FLEET - Singapore Airlines in talks for 50 widebody jets

Singapore Airlines (SQ, Singapore Changi) is in discussions with Airbus and Boeing over a potential order for at least 50 widebody aircraft as it prepares for future growth beyond the end of the decade, Reuters reported on June 4, citing two industry sources familiar with the matter.

The carrier has reportedly requested proposals for B777-9s and A350-1000s. It already has thirty of the former on order, while the A350-1000, if ordered, would be a new type. The sources said the talks remain at an early stage and could include options for dozens more aircraft.

Singapore Airlines is an existing operator of both the A350 and B777 families and was an early customer for the B777X programme, with 30 units on order.

It operates fifty-eight A350-900s, seven A350-900(ULR)s, twelve A380-800s, twenty-three B737-8s, twenty-two B777-300ERs, and twenty-eight B787-10s. It also has a cargo fleet comprising seven B747-400FSCDs and five B777-200Fs. Its outstanding orders include seven A350Fs, three more B737-8s, thirty B777-9s, and three more B787-10s.

The airline and the two OEMs declined to comment, but the carrier previously said that it would continue expanding capacity despite higher oil prices that have led some competitors to reduce services.

Industry sources told Reuters that the talks with Singapore Airlines may also provide Airbus and Boeing with insights into demand for larger future aircraft variants. Airbus said in 2025 that it was studying a larger A350 derivative, widely referred to as the A350-2000, although it has downplayed suggestions that a launch decision is imminent.

Boeing also revisited studies for a larger B777X variant after Emirates placed additional B777X orders in November 2025. The manufacturer is said to remain cautious about launching a larger aircraft because of limited demand and its focus on restoring production stability across existing programmes.

CH Aviation / Photo: Dunacn Stewart

FLEET - China Airlines confirms expansion of 777-8F

China Airlines (Taiwan) will acquire 16 aircraft:

5 A350-1000s, 

5 B777-9

4 B777-8F

2 B777F. 

The carrier also plans to sell four B747-400F

 

 

DUBAI AIR SHOW - ORDER - Emirates Orders 65 More Boeing 777X Airplanes

• Largest 777X customer grows 777X order book to 270 jets
• 
  
• Order for 65 777-9s supports the airline's expansion amid growing travel demand

DUBAI, UAE, Nov. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire(opens in a new tab)/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Emirates announced today the world's largest international airline has placed its third order for 777X airplanes to fuel future expansion and meet growing travel demand. The new order for 65 777-9 passenger jets was announced during a signing at the Dubai Airshow.

Emirates, which has grown its global network with the Boeing 777 as its flagship, is one of the launch customers for the new 777X family and placed two previous orders totaling 205 airplanes. The new purchase brings Emirates' 777X order – consisting of the 777-9 and 777-8 models – to 270 airplanes, further cementing its position as the largest 777X customer.

"Emirates is already the world's largest Boeing 777 operator, and we are expanding our commitment to the program today with additional orders for 65 Boeing 777-9s," said HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive, Emirates Airline and Group. "This is a long-term commitment to our partnership with Boeing and to U.S. aerospace."

"Each of our aircraft on order have been carefully factored into Emirates' growth plan, which is aligned to Dubai's growth plans," Al Maktoum continued.

Building on the success of the 777, the 777-9 will be the world's largest twin-engine jet and set new standards in efficiency and passenger experience. The 777-9 will reduce fuel use and emissions by 20% compared to the airplanes it replaces. Passengers will travel comfortably with a wider, more spacious cabin, better humidity levels, a smoother ride and more natural light.

"We are deeply honored that Emirates has once again selected the Boeing 777X to power its future as the airline refreshes its world-class fleet and expands its vaunted global network," said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Boeing has been a proud supporter of Emirates over the past 40 years as the airline has grown into one of the world's leading carriers and developed a reputation for excellence and innovation. We look forward to growing our partnership and for Emirates to fly Boeing airplanes for decades to come."

Major carriers around the world have selected the 777X and its robust design to handle high-capacity, long-range routes, including flights through harsh operational environments.

Boeing's 2025 Commercial Market Outlook (CMO) projects sustained Middle East demand for widebody airplanes, with the region expected to need nearly 3,000 new widebody jets over the next 20 years.

A leading global aerospace company and top U.S. exporter, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. Our U.S. and global workforce and supplier base drive innovation, economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing is committed to fostering a culture based on our core values of safety, quality and integrity.

ORDER - Korean Air orders 103 Boeing aircraft, including B777-8Fs Support

Photo: Ton Jochems - AMS
 

Korean Air (KE, Seoul Incheon) plans to order 103 new Boeing aircraft, including its first-ever commitment for B777-8F freighters. The deal, announced during the visit of South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung to the United States, also includes more B777-9s, B787-10s, and B737-10s.

The carrier plans to order eight B777-8Fs. It will be its first order for any new-generation widebody twinjet freighters. Its cargo fleet currently comprises four B747-400ERFs, seven B747-8Fs, and twelve B777-200Fs. Its subsidiary Asiana Airlines no longer operates dedicated freighters following the sale of its cargo business to AirZeta.

Korean Air also plans to add twenty B777-9s to its existing order for 20 units of the type, placed in March 2025. The new commitment will also include an additional twenty-five B787-10s, which will come on top of the current unfilled order for six B787-9s and twenty-seven -10s.

In addition, it plans to take fifty incremental B737-10s, complementing its existing unfilled order for nineteen B737 MAX. While Korean Air initially planned to take exclusively B737-8s, it recently converted 12 orders to the -10s.

All newly announced aircraft orders are scheduled for delivery by the end of 2030. In total, they will increase Korean Air's orderbook with Boeing from the current 72 unfilled commitments to 175. The new deal marks the largest single order placed with Boeing by an Asian carrier.

Korean Air's current Boeing fleet comprises six B737-8s, two B737-800s, nine B737-900s, six B737-900ERs, four B747-400ERFs, five B747-8s, seven B747-8Fs, five inactive B777-200ERs, twelve B777-200Fs, four B777-300s, twenty-five B777-300ERs, fourteen B787-9s, and ten B787-10s. The airline also operates one B737-700(BBJ) and one B787-8(BBJ) for the government. Asiana Airlines' only Boeing aircraft are nine B777-200ERs, while LCC subsidiaries Jin Air operates five B737-8s, nineteen B737-800s, three B737-900s, and four B777-200ERs.

Korean Air will also buy 11 spare engines from General Electric and eight from CFM International

FLEET - High-five: Fifth 777-9 takes flight

How teammates completed a first for the 777-9 program in nearly five years.

Tuesday's flight marked the first time in nearly five years the team built, prepared and flew a 777-9 airplane. (Marian Lockhart photo)

The fifth Washington-built Boeing 777-9 took off from Paine Field in Everett, Washington, Tuesday at 11:03 a.m., a sign of progress for the company’s widebody program as the team works to deliver the first airplane in 2026.
The flight marked the first time in nearly five years the team built, prepared and flew a 777-9 airplane on its first flight.
Capt. Ted Grady, 777X chief pilot, and Capt. Mark Brown, 777-9 project pilot, completed the 2-hour, 27-minute flight profile to validate the airplane’s handling and performance.
During the flight, Grady and Brown navigated a route over Washington, reaching an altitude of 39,000 feet (11,887 meters) and an airspeed of Mach .84 (511 knots), which is typical for a first flight.
Zach Lewis and Joel Conard, systems operators, and Cody Bruinsma and Mike Deutsch, flight analysts, accompanied them. The airplane returned as planned to Paine Field at 1:30 p.m.
“The 777-9 flies beautifully, and this airplane performed just as we expected,” Grady said. “We appreciate the hard work of our coworkers who designed, built and prepared this airplane for flight. Together, we are going to get the 777-9 certified and in our customers’ fleets.”

What’s next: 

The airplane will undergo a series of ground and flight tests designed to demonstrate compliance with requirements for resilience against electromagnetic interference and lighting strikes.

Catch up quick: The team recently surpassed 4,000 hours of flight testing on the dedicated 777-9 test fleet, subjecting the 777-9 to a variety of tests and conditions to demonstrate the safety and reliability of the airplane’s design.

About the family: The 777X family – the 777-9, the 777-8 Freighter and the 777-8 passenger airplane – are the newest members of Boeing’s market-leading widebody family.

Customers have ordered more than 550 777X airplanes.
Go deeper: See some of the testing underway on the dedicated 777-9 test fleet.

BOEING

ORDER - Cathay Pacific Orders 14 More Boeing 777-9 Passenger Jets

- Long-time 777 operator to expand and renew fleet with fuel-efficient 777-9 widebody jets

- Order makes Cathay Pacific the largest 777-9 operator in Asia Pacific

HONG KONG, Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Cathay Pacific today announced the Hong Kong-based carrier is ordering 14 more 777-9 passenger jets, bringing its order book to 35 of the world's largest twin-engine airplane.

Designed to reduce fuel use and emissions on average by 20% and noise by 40% compared to the airplanes it replaces, the 777-9 will enable Cathay Pacific to efficiently meet growing air travel demand across key global markets.

"We plan to expand and renew our fleet with the additional 777-9 aircraft, enabling us to continue our rich history of connecting the world with our Hong Kong hub," said Ronald Lam, Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer. "Cathay Pacific aims to further strengthen our ongoing partnership with Boeing and leverage the world-class features of the new 777-9 as we strive to become the world's best premium airline."

Cathay Pacific has grown its global network with the Boeing 777 family over the past 30 years. The addition of the latest model, the 777-9, will further reduce the airline's operating costs as it modernizes its fleet and expands passenger and cargo operations on long- and ultra long-haul routes.

"We are proud to support Cathay Pacific's continued leadership as one of the world's top airlines, and introduce the 777-9 as their future flagship airplane," said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. "This latest order demonstrates the value of the 777-9 and further strengthens the airline's tradition of delivering superb comfort, convenience and connectivity to passengers for years to come."

With a range of 7,295 nautical miles (13,510 km), the 777-9 will allow Cathay Pacific to connect passengers directly between Hong Kong and its global long-haul destinations. Customers around the world have ordered more than 550 777X airplanes, sustaining thousands of jobs at Boeing's Everett, Wash., site and across the supply chain.

A leading global aerospace company and top U.S. exporter, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. Our U.S. and global workforce and supplier base drive innovation, economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing is committed to fostering a culture based on our core values of safety, quality and integrity.

ORDER - Boeing and Qatar Airways Announce Historic Order for up to 210 Widebody Airplanes

Ceremonial signing witnessed by U.S. President Donald J. Trump and His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Amir of the State of Qatar

- Agreement for 130 787 Dreamliners and 30 777X airplanes sets a record as the largest widebody order for Boeing, the largest order for 787 Dreamliners and Qatar Airways' largest-ever order

- Order will support nearly 400,000 jobs in the U.S.

DOHA, Qatar, May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Qatar Airways and Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced the carrier will purchase up to 210 widebody jets, which sets new records as the largest widebody order for Boeing, including the largest order for 787 Dreamliners and Qatar Airways largest-ever order. This purchase, which also includes additional orders for Boeing's new 777-9, will support approximately 400,000 jobs in the U.S. and position the award-winning Middle Eastern airline for further international expansion.

130 787 Dreamliners, the long-range, ultra-efficient widebody airplane family that has delivered a 25% fuel-use improvement compared to airplanes it replaces and superior comfort for passengers. Ten orders were previously booked as unidentified.

30 777-9s, the world's largest twin-engine airplane that is designed to set new standards in efficiency by reducing fuel use and emissions by 25% compared to the airplanes it replaces, while elevating the passenger flight experience.

Options for an additional 50 787 and 777X airplanes.

U.S. President Donald J. Trump and His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Amir of the State of Qatar joined Boeing President and CEO Kelly Ortberg, Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Stephanie Pope and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer to witness the order signing.

"We are happy to announce our agreement with Boeing and our partnership in the largest aircraft order in our history. A critical next step for Qatar Airways on our path as we invest in the cleanest, youngest and most efficient fleet in global aviation. This so we can meet the strong demand in the airline as we seamlessly connect passengers to the world better than anyone," said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer. "After two consecutive years of record-breaking commercial performance and with this historic Boeing aircraft order we're not simply chasing scale, we're building strength that will allow us to continue to deliver our unmatched products and customer experiences. We thank our Boeing partners for answering the call and look forward to a future of continued smart growth together."

"We are deeply honored that Qatar Airways has placed this record-breaking order with Boeing, one that solidifies their future fleet with our market-leading widebody airplane family at its center," said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Our team is looking forward to building 787s and 777s for Qatar Airways into the next decade as they connect more people and businesses around the world with unmatched efficiency and comfort."

Qatar Airways currently operates more than 150 Boeing airplanes, including 777 and 787 passenger jets and 777 Freighters. With this purchase, Qatar Airways will become the largest 787 Dreamliner operator in the Middle East.

 

FLEET / ORDER - IAG announces Airbus and Boeing-orders

During the presentation of its Q1-2025 financial results, the International Airlines Group, IAG, announced it has placed orders for 71 new widebody aircraft with both Airbus and Boeing.

For British Airways, the Group firmed-up options for six A350-1000s and six B777-9s. It has also placed new orders for 32 B787-10s, with options on another ten.

For Iberia, IAG firmed-up options for six A350-900s.

A new type ordered by IAG is the A330-900. A total of 21 have been ordered, with options for another thirteen. IAG said it can deploy these new widebodies with Aer Lingus, Iberia and/or LEVEL.

Deliveries of the new aircraft is set to begin in 2026 and will continue until 2033.

Photos: Duncan Stewart - LAX

 

ORDER - Lufthansa missing 41 widebodies, expects B777X in 2026

Lufthansa (LH, Frankfurt International) is facing delays in the delivery of new aircraft and is currently lacking 41 widebodies, Reuters reported citing chief technology officer Grazia Vittadini. She added that the airline will be a launch customer for the B777-9 and is expecting to add the first of these in 2026, confirming recent announcements from Boeing.

The original plans called for the arrival of the first B777-9 in 2020 but the date has slipped several times due to problems with the production and certification of the airliner. According to the CTO, Lufthansa initially expected to take delivery of all twenty B777-9s on order by the end of 2024.

According to ch-aviation fleets data, Lufthansa's widebody orderbook across both manufacturers stands at 83. In addition to the B777-9s, the carrier is also anticipating delivery of thirty-four B787-9s, fourteen A350-900s, and fifteen A350-1000s.

The company's freight arm, Lufthansa Cargo, will add seven B777-8Fs. The cargo airline anticipates even later delivery of aircraft, with the first cargo jet set to arrive in its fleet in 2028.
CH Aviation

 

ORDER - Korean Air Finalizes Landmark Boeing Widebody Order

- Airline’s record deal driven by post-merger transformation

- South Korea’s flag carrier becomes the newest 777X customer

SEATTLE, Mar. 26, 2025 – Boeing [NYSE:BA] and Korean Air today finalized a landmark order for up to 50 widebody airplanes, including 20 777-9s, 20 787-10s and options for 10 additional 787 Dreamliners. This order marks the airline’s largest deal with Boeing and will play an important role as it continues to integrate operations with Asiana Airlines. 

The agreement, announced as a commitment at the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow, will be added to Boeing Commercial Airplanes’ Orders and Deliveries website.

“For over 50 years, Korean Air and Boeing have built a relationship based on trust and mutual growth. Today, we further strengthen our historic relationship with this landmark order,” said Walter Cho, chairman and CEO of Korean Air and Hanjin Group. “We look forward to continuing our journey with Boeing as our trusted partner in innovation and excellence.”

Korean Air is transforming into one of the world’s largest airlines by capacity following its merger with Asiana Airlines last year. The carrier recently unveiled its new branding and livery on a 787-10 as an initial step to operate under a single entity. As part of these efforts, the company is renewing its fleet with new fuel-efficient widebody jets to add capacity to its global network.

"This record order is the culmination of our more than 50-year partnership with Korean Air and demonstrates the strength of Boeing’s market-leading widebody family,” said Dan Schull, Boeing vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Northeast Asia. “The combination of economic efficiency and range of the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will position Korean Air for continued growth and long-term success.”

BOEING

 

Air India to sit on Boeing options until backlog clears

The CEO of Air India (AI, Delhi International) says the carrier will delay exercising its Boeing options until the manufacturer clears its backlog. Campbell Wilson told Reuters he wants delivery certainty.

"We don't want to commit to anything until we have confidence of when it's going to come," he said. "And likewise, they don't want to offer something until they have confidence of when it's going to come."

As of January 31, 2025, Air India's orderbook at Boeing stood at 153 B737 MAX, ten B777-9s, and twenty B787-9s. Included in the contracts are options for another fifty MAX and twenty B787-9s. Boeing has 619 B787-9s, 481 B777X, and 4,759 B737 MAX on backorder. However, the US Federal Aviation Administration is still to certify the B777X and has slowed MAX production to 38 aircraft per month.

"We expect to get [our aircraft], but do we expect to get them according to timeline? No, we don't," said Wilson. "And I think that every airline would tell you the same thing,"

Air India is in the process of a fleet renewal as part of a broader transformation underway under Wilson's watch. It also placed an order with Airbus in early 2023 for 140 A320-200Ns, seventy A321-200Ns, thirty-four A350-1000s, and six A350-900s. It backed that up with another order late last year for ninety A320neo family types and ten A350s. Airbus is also experiencing problems getting its aircraft off the assembly line and to customers on schedule.

Wilson said that apart from a slower-than-planned aircraft delivery pace, supply chain issues are decelerating the refurbishment of existing aircraft and impacting the transformation strategy.

"We've had delays from pretty much every supplier for every one of our seat upgrade programmes, some as short as six to nine months, others as long as 18 months," he said. "That just pushes out the whole product transformation longer than we had hoped."

While refurbishments of the existing B787 fleet are reportedly progressing reasonably well, the B777 refurbishments are experiencing delays because of problems procuring the seats. Recently, Air India said it was suspending its Mumbai International-Melbourne Airport and Kochi International-London Gatwick routes because of B777 shortages.

According to the ch-aviation fleets module, five of Air India's nineteen B777-300ERs are out of service while all eight B777-200LRs are in the air. The fleet also includes ten A319-100s, seven A320-200s, ninety-five A320-200Ns, thirteen A321-200s, thirteen A321-200NX, one A321-200NX(LR), six A350-900s, twenty-seven B787-8s and seven B787-9s.

CH Aviation

FLEET - Qatar Airways Announces Order for 20 More Boeing 777-9 Passenger Jets

- 777X launch customer takes 777X order book to nearly 100 airplanes

- Order part of growth plan that includes 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Qatar Airways announced today the Middle Eastern airline's order for 20 more 777-9 airplanes, which will be the world's largest and most fuel-efficient twin-engine jet. The order, which expands the carrier's 777X order book to nearly 100 airplanes, was finalized this year and listed as unidentified on Boeing's Orders & Deliveries website.

The award-winning airline helped launch the 777X program and now has on order 60 777-9 passenger airplanes. Qatar Airways is also the inaugural launch customer for the 777-8 Freighter and has 34 of the next generation cargo jet on order.


"Qatar Airways is proud to announce an expansion to the existing Boeing 777X aircraft order with an additional 20, totalling 94 Boeing 777X aircraft," said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer. "We, as the World's Best Airline, are an industry leader and operate one of the youngest fleets, offering unparalleled innovation and quality. Keeping an eye on the future, we continue to ensure that all Qatar Airways passengers are only met with the best products and services available in the industry."

Based on the popular Boeing 777 family and with advanced technologies from the 787 Dreamliner, the 777X program is designed to set new standards of efficiency, environmental performance and passenger experience. The 777-9 is the largest in the family and will help operators open new growth opportunities with capacity for 426 passengers in a typical two-class configuration and a range of 7,295 nautical miles (13,510 km).

Earlier this month, Boeing began certification flight testing for the 777-9, which will offer a new level of passenger comfort with a spacious cabin, better humidity, a quiet environment and increased natural light.

"Qatar Airways is a leader in our industry, and we are honored the airline added 20 more 777-9 jets to its large Boeing order book," said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We appreciate their confidence that Boeing's market-leading widebody family will provide outstanding fuel efficiency and a superior passenger experience for its global operations."

In addition to the 777X family, Qatar Airways has 12 787 Dreamliner and 25 737 MAX aircraft on order.

Boeing's 2024 Commercial Market Outlook forecasts that twin-aisle jets such as its 777X and 787 Dreamliner will make up 44% of the region's fleet across Middle Eastern operators over the next 20 years.

 

FLEET - Korean Air Commits to Up to 50 Boeing Widebodies to Strengthen Future Long-Haul Fleet

- Korea's flag carrier to become newest 777X customer with commitment for 20 777-9 passenger airplanes
- Order for up to 30 787-10 jets will nearly double airline's 787 Dreamliner order book ahead of its merger with Asiana Airlines

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Korean Air announced today the airline's intent to purchase up to 50 of Boeing's highly fuel-efficient widebody airplanes, including 20 777-9s and 20 787-10s with options for 10 more of the largest 787 Dreamliner variant.
Korean Air's selection of the 777-9 and 787-10 supports planned growth and renewal of its fleet in size, range and capacity to reach high-demand markets in Europe and North America, as well as popular regional routes within Asia. The carrier will leverage the market-leading efficiency and versatility of these widebody jets to enhance its fleet while adding flexibility to its global network ahead of its anticipated merger with Asiana Airlines.


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"The addition of the Boeing 777-9 and 787-10 aircraft marks a significant milestone in our strategic objective to expand and upgrade our fleet," said Walter Cho, Chairman and CEO of Korean Air. "This investment underscores our commitment to providing a best-in-class flying experience. These new airplanes will elevate passenger comfort and enhance operational efficiency, while significantly reducing carbon emissions, supporting our long-term commitment to sustainable aviation."
When finalized and posted to Boeing's Orders & Deliveries website, Korean Air will be the latest customer to purchase the world's largest and most fuel-efficient twin engine jet.
The 777-9 can seat 426 passengers in a two-class configuration with a range of 13,500 km (7,285 nautical miles) and the 787-10 can carry up to 336 passengers with a range of 11,730 km (6,330 nautical miles).
"We are honored Korean Air has selected our largest, most efficient widebody airplanes to add capacity to its global network," said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Boeing airplanes have played an integral role with Korean Air over the past 50 years, and the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will continue to support the airline's long-term goals for sustainability and continued growth."
The 777-9 features advanced technologies from the 787 Dreamliner family, including new carbon-fiber composite wings and engines that will enable the airplane to achieve 10% better fuel efficiency, CO2 emissions and operating costs than the competition. Meanwhile, the fuel efficiency of the 787 has helped operators avoid more than 169 billion pounds in CO2 emissions since entering service.
Recently rated the #2 airline in the world by airlineratings.com, Korean Air continues to optimize its global route network and looks to maintain its status as a leading global carrier. The airline will feature new business class suites and Wi-Fi capability onboard its new 787-10s, further enhancing its award-winning onboard service.
Korean Air's Aerospace Division currently supplies components for the 787 program, including the model's unique raked wing-tip. The supplier also produces parts for a number of Boeing airplanes including the 737 MAX, 767 and 777.
As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at boeing.com/careers.
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DUBAI AIR SHOW 2023 - Emirates Orders Nearly 100 More Boeing Widebody Airplanes

- World's largest 777 operator buys 55 777-9 and 35 777-8 jets, expanding its 777X backlog to 205 jets

- Carrier updates 787 Dreamliner order book to 35, adding five jets to further meet long-haul demand

 DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Nov. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Emirates announced today that the world's largest 777 operator has placed an order for 90 777X airplanes, including 55 777-9 and 35 777-8 jets. The new order, which increases Emirates' 777X family backlog to 205 planes, was announced during the Dubai Airshow at a signing event attended by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group; and Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

In addition, Emirates updated its 787 Dreamliner order book to better align future capacity to demand. The airline is buying five more 787 jets – growing its 787 backlog to 35 – while converting 30 787-9s to 20 787-8 and 10 787-10 airplanes.





"Emirates is the biggest operator of Boeing 777 aircraft, and today's order cements that position," said HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group. "We've been closely involved in the 777 program since its start up until this latest generation of 777X aircraft. The 777 has been central to Emirates' fleet and network strategy of connecting cities on all continents non-stop to Dubai. We are pleased to extend our relationship with Boeing and look forward to the first 777-9 joining our fleet in 2025." 

Boeing's relationship with Emirates dates back to the airline's first 777 order in 1992. Today, Emirates has nearly 150 777 jets in its fleet. Based on the most successful twin-aisle airplane ever, the 777, the 777X family is designed to maximize efficiency and environmental performance by 25%, while providing an exceptional onboard experience.

"This order is an incredible vote of confidence in Boeing's highly efficient widebody family and the versatility of our 777X and 787 airplanes to meet Emirates' needs for global long-haul travel," said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 777-9 and 777-8 are the perfect airplanes to support Emirates' growth, improving environmental performance and unmatched payload capability along the way."

The 777-9 will be the largest and most fuel-efficient twin-engine jet in the world, with the lowest operating cost per seat of any commercial airplane. Opening new growth opportunities for airlines, the 777-9 seats 426 passengers in a typical two-class configuration, with a range of 13,510 km (7,295 nautical miles).

The 777-8 seats 395 passengers with a range capability of up to 16,190 km (8,745 nautical miles). The 777-8 also offers airlines more revenue potential through more payload and improved fuel efficiency on short and long flights.

The 777X family also provides unmatched passenger comfort with a wider cabin and interiors that provide better humidity levels, a smoother ride and more natural light.

The 787 is the industry's most versatile widebody jet, operating with superior efficiency and comfort across all network segments. The enhanced efficiency and performance of the 787 family reduce fuel use and emissions by up to 25% compared to today's similarly sized airplanes. Passengers enjoy a better experience with the largest windows of any jet, air that is more humid and pressurized at a lower cabin altitude for greater comfort, and technology that senses and counters turbulence for a smoother ride.

Boeing's 2023 Commercial Market Outlook forecasts widebody airplanes will comprise 45% of deliveries to Middle East airlines over the next 20 years ─ the highest regional percentage worldwide. Many airlines in the region provide service between major global population centers and as a result, a higher proportion of widebody aircraft are needed to carry larger passenger volumes.

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at boeing.com/careers.

ANA amends B777-9 order and firms up MAX-order

All Nippon Airways announced it has decided to amend its order for 20 B777-9s and convert two aircraft into orders for the B777-8F. The new freighters are expected to be delivered in fiscal year 2028.

The airline has also firmed up its purchase agreement signed with Boeing on 29 January 2019 for the Boeing B737MAX. ANA now has firm orders for 20 B737-8s, with options on another ten aircraft. The first MAX8 is scheduled to arrive in 2025 and will be used to replace the B737-800s in the fleet, together with the A320neo/A321neos.

Today, ANA's fleet consists of eleven A320neos, four A321s, 22 A321neos, three A380s, 39 B737-800s, sixteen B767-300ERs, nine B767-300Fs, two B777-200s, eight B777-200ERs, four B777-300s, fifteen B777-300ERs, two B777Fs, 36 B787-8s, 39 B787-9s and two B787-10s.

Illustration by Boeing

Emirates considers downsizing B777-9 order

 

The chairman of Emirates has said to journalists during the opening of the Arabian Travel Market that the airline is actively evaluating its future fleet needs and is considering downsizing its B777-9 order and swap them for the smaller B787.

The rationale behind such a move is the frustration of the airline in the delays of the B777-9 programme, which is now running more than three years behind schedule, and as well the lower worldwide demand due to the Corona-pandemic. Originally, Emirates had planned to take delivery of its first B777-9 last year, but this now seems to become 2024 or even later.

During the Dubai Air Show of 2013, Emirates ordered 35 B777-8s and 115 B777-9s. In November 2019, Boeing and Emirates announced an adjustment to the orderbook, driven by a delay of the programme and the indefinite postponement of the B777-8. Emirates swapped orders for 24 B777-8s to 30 B787-9s but as the B777-8 is deferred, this effectively means the airline "only" has 115 B777Xs remaining on order.

It's not clear with how many aircraft Emirates is considering downsizing its order. According to various sources it could be as low as 30 but as high as 60. A timeline is also unclear but the chairman did say that they are in discussion with Boeing "now" about the order. 

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Illustration by Boeing.

Emirates Orders 30 Boeing 787 Dreamliner Airplanes to Complement 777X family

One of the world's leading airlines firms up future fleet with 787-9, 777-8 and 777-9 models

Announcement includes update of Emirates' 777X order book; and agreement for replacement parts for 777 airplanes


DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Nov. 20, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Emirates announced today they have finalized a purchase agreement for 30 787-9 Dreamliner airplanes, valued at $8.8 billion according to list prices. The agreement, signed at the Dubai Airshow, culminates discussions between the two companies on the best 787 Dreamliner model to meet the requirements of one of the world's leading airlines.

Emirates had previously signed an initial agreement for the larger 787-10 variant. In officially selecting the 787-9 today, Emirates adds a medium-sized widebody airplane to complement the airline's larger 777 aircraft. Both airplane families lead their respective category for superior range and fuel efficiency.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Emirates Chairman and Chief Executive said: "I am pleased to announce a firm order for 30 Boeing Dreamliners. This is an important investment and addition to our future fleet and it reflects Emirates' continued efforts to provide the best quality air transport services to our customers. The 787s will complement our fleet mix by expanding our operational flexibility in terms of capacity, range and deployment. We are also pleased to reaffirm our commitment to the Boeing 777X programme and look forward to its entry into service.

Sheikh Ahmed added: "Our Boeing fleet is key to our business model to serve international demand for travel to and through our Dubai hub, as we continue to contribute to the UAE's strategy to become a global destination for business and tourism by providing high quality air connectivity."

As part of the agreement, Emirates will update a portion of its large order book by exercising substitution rights and converting 30 777 airplanes into 30 787-9s. With this conversion, Emirates remains the world's biggest 777X customer with 126 airplanes on order and the largest 777 operator with 155 airplanes today.

"We are excited to finalize this important order from one of the world's leading airlines. Our agreement solidifies Emirates' plan to operate the 787 Dreamliner and the 777X, which make up the most efficient and most capable widebody combination in the industry," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President & CEO Stan Deal. "It is an honor to build on our successful partnership with Emirates and continue to sustain many jobs at Boeing and our supplier partners."

To support Emirates' current-generation 777 airplanes in the coming years, the companies announced that Boeing Global Services will leverage its worldwide supply chain to provide timely replacement parts, reducing maintenance times and keeping aircraft in service.

At 63 meters (206 feet), the 787-9 Dreamliner can fly 296 passengers, in a typical two-class configuration, up to 7,530 nautical miles (13,950 kilometers), while reducing fuel costs by more than 20 percent compared to previous airplanes they replace. Designed with the passenger in mind, the 787 delivers an unparalleled experience with the largest windows of any jet, large overhead bins with room for everyone's bag, comfortable cabin air that is cleaner and more humid, and soothing LED lighting.

The Dreamliner's superior efficiency and range have allowed airlines to open 257 new non-stop routes around the world. More than 80 customers around the world have ordered more than 1,400 Dreamliners since the program's introduction, making it the fastest-selling widebody jet in history.

About Boeing:

Boeing is the world's largest aerospace company and leading provider of commercial airplanes, defense, space and security systems, and global services. As the top U.S. exporter, the company supports commercial and government customers in more than 150 countries. Boeing employs more than 150,000 people worldwide and leverages the talents of a global supplier base. Building on a legacy of aerospace leadership, Boeing continues to lead in technology and innovation, deliver for its customers and invest in its people and future growth.