New Boeing Plant Update

The new Boeing 7E7 plant is one of the most hotly pursued ED projects nationwide. Communities and states are hungry for a big deal, given the drought of business investment projects over the past three years. Everyone is looking for a "big" deal, and Boeing knows it. With a June 20 deadline approaching for communities to submit bids, several states are finalizing proposals on their advantages and financial incentives.

As communities around the country dream up tax breaks and financial sweeteners to persuade Boeing to build its next new jet in their states, there is one element missing in the 7E7 sweepstakes: the guarantee that Boeing will actually build the jet at all.

Chicago-based Boeing has been soliciting bids from states around the country who want to host the new factory where the proposed, mid-sized fuel-efficient jet would be built. The jet factory would mean about 800 to 1,200 direct jobs in assembly and support.

But all these proposals come months before Boeing's board of directors will make the most crucial decision - whether to proceed with the first all-new jet since the 777. The 7E7 is due to go before the Boeing board for approval in late 2003 or early 2004. Provided it is authorized, Boeing would officially launch the program in 2004 and offer the jet to airline customers.

Look for this one to get crazier as the deadline approaches.

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