Boeing has launched the new 777-8 freighter and expanded its 777X and freighter families of jetliners with an order for up to 50 aircraft from Qatar Airways.
Qatar Airways will be the 777-8 freighter launch customer with a firm order for 34 jets and options for 16 more, a total purchase that would be worth more than US$20 billion at current list prices. The order also supports hundreds of US suppliers from across 38 states and will sustain more than 35,000 US jobs and provide the American economy with an annual estimated economic impact of US$2.6 billion during the contract’s delivery period.
With payload capacity nearly identical to the Boeing747-400 freighter and a 25% improvement in fuel efficiency, emissions and operating costs, the 777-8 freighter will enable a more sustainable and profitable business for operators. First delivery of the new freighter is anticipated in 2027.
As part of the agreement, Qatar Airways will convert 20 of its 60 777X-family orders to the 777-8 freighter. Qatar Airways is also ordering two current 777 freighters to capitalize on the buoyant air cargo market.
Boeing and Qatar Airways also signed a Memorandum of Understanding for a firm order of 25 Boeing 737-10 aircraft and purchase rights for 25 additional airplanes. The largest model in the MAX family, the 737-10 seats up to 230 passengers in a single-class configuration and can fly up to 3,300 miles. The fuel-efficient jet can cover 99% of single-aisle routes around the world.
