Qatar Airways widebody jet purchase has sent shockwaves through the global aviation industry, with the airline committing to buy up to 210 Boeing aircraft in a massive $96 billion agreement. Announced during U.S. President Donald Trump’s diplomatic visit to Doha, the deal not only boosts Boeing’s global standing but also represents the largest widebody engine transaction in GE Aerospace’s history.
The agreement includes 130 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 30 next-generation 777X jets, with options for 50 more aircraft. Both aircraft types will be powered exclusively by GE Aerospace engines, sidelining rival Rolls-Royce, whose Trent 1000 has faced performance issues in extreme heat, a key concern for Gulf-based carriers. Trump hailed the contract as a “historic win” for American industry, touting it during a ceremonial signing alongside Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and Boeing executives.
210 Boeing Aircraft Deal is Largest-Ever Deal for GE Aerospace
This deal reflects Qatar Airways’ aggressive post-pandemic expansion strategy and a clear signal of confidence in Boeing’s widebody fleet. For GE Aerospace, it means 400 engines, marking its largest-ever widebody engine deal, according to CEO Larry Culp. The move bolsters GE’s dominance just as its European competitor grapples with setbacks in hot-weather performance and supply chain delays.
The timing couldn’t be more strategic. With regional rivals like Emirates already holding significant 777X orders, Qatar Airways is securing its place in the long-haul travel market for decades to come. Though Boeing’s 777X is still in development and delayed until at least 2026, airlines like Qatar are banking on future capacity and fuel efficiency to support growth on key routes.
Order Raises Questions, Despite Big Headlines
Despite the headline value, analysts remain cautious. Boeing no longer releases official pricing, and industry insiders note that discounts on such bulk deals are often steep. It also remains unclear how many of the orders are firm commitments versus optional.
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