UAE’s Etihad Airways Orders 28 Widebodies

Boeing announced it has secured a third aircraft order as a direct result of President Donald Trump’s visit to the Persian Gulf Region this week after Etihad, a flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates, placed an order for 28 widebody aircraft.

With the $14.8 billion agreement, Etihad will purchase a mix of the 787 Dreamliners and 777X aircraft, all powered by GE Aerospace engines.

Boeing announced earlier this week it had secured orders from Saudi Arabia’s AviLease, the first ever direct order from the leasing company, as well as a $200 billion order from Qatar Airways, the largest order Boeing has ever received.

Etihad said in a report that the new aircraft represented its “ongoing approach to align its fleet with evolving network and operational needs.”

A White House spokesperson said, “With the inclusion of the next generation 777X in its fleet plan, the investment deepens the longstanding commercial aviation partnership between the UAE and the United States, fueling American manufacturing, driving exports, and supporting 60,000 U.S. jobs.”

The order by Qatar Airways included 130 787 Dreamliners and 30 777-9s, with options for 50 more aircraft.

Mohammed Al-Meer, CEO of Qatar Airways said: “This is a critical next step for Qatar Airways on our path as we invest in the cleanest, youngest and most efficient fleet in global aviation.  This is so we can meet the strong demand in the airline as we seamlessly connect passengers to the world better than anyone.” 

FMI:  www.boeing.com/