Boeing May Boost Production Rate for 787s

Boeing Co. said it might increase the rate at which it makes the new 787 Dreamliner to meet rising demand for the fuel-efficient aircraft.

Demand has surged for fuel-saving planes such as the 787 amid soaring oil prices. Boeing is counting on the 787 to recoup market share from Toulouse, France-based Airbus.

Boeing now forecasts a production rate for 787 models at 7 aircraft a month, an executive said. Boeing has announced orders and commitments for 293 787 planes.