January 14, 2026

Charleston’s Aerospace Sector Expands with Boeing’s Delivery Surge

Charleston SC, January 14, 2026

Charleston’s aerospace sector is witnessing significant growth as Boeing reports its highest annual commercial jet deliveries since 2018. This revival showcases a strong operational recovery, spurred by private investment and a skilled workforce, contributing positively to the Charleston County economy. With plans for a $1 billion expansion that will create new jobs, Boeing’s resurgence is expected to foster local entrepreneurship and innovation, creating a more dynamic economic landscape in the Lowcountry.

Charleston’s Aerospace Sector Soars as Boeing Rebounds with Strongest Deliveries Since 2018

In a powerful demonstration of industrial resilience and strategic growth, Charleston’s vital aerospace sector is experiencing a significant uplift. Boeing, a cornerstone of the Charleston SC business landscape, recently announced its highest annual commercial jet deliveries since 2018, signaling a robust turnaround and reinforcing the economic dynamism of the Lowcountry. This resurgence underscores the benefits of sustained private investment and a skilled workforce, contributing significantly to the broader Charleston County economy.

This positive trajectory highlights themes of entrepreneurial innovation and personal achievement that define the spirit of South Carolina entrepreneurs. The expansion of major industry players like Boeing often creates ripple effects, fostering a fertile environment for Charleston small business growth and driving overall Lowcountry economic growth. As the aerospace giant streamlines its operations and increases output, the local economy stands to gain from enhanced job opportunities and increased demand for supporting services and suppliers.

A Remarkable Turnaround in Deliveries

Boeing delivered 600 commercial aircraft in 2025, marking its most substantial annual delivery total since 2018. This achievement represents a remarkable 72% increase in deliveries compared to the previous year, showcasing a significant operational recovery. The company’s performance reflects its dedication to overcoming past challenges and meeting the escalating global demand for air travel. Key models contributing to this surge included 447 of the 737 MAX family aircraft and 88 of the 787 Dreamliners. Notably, the 88 Dreamliner deliveries represent the highest number for this widebody jet since 2019.

This resurgence extends beyond deliveries, as Boeing also reported strong new orders. In 2025, the company secured 1,173 new aircraft sales, a figure that surpassed European rival Airbus, which recorded 889 net new orders for the year. This achievement marks Boeing’s sixth-highest annual total for adjusted net orders and reflects a renewed confidence from the market in the planemaker’s capabilities.

North Charleston: A Global Hub for Aerospace Manufacturing

The North Charleston facility plays a crucial role in Boeing’s global operations and is a significant driver of the state’s aerospace industry. The Charleston site is one of only three locations worldwide assembling and delivering wide-body jets, and it holds the distinction of being the exclusive manufacturer of Boeing’s 787-10 Dreamliner. This specialization highlights the high level of skill and advanced manufacturing capabilities present in the region.

To further bolster its production capabilities and meet future demand, Boeing has initiated a substantial $1 billion expansion project at its 787 Dreamliner production facilities in North Charleston. This significant investment is projected to create 500 new jobs over the next five years, further expanding Boeing’s South Carolina workforce to over 8,300 individuals. Other reports indicate the potential for more than 1,000 new, high-quality jobs over the same period, alongside employing over 2,500 construction workers during the building phase of the expansion.

Economic Momentum and Job Creation Across South Carolina

Boeing’s continued investment and operational success have a profound economic impact extending far beyond the factory floor. The company’s presence in South Carolina has been instrumental in boosting local wages by 3% and overall employment by 6% within the Charleston Metropolitan Area. On a broader scale, the aerospace industry in South Carolina contributes more than $38 billion annually to the state’s economy and supports over 143,000 jobs.

The state’s aerospace sector is recognized as one of the fastest-growing nationwide, experiencing an employment increase of over 21% between 2018 and 2024. This robust growth is supported by a workforce with a higher concentration of aerospace manufacturing employees compared to the national average. Such figures underscore the importance of fostering a business-friendly environment and investing in workforce development programs that equip residents with the specialized skills needed for advanced manufacturing.

Nurturing Local Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Charleston’s economic landscape is not solely defined by large corporations but also by a vibrant ecosystem of innovation and entrepreneurship. The city has emerged as a hub for new businesses, with a growing number of startups spanning various industries, including life sciences, software, hospitality, and manufacturing. Charleston’s commitment to fostering this environment was recognized when it was selected for the City Innovation Ecosystem Resource Mapping program, an initiative designed to bolster regional entrepreneurship.

Local leaders and organizations are actively investing in resources to help entrepreneurs thrive, acknowledging that innovation is crucial for creating value and driving business growth. This collaborative spirit, combined with a focus on a talented workforce and high quality of life, positions Charleston as an attractive location for those looking to launch and scale new ventures. The growth of established companies like Boeing often creates opportunities for smaller, innovative firms to emerge as suppliers, service providers, and technology partners, contributing to a diverse and resilient local economy.

A Future of Continued Growth for the Lowcountry

The resurgence of Boeing’s jet deliveries and its ongoing investments in North Charleston provide a clear indication of continued economic momentum for the Lowcountry and South Carolina. This success is a testament to the dedication of local businesses and employees, the strategic vision of industry leaders, and a supportive economic climate that encourages growth and innovation. As Boeing continues to ramp up production and meet global demand, the ripple effects are expected to generate further opportunities for job creation, private investment, and entrepreneurial success across the region.

Residents are encouraged to engage with and support the diverse businesses that contribute to Charleston’s dynamic economy. By staying informed about local economic developments and actively participating in community initiatives, individuals can play a vital role in shaping a prosperous future for the Lowcountry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Boeing’s annual commercial jet delivery total in 2025?

Boeing delivered 600 commercial aircraft in 2025.

How does Boeing’s 2025 delivery total compare to previous years?

The 600 commercial aircraft delivered in 2025 represent Boeing’s highest annual delivery total since 2018.

What types of aircraft were primarily delivered by Boeing in 2025?

In 2025, Boeing’s deliveries included 447 737 MAX family aircraft and 88 787 Dreamliners.

Is Boeing making any significant investments in its North Charleston, South Carolina facilities?

Yes, Boeing has initiated a $1 billion expansion project for its 787 Dreamliner production facilities in North Charleston, South Carolina.

How many new jobs are expected to be created by Boeing’s expansion in North Charleston, South Carolina?

The expansion project in North Charleston, South Carolina, is expected to create 500 new jobs over the next five years.

What is the annual economic contribution of the aerospace industry to South Carolina’s economy?

The aerospace industry in South Carolina contributes more than $38 billion annually to the state’s economy.

How many jobs does the aerospace industry support in South Carolina?

The aerospace industry in South Carolina supports over 143,000 jobs.

Key Features of Boeing’s Turnaround and Charleston’s Aerospace Sector

Feature	Detail	Geographic Scope
2025 Commercial Jet Deliveries	600 aircraft, highest since 2018	Nationwide
Delivery Increase (YoY)	72% jump compared to previous year	Nationwide
Key Aircraft Delivered (2025)	447 737 MAX family, 88 787 Dreamliners	Nationwide
787 Dreamliner Deliveries (since 2019)	88, highest since 2019	Nationwide
New Aircraft Orders (2025)	1,173 new sales, surpassing a rival	Nationwide
North Charleston Investment	$1 billion expansion project	State-level (South Carolina)
New Jobs from Expansion	500 new jobs over five years	State-level (South Carolina)
Boeing South Carolina Workforce	Over 8,300 employees post-expansion	State-level (South Carolina)
Aerospace Industry Economic Contribution (SC)	Over $38 billion annually	State-level (South Carolina)
Aerospace Industry Jobs (SC)	Over 143,000 jobs supported	State-level (South Carolina)
Charleston’s Role in 787 Production	Exclusive manufacturer of 787-10	Local (Charleston)