In a powerful display of confidence in American aircraft manufacturer Boeing, Emirates Airlines has announced a massive new order for 65 Boeing 777X planes during the opening day of the Dubai Airshow 2025.
Major Aviation Deal Despite Setbacks
The Middle East's largest airline confirmed the order for 65 777-9 aircraft, valued at a staggering $38 billion including engines. This commitment comes despite Boeing's announcement last month that delivery of the 777X is now scheduled for 2027 – a full seven years behind the original timeline.
Emirates Group chairman and chief executive Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum addressed concerns about the airline's substantial aircraft backlog during a press conference. "Some people may have doubts about Emirates' huge backlog of aircraft orders," he stated. "But I assure that each and every aircraft on order has been carefully factored into Emirates' growth plans."
Expanding an Already Massive Fleet
With this latest order, Emirates solidifies its position as the world's largest Boeing 777 customer. The airline's current order book now includes:
- 270 Boeing 777X aircraft
- 10 Boeing 777 freighters
- 35 Boeing 787 Dreamliners
The first 777X deliveries are expected to begin in the second quarter of 2027, according to Sheikh Ahmed's announcement.
Global Aviation Landscape Shifts
The Dubai Airshow, the largest aviation exhibition in the Middle East, also featured significant developments from other global players. China showcased its COMAC C919 passenger jet for the first time in the region, marking a direct challenge to the long-standing dominance of Boeing and Airbus.
Additional announcements included:
- Brazil's Embraer securing orders from Air Cote d'Ivoire for four passenger planes
- Three additional Embraer aircraft for Switzerland's Helvetic Airways
- Boeing's deals with Ethiopian Airlines for 11 737 MAX jets
- Nine 737-8 aircraft ordered by Air Senegal
Boeing's senior vice-president of sales and marketing, Brad McMullen, emphasized the mutual dependence between the manufacturer and Emirates. "I don't think there was any convincing that needed to be done, frankly," McMullen commented. "I think they've committed to the 777-9, their future depends on it. Our future depends on Emirates."
The order represents a significant vote of confidence for Boeing as the company works to recover from a challenging period that included deadly crashes, court cases, production delays, and recent strikes in its defense division.
In related news, Emirates also revealed it will begin rolling out free in-flight wifi via Elon Musk's Starlink satellite network, enhancing passenger experience across its fleet.
