HONG KONG — Cathay Pacific (CX) has announced an order of 14 more brand new Boeing 777-9 aircraft, bringing the airline's total 777-9 order to 35 aircraft.

The largest twin-engine aircraft built by the U.S.-based manufacturer, the type offers 20% reduced fuel burn and emissions and noise reduction by 40% enhancing efficiency and growth of the Hong Kong-based carrier.

Boeing 777-9 features a range of  7,295 nautical miles (13,510 km), allowing Cathay Pacific to connect passengers between Hong Kong and several long-haul and ultra-long-haul destinations around the globe.

"We plan to expand and renew our fleet with the additional 777-9 aircraft, enabling us to continue our rich history of connecting the world with our Hong Kong hub. Cathay Pacific aims to further strengthen our ongoing partnership with Boeing and leverage the world-class features of the new 777-9 as we strive to become the world's best premium airline," said Ronald Lam, Cathay Group CEO.

Cathay has grown its network over the last three decades using Boeing’s 777. The addition of the newest Boeing 777-9 aircraft will further reduce the airline’s operating costs and expand passenger and cargo operations on long-haul and ultra-long-haul routes.

"We are proud to support Cathay Pacific's continued leadership as one of the world's top airlines, and introduce the 777-9 as their future flagship airplane. This latest order demonstrates the value of the 777-9 and further strengthens the airline's tradition of delivering superb comfort, convenience, and connectivity to passengers for years to come," said Brad McMulles, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing.

The Boeing 777X

The Boeing 777x program was launched in November 2013, featuring Boeing 777-8 and Boeing 777-9 passenger jets accommodating 395 and 426 passengers in a standard 2-class configuration, respectively. Boeing 777-8 freighter is a part of the 777X program and is designed to carry 112 tonnes of net payload.  

Over 550 Boeing 777x aircraft were ordered by customers worldwide, supporting thousands of jobs at Boeing’s site in Everett and across the supply chain.

The news comes as Boeing makes its first maiden flight of a 777-9 in five years, adding a fifth test aircraft to the certification campaign, according to The Air Current.