Qatar Airways Welcomes 20 Cutting-Edge Boeing 777-9 Jets to Its Fleet!
Boeing and Qatar Airways announced today the acquisition of an additional 20 Boeing 777-9 aircraft by the Middle Eastern airline, which will become the world’s largest and most fuel-efficient twin-engine jets. This acquisition expands the airline’s 777X order to nearly 100 aircraft and has been registered this year as undisclosed on Boeing’s Orders & Deliveries platform.
The distinguished airline has played an essential role in the inception of the 777X program and currently has 60 777-9 passenger jets on order. Qatar Airways also serves as the first launch customer for the 777-8 Freighter, with 34 of these innovative cargo aircraft on order.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, stated: “We are thrilled to enhance our existing Boeing 777X aircraft order with an additional 20 jets, raising the total to 94 Boeing 777X aircraft. As the World’s Best Airline, we lead the aviation sector with one of the most contemporary fleets, providing unparalleled innovation and quality. With a future-oriented strategy, we ensure that every Qatar Airways passenger experiences the finest products and services in the industry.”
Originating from the prestigious Boeing 777 series and integrating advanced technologies from the 787 Dreamliner, the 777X program seeks to set new standards in efficiency, environmental responsibility, and passenger comfort. The 777-9 is the largest variant in the line, allowing operators to explore new growth opportunities with seating for 426 passengers in a typical two-class arrangement and a range of 7,295 nautical miles (13,510 km).
Earlier this month, Boeing initiated certification flight trials for the 777-9, which will feature an elevated level of passenger comfort through a roomy cabin, enhanced humidity control, a tranquil environment, and greater natural lighting.
“Qatar Airways is an innovator in our industry, and we are honored that the airline has expanded its order portfolio by adding 20 more 777-9 jets,” remarked Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We appreciate their confidence that Boeing’s premier widebody family will provide exceptional fuel efficiency and an extraordinary passenger experience for their global operations.”
In addition to the 777X series, Qatar Airways has also placed orders for 12 787 Dreamliners and 25 737 MAX planes.
Boeing’s 2024 Commercial Market Outlook forecasts that twin-aisle aircraft such as the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will make up 44% of the fleet among regional operators over the next two decades.
