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Emirates Launches $52 Billion Boeing Aircraft Order, Kicking Off 2023 Dubai Airshow
In an announcement on the first day of the 2023 Dubai Airshow, Emirates Airline has revealed a monumental order for 95 Boeing aircraft, totaling a staggering $52 billion. The state-owned flagship carrier, a key subsidiary of Emirates Group, is set to acquire 55 additional Boeing 777-9s and 35 777-8s, propelling the airline’s total orders for the 777X wide-body jets to an impressive 205 units.
Emirates, already holding the distinction of operating the largest fleet of Boeing 777 aircraft globally, is further solidifying its position as a major player in the aviation industry. The colossal order also includes an update to the airline’s Boeing 787 Dreamliners, increasing the count from 30 to 35, with 15 787-10s and 20 787-8s.
The comprehensive deal extends beyond the aircraft themselves, with Emirates confirming an additional order of 202 General Electric GE9X engines to power the newly acquired 777X fleet. This brings the airline’s total GE9X engine order to an impressive 460. The Boeing 777 aircraft, renowned for its long-haul capabilities, can fly for up to 18 hours, making it a preferred choice for extended journeys.
Emirates’ strategic move to enhance its fleet underlines the ongoing demand for wide-body jets, with the Middle East region playing a pivotal role in driving this demand. According to analysts at wealth management firm AllianceBernstein, Middle East customers now account for “the largest portion of combined Airbus and Boeing widebody passenger backlog at 30% of the global total.”
The region’s significance in aviation stems from its role as a central connection hub for long-haul journeys, emphasizing its demand for wide-body aircraft. Both Boeing and Airbus have consistently identified the Middle East as a major source of this demand, with robust long-term growth outlooks and a healthy recovery in air travel demand following the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, expressed his enthusiasm during a news conference, stating, “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.”
Emirates’ monumental order sets the tone for the Dubai Airshow, positioning the airline as a key influencer in shaping the future of the aviation industry. The acquisition not only signifies a significant investment in cutting-edge aircraft but also underscores Emirates’ commitment to remaining at the forefront of global air travel.
