FARNBOROUGH- Qatar Airways (QR) expands its Boeing 777X fleet with an order for 20 additional 777-9 airplanes. This deal increases the airline’s total 777X orders to nearly 100 aircraft, solidifying its position as a key customer for Boeing’s newest wide-body jet.
The 777-9, set to become the world’s largest and most fuel-efficient twin-engine jet, will seat 426 passengers in a typical two-class layout. It boasts a range of 7,295 nautical miles, opening new route possibilities for Qatar Airways.
Qatar Airways 777X Order
Qatar Airways played a crucial role in launching the Boeing 777X program. The airline now holds orders for 60 777-9 passenger planes and 34 777-8 Freighters, making it the launch customer for both variants.
The 777X incorporates advanced technologies from the 787 Dreamliner, aiming to set new standards in efficiency and environmental performance. Further, this aligns with Qatar Airways’ commitment to sustainable growth and operational excellence.
The new aircraft offers a spacious cabin, improved humidity, a quieter environment, and increased natural light.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer stated:
Qatar Airways is proud to announce an expansion to the existing Boeing 777X aircraft order with an additional 20, totalling 94 Boeing 777X aircraft.
Qatar Airways Group CEO, 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.”
GE Aerospace President and CEO of Commercial Engines and Services, Russell Stokes, stated:
We are pleased to extend our partnership with Qatar Airways to support the airline’s commitment to an excellent customer experience and best-in-class efficiency. The GE9X is the world’s most powerful and most fuel-efficient turbofan and we look forward to continuing to support the growth of the Qatar Airways family with this technology.”
GE Aerospace President and CEO of Commercial Engines and Services, Russell Stokes
Certification Phase
Boeing’s 777-9 enters certification flight testing, promising enhanced passenger comfort. The new aircraft offers a spacious cabin, improved humidity, a quieter environment, and increased natural light.
The airline’s Boeing orders now include 60 777-9 passenger planes, 34 777-8 Freighters, 12 787 Dreamliners, and 25 737 MAX aircraft. This diverse fleet underscores Qatar Airways’ strategy for operational flexibility and efficiency.
Boeing’s 2024 Commercial Market Outlook predicts twin-aisle jets like the 777X and 787 will comprise 44% of Middle Eastern fleets over the next two decades. This forecast aligns with Qatar Airways’ investment in these aircraft types.
The 777X program combines technologies from the popular 777 family and the advanced 787 Dreamliner. Further, it aims to set new standards in efficiency and environmental performance, crucial factors in modern aviation.
Big Order in 2025
Qatar Airways suggests a significant wide-body jet order may occur around the year’s end. This announcement comes amid industry expectations of limited deal-making at this year’s aviation event.
Both Airbus and Boeing face production challenges, with order books full for several years. Supply chain issues hinder their efforts to increase output, affecting new orders.
Qatar Airways’ recent Boeing deal, worth nearly $4 billion, was previously listed as an unidentified customer. Cirium Ascend provided this valuation estimate.
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