Boeing is close to completing assembly of the first Boeing 737-800 fuselage at its Wichita, Kansas plant. Following the application of final protective finishes, the 39.5m-long body will be shipped by rail to the company's Renton, Washington, factory for final assembly. The first 737-800, the largest member of the next-generation 737 family, is due to be rolled out in June, with first flight due the following month and certification early in 1998.

Source: Flight International