Boeing has had a strong start to proceedings at the Dubai Air Show 2023, with multiple orders announced.
The carrier is currently fighting against Airbus for as much market share in the Middle East market and beyond.
Without further ado, let’s get into it…
SunExpress Orders Up to 90 737 MAX Aircraft…
Boeing started out proceedings by announcing a major order with SunExpress for up to 90 737 MAX aircraft.
This deal breaks down into 45 firm orders, being 28 MAX 8s and 17 MAX 10s, with options for another 45 aircraft.
It is understood that the options are for MAX 8s specifically. This new commitment builds on an existing order for 42 737-8 aircraft, which brings their total orderbook of the variant to up to 132 aircraft if all options are exercised.
“Building on the resounding success of our strategy in the post-pandemic period, SunExpress is now poised for next-level growth to meet market demand and achieve a greater international footprint,” said Max Kownatzki, SunExpress CEO.
“Over the next decade, we will more than double our fleet, reaching a 150-aircraft fleet by 2033. Also, the addition of the 737-10, the newest 737 MAX plane with up to 230 seats, to our fleet will allow us to strengthen our capacity further.”
“SunExpress is well-positioned for the future and will expand its network with a more fuel-efficient and environmentally sustainable aircraft fleet, while continuing to fulfill its role as Türkiye’s tourism ambassador.”
Adding to this was Stan Deal, President & CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes:
“SunExpress’s continued commitment to the 737 MAX reflects its confidence in the airplane’s capability to meet demand from travelers to popular destinations across Türkiye and beyond”.
“The 737 MAX is a proven airplane on the SunExpress network, delivering unmatched fuel efficiency and reliability.”
Emirates Purchases 125 Aircraft, 777X & 787s Ordered…
Another major order was announced on Day 1 at the Dubai Air Show, with Emirates placing an order for up to 125 widebody aircraft.
This was broken down into the following:
- 55 777-9Xs from 2025.
- 35 777-8Xs from 2030.
- 15 787-10s.
- 20 787-8s.
On the 787 front, there is a firm order for five new units, with the other 30 being conversion orders made.
“Emirates is the biggest operator of Boeing 777 aircraft, and today’s order cements that position,” said HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group.
“We’ve been closely involved in the 777 program since its start up until this latest generation of 777X aircraft.”
“The 777 has been central to Emirates’ fleet and network strategy of connecting cities on all continents non-stop to Dubai.”
“We are pleased to extend our relationship with Boeing and look forward to the first 777-9 joining our fleet in 2025.”
“This order is an incredible vote of confidence in Boeing’s highly efficient widebody family and the versatility of our 777X and 787 airplanes to meet Emirates’ needs for global long-haul travel,” said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
“The 777-9 and 777-8 are the perfect airplanes to support Emirates’ growth, improving environmental performance and unmatched payload capability along the way.”
flydubai Steps Into the Realm of Widebodies…
Straight after the blockbuster Emirates order, flydubai announced a deal with Boeing for 30 787-9 Dreamliners at the Dubai Air Show.
This will be the first time that the aircraft steps into the arena of widebodies, as the airline seeks further growth going into the future.
“In 2008 when we placed our first-ever order for 50 Boeing 737 aircraft, we were confident of the vital role flydubai would play in supporting Dubai’s aviation hub,” said His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of flydubai.
“I am proud today to see flydubai evolve further, surpassing labels and challenging the traditional conventions around travel.”
“Today’s order reaffirms flydubai’s commitment to enabling more people to travel across its expanding network.”
“The highly fuel-efficient Boeing 787 Dreamliner will allow flydubai to expand its horizon and cater to the growing demand on existing routes.”
“Innovation is at the heart of everything we do at flydubai. We are committed to offering the right product at the right time to cater to the changing market and customer needs,” said Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai.
“The Boeing 787 Dreamliner offers a perfect combination of operational excellence, fuel efficiency as well as passenger appeal.”
“The 787-9 is perfectly suited for the needs of flydubai as it looks to open up longer-range routes and add capacity across its network,” said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
“flydubai passengers will enjoy the Dreamliner effect, an experience like no other in the air, flying with more comfort and arriving at their destinations feeling more refreshed.”
Royal Jordanian Signs for Four 787 Dreamliners…
Boeing then unveiled an order for four Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners destined for Royal Jordanian Airlines, as the carrier’s growth warrants further long-haul expansion.
“Our decision to add the 787-9 Dreamliners to our fleet is a testament to our dedication to providing an unparalleled travel experience,” said Samer Majali, vice chairman and CEO of Royal Jordanian.
“This move aligns seamlessly with our broader strategy of fleet modernization, emphasizing fuel efficiency, sustainability and passenger comfort.”
“As we embark on this journey, we are confident that the Dreamliner’s cutting-edge technology will play a pivotal role in elevating our operational capabilities.”
“Royal Jordanian, having been the first in the Middle East to order the 787 over 16 years ago, continues to lead in adopting advancements in aviation,” said Majali.
“The airline’s current fleet of seven 787-8 Dreamliners has proven successful in connecting Amman to major global destinations.”
“The additional order underscores Royal Jordanian’s forward-looking approach and commitment to meeting the growing demand for long-haul travel.”
“This order for additional 787s is a testament to Royal Jordanian’s longstanding commitment to the market-leading capabilities of the Dreamliner,” said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
“We are confident Royal Jordanian will profitably expand its network and operate a more sustainable fleet with these new fuel-efficient jets.”
Royal Air Maroc Confirms Existing Order for Two 787s…
Boeing then announced the confirmation of an existing order for two Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft with Royal Air Maroc at the Dubai Air Show.
The order was previously an unidentified customer via the Boeing website, so will not be added to the overall scoreboard.
“The two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners will enable Royal Air Maroc to expand in the short-term its long-haul network in response to the highly favorable market conditions in 2023,” said Abdelhamid Addou, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Royal Air Maroc.
“Simultaneously, the company is actively pursuing a significant tender to quadruple the fleet before 2037.”
“The 787 Dreamliner is perfectly suited to support Royal Air Maroc’s growth and modernization plans,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing.
“Boeing’s relationship with the airline spans more than five decades, and we look forward to more opportunities to strengthen our partnership with Royal Air Maroc.”
Overall…
It’s been a strong start to the Dubai Air Show by Boeing, announcing a plethora of orders to the media today.
All eyes will be on tommorow to see where such momentum continues, or whether we will see a quieter day from them on that front.
Be sure to stay tuned to our live coverage on AviationSource.
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