Donald Trump did not wait for the ink to dry on the various contracts signed between Boeing and three Middle Eastern companies. In his sophisticated language, the US President declared as soon as he left Qatar and Saudi Arabia that " the trip was fabulous. We raised hundreds of billions of dollars in investment for our country and negotiated with good people, who had been somewhat abandoned by the United States previously..
Qatar Airways takes centre stage
In fact, the American President played the role of salesman to great effect, particularly in Qatar. His visit triggered the largest aircraft order in Boeing's history by the national airline Qatar Airways. This includes up to 210 Boeing wide-body aircraft - 160 firm and 50 optional. With 130 devices and 50 options, it is also the largest order ever for a 787 Dreamliner in Boeing's history. It is completed by 30 Boeing B777-9s and an option for 50 777-Xs.
Contrary to what Donald Trump said about the value of the order ($200 billion, then $96 billion), the official Qatar Airways press release does not give a figure. But the investment remains massive.
Boeing signs another order with AviLease in Saudi Arabiaan aircraft leasing company owned by a Saudi wealth management and investment fund. It concerns 30 Boeing 737-8 aircraft including 10 options.
Etihad takes its turn courting Boeing
Donald Trump's arrival in the United Arab Emirates has also resulted in another order for the American aircraft manufacturer. The company Etihad also announced the purchase of 28 wide-body aircraft. The order consists of Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the all-new Boeing 777X.
Since 2023, the Abu Dhabi carrier has continually strengthened its fleet with the ambition to double its size by 2030. These aircraft are due to join the fleet from 2028 and will support the carrier's plans to boost itsAbu Dhabi thanks to improved connectivity and an exceptional product for travellers.
" This commitment reflects the careful management of our fleet and its expansion in line with commercial demand and our long-term network plans." says Antonoaldo Neves, CEO Etihad Airways.
Emirates awaits the next Dubai Air Show
The great absentee from these massive orders for Boeing following the US President's tour is Emirates. But it is mainly due to a massive previous order in 2023. At the 2023 Dubai Air Show, the airline added 90 Boeing 777-8s and 9s to its previous order. As well as 30 Boeing 787 Dreamliners. That's a total order of 240 aircraft for the American aircraft manufacturer.
In an interview with the Bloomberg press agency, However, company chairman Tim Clark stressed that aircraft delivery dates remained a challenge. in fleet management. Emirates is nevertheless expected to announce new orders at the Dubai Air Show in November. However, Tim Clark believes that the future aircraft ordered will not join the Emirates fleet until after 2035.
