On May 13, Qatar Airways signed the biggest Boeing deal by placing firm orders for 160 jetliners with additional options to purchase 50 more aircraft amid Trump's visit to the Gulf. The deal is worth $96 billion for 787 and 777X models.
Qatar Airways-Boeing Deal
Deal | Model | Number of Jets | Engine Type |
May 14, 2025 | 787 | 130 (firm) | GE GEnx |
|---|---|---|---|
777X | 30 (firm) | GE9X (Only Option) | |
787/777X | 50 (Options) | GE GEnx / GE9X | |
Since 2013 | 777X | 94 | GE9X (Only Option) |
This deal is critically analysed and reviewed by aerodynamic advisors as it would take years for Boeing to deliver these aircraft, and there is no mention of discounts in the sale pricing of Boeing, which is usually included in aircraft deals. Richard Aboulafia, managing director of US-based consultancy firm Aerodynamic Advisory, has declared this deal a politically savvy move for Qatar Airways. However, while noting that airlines often make orders for delivery dates far into the future, he added
"It doesn't indicate an accelerated need for aircraft or that Boeing has won any battle,"
Boeing Stocks Surged
As the news of the deal broke on Wall Street, Boeing’s share rose to 0.64%. In the past week the company experienced a 9.6% rise along with 28.5% hike during the past month. Meanwhile, GE Aerospace gained 0.7%.
Qatar Airways Choose GE Aerospace Engines
As Airbus’s A350, powered by Rolls-Royce engine, is struggling with maintenance problems from operating in hot climates, including the Gulf region, Qatar Airways opted for GE Aerospace's GEnx engines. Notably, GE Aerospace's GE9X is the only engine option for the 777X.
Trump’s Gulf Visit
Trump is currently on a visit to the Gulf's richest countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and UAE. Previously, Nvidia signed 18,000 cutting-edge AI chip deals with Saudi company Humain after Trump’s visit to the royal kingdom.
