For the fourth time since 1997, Boeing has rolled out its 777 jetliner at the rate of seven per month.

The airplane, a freighter, will deliver to FedEx Express in June.

The Boeing programme earlier built at this rate from July 1997 to February 1998, August 1998 to October 1999 and most recently from November 2006 to May 2010.

“This rate increase reflects the strong demand for the 777. It continues to be the clear leader in the 300-400 passenger seat market,” said Larry Loftis, 777 vice president and general manager.

“We were prepared, thorough and disciplined as we have increased our production rate from five to seven.”

“Our customers are eager to buy more 777s and the airplane has rightly earned the reputation as the market leader. Now, our job is to deliver," he added.

The 777 programme received 48 new orders through April 2011, and has a backlog of more than 280 airplanes.

In first quarter 2013 the program will again increase rate from seven to 8.3 airplanes per month –100 airplanes per year – an all-time high, Boeing said in a statement. – TradeArabia News Service