Emirates announced at the Dubai Airshow 2023 today a significant expansion of its fleet, with an order for 95 additional wide-body aircraft. This new order elevates the airline’s total aircraft order book to 295, maintaining its status as the world’s largest operator of wide-body passenger jets. The deal, worth US$ 52 billion, includes additional Boeing 777-9s, 777-8s, and 787s.
The agreement was signed at an event graced by Dubai’s royalty and top executives from Emirates, Boeing, and General Electric’s GE Aerospace. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum remarked on the strategic vision of the airline, emphasizing the alignment with Dubai’s economic agenda, D33, which aims to expand the city’s global trade reach. The airline is planning for a future with around 350 aircraft by the early 2030s, aimed at connecting Dubai to 400 new cities.
The new order consists of 55 Boeing 777-9s and 35 777-8s, bringing the total 777-X orders to 205. Alongside the planes, Emirates also confirmed an order for 202 GE9X engines, which powers the 777X, summing their total engine order to 460. The first of the newly ordered 777-9s is set to join Emirates’ fleet in 2025, with the airline introducing new models into its lineup over the next decade.
Sheikh Ahmed expressed confidence in the Boeing 777 program and its crucial role in Emirates’ strategy. Stan Deal, President, and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, echoed this sentiment, noting the 777X family’s efficiency and capacity as ideal for Emirates’ long-haul travel needs. The new aircraft will replace retiring models and support the airline’s expansion plans.
Emirates has also revisited its earlier order of Boeing 787-9s, now increasing its total Dreamliner commitment to 35, consisting of both the 787-10 and 787-8 variants.
