Emirates, has signed a US$ 52 billion contract at the Dubai Airshow 2023 to acquire 95 additional Boeing wide-body jets expanding total order book to 295 aircraft.
Emirates, one of the world’s largest and most prominent airlines, has made a significant announcement at the Dubai Airshow 2023, revealing its plan to acquire 95 additional Boeing wide-body aircraft. This development expands Emirates’ total order book to an impressive 295 aircraft, reaffirming its position as a global aviation leader.
The announcement was made in the presence of high-profile dignitaries, including HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, HH Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, and Deputy Ruler of Dubai, as well as HH Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council.
The deal, valued at US$ 52 billion, focuses on additional Boeing aircraft, including the 777-9s, 777-8s, and 787s. Emirates, which already holds the distinction of being the world’s largest operator of wide-body passenger aircraft, aims to use these new acquisitions to power its growth plans, maintain a modern and efficient fleet, and enhance the overall flying experience for its customers.
HH Sheikh Ahmed, Crown Prince, Dubai said, “From day 1, Emirates’ business model has been to operate modern and efficient wide-body aircraft capable of carrying large numbers of travellers comfortably and safely, over long distances to and via Dubai. Today’s aircraft orders reflect that strategy. These additional aircraft will enable Emirates to connect even more cities, supporting the Dubai economic agenda D33 set out by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to add 400 cities to Dubai’s foreign trade map over the next decade. By the early 2030s, we expect the Emirates fleet to be around 350-strong, connecting Dubai to even more cities around the world.”
With the first 777-9 expected to join Emirates’ fleet in 2025 from a previous order of 115 units, the additional orders extend the induction of new 777-9s until 2035. Notably, Emirates is set to become one of the launch customers for the 777-8 passenger variant, with the first deliveries anticipated in 2030.
HH Sheikh Ahmed, Crown Prince, Dubai said, “Emirates is the biggest operator of Boeing 777 aircraft, and today’s order cements that position. We’ve been closely involved in the 777 program since its start up until this latest generation of 777X aircraft. The 777 has been central to Emirates’ fleet and network strategy of connecting cities on all continents non-stop to Dubai. We are pleased to extend our relationship with Boeing and look forward to the first 777-9 joining our fleet in 2025.”
The Boeing 777 has been a cornerstone of Emirates’ operations, capable of conducting missions of up to 18 hours, connecting Dubai non-stop to cities on six continents. The new 777-9s and 777-8s are slated to replace Emirates’ retiring 777 aircraft, accommodating the airline’s future growth plans.
In addition to the Boeing order, Emirates updated its previous commitment for 30 Boeing 787-9s, increasing its total commitment to 35 Dreamliners. This comprises 15 Boeing 787-10s and 20 Boeing 787-8s, reflecting the airline’s diversified fleet strategy.
“This order is an incredible vote of confidence in the efficiency and versatility of the 777X family to meet Emirates’ needs for global long-haul travel,” said Stan Deal, President and CEO, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “The 777-9 and 777-8 are the perfect airplanes to support Emirates’ growth plans, improving environmental performance and unmatched payload capability,” he further added.
Emirates’ substantial order at the Dubai Airshow underscores its commitment to remaining at the forefront of the aviation industry. As the airline charts its path toward the future, these acquisitions not only position Emirates as a key player in the global aviation landscape but also contribute to the broader vision of connecting the world through Dubai.
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This strategic move aligns with Emirates’ ambitious growth plans, emphasizing its role as a driver of economic development in Dubai and beyond. The airline’s commitment to a modern, efficient, and diversified fleet reflects its dedication to delivering unparalleled travel experiences and maintaining its status as a symbol of excellence in the aviation industry.
