Doha: Qatar Airways today announced a groundbreaking agreement with Boeing, marking the largest aircraft order in the airline’s history. As part of a strategic plan to expand its fleet, the carrier has committed to acquiring up to 210 Boeing widebody jets, including 160 firm orders and 50 optional ones.
According to Qatar News Agency, this unprecedented deal represents both the largest widebody order and the largest 787 Dreamliner order ever for Boeing. The announcement coincided with the meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Qatar’s Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.
In addition to the aircraft order, Qatar Airways has entered into a significant agreement with GE Aerospace for the purchase of more than 400 engines. This deal includes 60 GE9X and 260 GEnx engines, along with additional options and spares, aimed at powering the airline’s new Boeing 777-9 and Boeing 787 aircraft. This transaction marks the largest widebody engine purchase in GE Aerospace’s history.
Qatar Airways Group CEO, Eng. Badr Mohammed Al Meer, expressed satisfaction with the agreements, emphasizing their importance in the airline’s long-term growth strategy. Al Meer highlighted the airline’s commitment to maintaining the cleanest, youngest, and most efficient fleet in global aviation, which is crucial to catering to the strong demand for air travel.
The order encompasses 130 787 Dreamliners, known for their fuel efficiency and passenger comfort, and 30 777-9s, the largest twin-engine airplanes designed to enhance efficiency and reduce emissions. The deal includes options for an additional 50 787 and 777X aircraft.
Stephanie Pope, Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO, expressed gratitude for Qatar Airways’ trust in Boeing, highlighting the significance of this record-breaking order. She emphasized Boeing’s commitment to supporting Qatar Airways as they expand their global reach.
Currently operating over 150 Boeing aircraft, Qatar Airways is set to become the largest Dreamliner operator in the Middle East. The agreements with GE Aerospace further reinforce Qatar’s position in the aviation industry, enhancing its fleet’s efficiency and performance.
The deals also entail service agreements for the maintenance and overhaul of the GEnx and GE9X engines. GE Aerospace’s CEO, H. Lawrence Culp, Jr., expressed honor in strengthening the partnership with Qatar Airways, acknowledging the engines’ capability to support long-distance flights.
With these historic agreements, Qatar Airways continues to solidify its position as a leader in modern aviation, ensuring its fleet remains at the forefront of technology and efficiency.