US President Donald Trump announced a landmark $96 billion aircraft order by Qatar Airways from Boeing, calling it a “record-breaking deal” during his visit to Doha on Wednesday. This deal is Boeing’s largest ever for wide-body jets and includes 160 planes with options for 50 more.
Boeing Secures Largest Wide-Body Jet Order
The deal includes 130 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 30 Boeing 777-9 aircraft. All jets will be powered by GE Aerospace engines. A White House fact sheet called it Boeing’s “largest-ever widebody order and largest-ever 787 order.” The agreement also offers the option to purchase 50 additional 787 and 777X planes in the future.
Trump Signs Multiple Deals in Doha
Trump signed several agreements alongside Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, including the Boeing deal and a defence agreement for American MQ-9B drones. Trump said, “It’s over $200 billion but 160 in terms of the jets. That’s fantastic. So that’s a record.”
Boeing’s Long Road to Delivery
While the order is significant, industry analysts have noted that Boeing will not receive revenues immediately due to a large backlog in aircraft manufacturing. Deliveries are expected to take at least five years, with the 777X still pending certification from the Federal Aviation Administration.
Boeing’s commercial plane chief Stephanie Pope said, “We are deeply honored that Qatar Airways has placed this record-breaking order with Boeing, one that solidifies their future fleet.”
Qatar Airways’ Bet on Boeing Amid Industry Challenges
Since 2016, Boeing has received 118 gross orders from Qatar Airways and has delivered 65 planes. The airline praised the fuel efficiency of the new 777X aircraft, which will reportedly reduce fuel consumption and emissions by 25 percent compared to older models.
The announcement marks a win for Boeing’s new CEO Kelly Ortberg, who took charge in August 2024 amid quality control and safety challenges. Ortberg, who joined Trump at the signing ceremony, has promised to improve Boeing’s manufacturing and safety standards.
Political Controversy Over Qatar’s Ties With Trump
Trump’s visit to Qatar also drew political attention after reports that Qatar offered him a $400 million luxury jet. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer raised concerns, calling the offer a “grave national security threat” and vowing to block Trump’s Justice Department appointees in protest.
As part of his Gulf tour, Trump previously visited Riyadh, where he announced the lifting of sanctions on Syria and held talks with the country’s president.
