Boeing is looking to get the green light for boosting production of the 737 MAX significantly in 2025, following recent approval from U.S. authorities to ramp up output of the 787 model, according to the company’s CEO.

Kelly Ortberg mentioned that they could secure U.S. approval to enhance MAX production in the middle and late parts of 2025, which has positively impacted stock prices.

Recently, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) permitted Boeing to increase their 787 Dreamliner manufacturing from five to seven planes per month, Ortberg stated during a financial conference.

He explained that the FAA’s review process for the MAX production increase would follow the same procedure as the one used for the 787. “I’m feeling quite optimistic; we’ve had thorough discussions with the FAA to ensure we’re on the same page,” he said.

Currently, the FAA limits the production of the MAX to 38 planes monthly. This heightened scrutiny came after a January 2024 incident where a window panel blew out mid-flight on an Alaska Airlines aircraft.

This situation is the most notable incident involving a MAX aircraft since the two crashes in 2018 and 2019, which led to various lawsuits and government investigations.

Ortberg was brought on board at Boeing last August during a leadership transition. Increasing aircraft production is crucial for restoring Boeing’s profitability after a streak of losses.

He is aiming for FAA approval to increase the MAX production to 42 planes by mid-year, which could pave the way for approval up to 47 planes by the end of 2025, although he clarified that the actual production wouldn’t reach that level immediately.

“However, we’re not going to rush it if we’re not prepared. We must meet key performance indicators to progress, and we won’t know our position until we attempt it,” Ortberg stated.

He also noted that Boeing is on track to finalize FAA certification for the 777X as well as new variants of the 737 MAX.

Speaking on tariffs, Ortberg reiterated that the primary concern lies with potential retaliation from trade partners rather than the direct impact of tariffs on manufacturing supplies.

He highlighted that China has lifted its ban on accepting Boeing planes following an easing of tensions in the trade relationship between the U.S. and China. “First deliveries will start next month for Chinese airlines,” he added.

Boeing’s shares rose by 4.4% during morning trading.