model allows Boeing to streamline operations and maintain high-quality standards.
• Discuss the economic impact of the Renton Assembly Plant on the local community in Washington State.
  • The Renton Assembly Plant has a profound economic impact on the local community by providing thousands of jobs directly within the facility and creating additional employment opportunities in related industries. Its operations contribute significantly to the regional economy through wages paid to workers and through contracts with local suppliers for parts and services. The success of the plant also fosters community development initiatives, enhancing infrastructure and public services as the workforce grows.
• Evaluate how advancements in manufacturing technology at the Renton Assembly Plant could shape future trends in the aerospace industry.
  • Advancements in manufacturing technology at the Renton Assembly Plant, such as automation and lean manufacturing techniques, are likely to influence future trends across the aerospace industry by setting new benchmarks for efficiency and productivity. As Boeing implements innovative solutions to streamline operations and reduce costs, competitors may be compelled to adopt similar technologies to remain viable. Furthermore, these advancements can lead to enhanced safety standards and improved environmental sustainability practices within aerospace manufacturing, positioning companies better within an increasingly competitive market.

Related terms

Boeing 737:

A narrow-body airliner developed and manufactured by Boeing, which has become one of the most popular and widely used commercial aircraft in aviation.

Aerospace Industry: The sector that encompasses the development and production of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems and equipment, playing a vital role in global transportation and defense.

Lean Manufacturing: A production practice that considers the expenditure of resources in any aspect other than the direct creation of value for the end customer to be wasteful and thus a target for elimination.