Emirates Airline, on November 13, marked a significant milestone at the 2023 Dubai Airshow by announcing a $52 billion order for 95 Boeing aircraft at the Dubai Airshow. This substantial deal underscores Emirates’ ongoing commitment to expanding and modernizing its fleet.
The Dubai-based carrier, a subsidiary of the Emirates Group, has expanded its Boeing 777X wide-body jet order to 205 units, comprising an additional 55 Boeing 777-9s and 35 Boeing 777-8s. Furthermore, Emirates has revised its Boeing 787 Dreamliner order, increasing it from 30 to 35 aircraft, which includes 15 of the 787-10 model and 20 of the 787-8 model.
Here is a recap of all Emirates Airline wide-body orders as of Nov. 13, 2023:
- Airbus
- A350-900 ordered 50, deliveries planned to start from 2024.
- Boeing
- 777-8 ordered 70, deliveries planned to start from mid 2025.
- 777-9 ordered 135, deliveries planned to start from mid 2025.
- 787-8 ordered 20, deliveries planned to start from 2025.
- 787-10 ordered 15, deliveries planned to start from 2025.
In addition to the aircraft, Emirates has confirmed an order for 202 GE9X engines from General Electric, which are designed to power the new 777X planes. This order brings Emirates’ total GE9X engine count to 460, a testament to the airline’s investment in state-of-the-art aviation technology. The 777 model is renowned for its endurance, capable of flying for up to 18 hours.
Emirates’ expansion in wide-body aircraft is a clear indication of the Middle East’s growing significance in the global aviation market. Analysts at AllianceBernstein note that the Middle East now accounts for the largest portion of the combined Airbus and Boeing widebody passenger backlog, holding 30% of the global total. This prominence is largely attributed to the region’s strategic role as a hub for long-haul travel, bolstered by a strong recovery in air travel demand post-COVID-19.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, emphasized the importance of the Boeing 777 in their fleet strategy. “The 777 has been integral to Emirates’ mission of linking cities globally with non-stop flights to Dubai. We’re excited to continue our partnership with Boeing and eagerly anticipate the arrival of the first 777-9 in 2025,” he stated at the news conference.
This latest order from Emirates not only fortifies its position as the largest operator of Boeing 777 aircraft but also reflects the airline’s foresight and confidence in the future of aviation.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, boeing.com
