Emirates Eyes 2027 for Delayed Boeing 777X Delivery
Emirates President Tim Clark has shared cautious optimism about the long-awaited Boeing 777X, as the airline prepares for potential delivery of its first aircraft in early 2027. Speaking to reporters during the 81st IATA Annual General Meeting in Delhi, Clark said that Emirates is now receiving clearer signals from Boeing, suggesting a delivery window between late 2026 and early 2027. This marks a significant development in what has been a prolonged wait for the Dubai-based airline’s next-generation widebody jets.
Emirates initially placed a $56 billion order for 150 Boeing 777X aircraft back in 2014, comprising 115 777-9s and 35 777-8s. The order has since grown to 200 units with additional purchase rights, making Emirates the largest customer for the type. The original delivery schedule set 2020 as the entry-into-service date, but ongoing certification delays, quality control issues at Boeing, and the COVID-19 pandemic have repeatedly pushed back the timeline. If Boeing had met the initial deadline, Emirates would already have 80 777-9s in service.
Despite the delays, Clark praised Boeing’s renewed commitment to the program following his recent discussions with CEO Kelly Ortberg. He cited increased energy and determination from the manufacturer, noting that Boeing is “walking the talk” in terms of progress. Clark is scheduled to visit Boeing’s Seattle facilities in September 2025 to inspect the certification and production process firsthand. He emphasized the importance of certifying the aircraft under Boeing’s updated quality and safety framework.
Boeing is contractually obligated to deliver the first 777X to Emirates by October 2025, a deadline now considered unattainable. However, Clark expressed hope that the aircraft could enter service by the third or fourth quarter of 2026 if it completes ETOPS certification testing by early that year. Emirates has already begun ordering buyer-furnished equipment such as seating and galleys for installation at Boeing’s production lines, signaling preparation for eventual delivery.
In the meantime, Emirates is working to fill the capacity gap caused by the delayed 777X program. The airline has launched a $5 billion cabin refresh across 219 existing aircraft to extend their operational life. It has also taken delivery of the first five of 65 Airbus A350-900s, which will help support long-haul operations as the new Boeing jets remain out of reach.
Clark also reaffirmed Emirates’ long-term commitment to the Airbus A380, with 118 superjumbos still in service. He said the airline plans to keep the aircraft in operation through the end of the next decade, provided parts support and maintenance capabilities remain viable.
With its massive 777X order still pending and global demand for efficient widebody aircraft increasing, Emirates is pressing Boeing to accelerate certification and ramp up production. While delays persist, the airline appears cautiously optimistic that meaningful progress is now underway.
Related News : https://airguide.info/?s=Emirates