• Emirates places a $38 billion order for 65 Boeing 777-9 jets, reinforcing its status as the largest operator of the model.
• The deal brings Emirates' total orders for the 777X family to 270 aircraft, with deliveries starting in 2027.
• Emirates also commits to purchasing 130 GE9X engines, essential for the new aircraft.
• The agreement allows for options to convert orders to larger variants if Boeing proceeds with development.
• Emirates is aiming to meet soaring demand for air travel through its Dubai hub while supporting jobs and economic growth.

Emirates has announced a substantial order for 65 Boeing 777-9 jets valued at $38 billion, marking a pivotal moment at the opening of the Dubai Airshow. With this transaction, Emirates strengthens its position as the largest customer for Boeing's flagship wide-body aircraft, having now ordered a total of 270 Boeing 777X jets. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Emirates' chairman and chief executive, emphasized that this "long-term commitment supports hundreds of thousands of high-value factory jobs," especially given that this order occurs despite ongoing delays in aircraft deliveries, projected to begin from the second quarter of 2027, according to Reuters, India Times, and Los Angeles Times.

The recent aircraft order comes at a time when Emirates continues to expand its fleet amidst a backdrop of increasing demand for air travel. Following the order, it will also be receiving 130 GE9X engines, which are integral to the 777X series. Sheikh Ahmed assured that each aircraft in the massive order has been "carefully factored into Emirates’ growth plans," reflecting confidence in the airline's strategy for navigating delivery delays and maintaining a robust fleet, as highlighted by India Times and Reuters.

Furthermore, the agreement includes options for Emirates to switch its latest orders to larger variants, such as the 777-10, should Boeing decide to develop these models. This flexibility reflects Emirates' aspiration to innovate and modernize its fleet in line with industry trends that favor larger, more efficient aircraft. The partnership is poised to reinforce Emirates' longstanding relationship with Boeing, an element that Sheikh Ahmed expressed pride in, according to Reuters, India Times, and Los Angeles Times.