Emirates Airline expects to firm its commitment for up to 200 777-9Xs very soon, after completing discussions around the aircraft’s technical aspects with Boeing and General Electric.
“We’re very close to [firming the order],” says Tim Clark, president of the Dubai carrier. “It’s been a detailed grind with Boeing. We just wanted to make absolutely sure that we got this aeroplane as it should be.”
He adds that discussions with GE around the technical aspects of the 777X’s GE9X powerplant are also “just about done”.
Emirates was among the three Gulf carriers that placed launch commitments for the new 777X family at the Dubai air show in November 2013, with a deal for 150 firm and 50 purchase rights. Local rivals Qatar Airways and Etihad signed for 50 and 25 orders, respectively. Deliveries are due to begin in 2020.
The 777X family comprises two passenger variants – the 400-seat 777-9X and ultra long-range 777-8X – and the 777X Freighter. Other customers include All Nippon Airways, Cathay Pacific and Lufthansa.
Source: Cirium Dashboard
