Extended Life for the Boeing 767

Like many in the state, we believed that when Boeing lost the tanker contract it meant the end of the line for the 767. Yesterday, the Herald of Everett brought word of silver linings.

... analyst Scott Hamilton, with Leeham Co., believes Boeing's defense loss is the company's commercial gain as Boeing tries to appease airlines waiting for its delayed 787 Dreamliner jet.

"I think, in many respects, Boeing is in a better position having lost the tanker contract because it frees up a lot of capacity," Hamilton said.

That's the kind of line that can sometimes provoke a bit of eye-rolling, but the numbers back him up.

Although Boeing hasn't seen a 767 order for more than a year, as recently as last month, company officials have said they continue to see interest in the jet.

... Hamilton says it will take Boeing until 2010 to get its 767 supplier base in line to increase production. That's still two years before the company will be up to speed on the 787, if Boeing hits no additional delays.

"We are seeing a lot of demand, including for the 767, where we can't in all cases meet our customers' desired positions," said Boeing's spokeswoman, Leslie Hazzard, in an e-mailed statement. "In many areas, including the 767, we may look at increasing rates to support our customers.

And today the Herald carries an editorial reminding readers of the positive effects of the controversial aerospace incentive package.