Boeing's Everett Factory in Washington state is the largest building in the world by volume, covering 472 million cubic feet (13.3 million cubic metres). Built to construct the iconic 747 jumbo jet, the facility now produces the 767, 777 and 787 models.
The factory, which opened in 1967, sits on a 97.8-acre (39-hectare) site near Seattle. It has its own fire station, medical services, and a fleet of 1,300 bicycles to help workers get around. Each shift employs up to 10,000 people, with three shifts running around the clock.
David Reese, who manages factory tours, says the building is so vast that 13 Wembley Stadiums could fit inside its volume. Despite its size, there is no air conditioning; in summer, massive doors are opened to let in the breeze, while in winter the heat from lights, equipment and workers keeps temperatures moderate.
Visitors must wear safety glasses and closed-toe shoes at all times. The factory continues to produce a dwindling number of 747 freighters, but focuses mainly on smaller airliners.
