Etihad Airways Confirms Order for 28 Boeing Aircraft
In a strategic move that strengthens aerospace cooperation between the United States and the United Arab Emirates, Etihad Airways has confirmed an order for 28 wide-body Boeing aircraft equipped with General Electric (GE) engines. The deal, valued at $14.5 billion, was announced by the White House.
A Partnership Strengthening the Aerospace Industry
The announcement, made by U.S. President Donald Trump, is part of a series of agreements between the two nations totaling over $200 billion. This transaction not only represents a significant investment by the Abu Dhabi-based airline but also reinforces ties between U.S. manufacturers and one of the Gulf’s most dynamic aviation markets.
According to the official statement, the order includes Boeing 787 models and the new 777X, all powered by GE Aerospace engines. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2028.
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Fleet Renewal and Long-Term Vision
Etihad explained that the purchase aligns with its modernization and expansion strategy, aimed at adapting its fleet to future operational needs. Currently, the airline operates a fleet of approximately 100 aircraft but projects sustained growth.
Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad, stated last month that 20 to 22 new aircraft will be added this year, with the goal of exceeding 170 operational aircraft by 2030.
Of the total planned for 2025, ten units will be Airbus A321LRs, which will begin operations in August. The fleet update also includes six Airbus A350s and four Boeing 787s.
Regional Context: Multi-Billion Dollar Agreements
This announcement comes during an active week for the aerospace sector in the region. On Wednesday, Boeing secured its largest wide-body aircraft deal with Qatar Airways, which signed a firm order for 160 aircraft, with options to acquire 50 more, totaling $96 billion, as reported by the White House.
Both agreements highlight the Gulf’s strategic importance in the commercial aviation market and underscore the United States’ role as a key supplier of aeronautical technology.
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