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DUBAI — Emirates has announced a major expansion of its future widebody fleet with a firm order for 65 additional Boeing 777-9 aircraft, valued at $38 billion at list prices. The deal, signed on the opening day of the Dubai Airshow 2025, brings the airline’s total Boeing widebody orderbook to 315 aircraft, further cementing its status as the world’s largest operator and customer of Boeing long-haul jets.
The order also strengthens Emirates’ partnership with GE Aerospace, increasing the carrier’s commitment to the GE9X engine, the exclusive powerplant for the 777X program. With this latest purchase, Emirates’ total GE9X orderbook now stands at 540 engines, alongside its already extensive fleet of GE90 and GP7200-powered aircraft.
A Strategic Expansion Despite 777X Delays
Despite the increased attraction coming from the A350-1000—check out our upcoming episode of the Airways Podcast, the Boeing 777-9 remains central to EK’s fleet renewal strategy, offering the airline improved fuel efficiency, additional range, and next-generation cabin features. However, the Triple Seven program continues to face certification and production delays, with first deliveries not expected before 2027.
Emirates has invested billions in retrofits and cabin upgrades for its existing fleet as it awaits the new widebodies. The airline has also publicly urged Boeing to accelerate progress on the program, underscoring the importance of the 777X to its future high-capacity, long-haul operations.
Leadership Comments
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline & Group, called the order a reaffirmation of the carrier’s long-term confidence in the 777X program and its U.S. manufacturing partners:
“This order demonstrates a long-term commitment and a testament to our partnership with Boeing and GE. The 777-9 will be an important part of Emirates’ future fleet strategy as we continue investing in modern, efficient aircraft.”
Russell Stokes, President and CEO of GE Aerospace’s Commercial Engines and Services division, emphasized Emirates’ long-standing relationship with GE powerplants:
“Emirates is already the world’s largest customer for GE90 and GP7200 engines. This additional GE9X order reflects their confidence in our technology and our team. We are ready to support Emirates in every way as they leverage the efficiency and durability of the GE9X.”
A Boost for Boeing as the 777X Program Pushes Forward
The renewed commitment from Emirates provides significant momentum for Boeing as it works to stabilize widebody production under its new leadership. The 777X test program continues, with several aircraft performing flight demonstrations at the Dubai Airshow this week.
The EK order will span multi-year delivery timelines and represents a significant pillar of Boeing’s large widebody backlog. As the manufacturer navigates certification hurdles and ongoing supply chain constraints, the deal signals a sustained airline demand for next-generation, high-capacity aircraft.
Stay tuned to Airways for exclusive coverage from our team on the grounds at the Dubai Airshow 2025 #DAS2025.
Featured image: Emirates
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