Qatar Airways Secures Major Boeing Order During Presidential Visit

DOHA/SEATTLE - In a significant development for the aviation sector, Qatar Airways has finalized an impressive order for 160 widebody jetliners from Boeing, with the potential for an additional 50 jets, during President Donald Trump's recent visit to Qatar. This groundbreaking deal, valued at approximately $96 billion, marks Boeing's largest transaction for twin-aisle aircraft to date.

The agreement, which includes firm orders for 130 Boeing 787s and 30 777Xs, was announced in a signing ceremony attended by President Trump, Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg, and Qatar Airways CEO Badr Mohammed Al-Meer. The order not only reflects Qatar Airways' commitment to expanding its fleet but also serves as a vital boost for Boeing amidst challenges faced by its competitors.

Boeing's 777X and 787 aircraft will be powered by engines from GE Aerospace, with the GEnx engines selected for the 787 models and the GE9X exclusively designated for the 777X. This deal also includes a historic order for 400 engines from GE Aerospace, as confirmed by CEO Larry Culp.

Qatar Airways had previously indicated its intention to procure a substantial number of widebody jets, and this agreement fulfills that ambition while simultaneously benefiting Boeing and GE Aerospace. The announcement comes at a time when Airbus's A350 models have been grappling with maintenance issues, particularly in the challenging operating conditions of the Gulf region.

The 777X, which is still under development, is anticipated to begin deliveries in 2026, six years behind its original schedule. Despite this delay, Qatar Airways has already placed orders for 94 units of the 777X. Meanwhile, its rival, Emirates, has secured 205 orders for the same aircraft. Boeing's order book currently shows a total of 521 orders for the 777X and 828 for the 787 as of the end of April 2025.

This substantial order is expected to contribute positively to Boeing's financial outlook and further solidify its position in the competitive aerospace market. The collaboration between Qatar Airways and Boeing underscores the ongoing partnership between the two entities and highlights the significance of international trade agreements in the aviation industry.