Boeing Confirms Major Orders

It’s been a busy month for Boeing, with the planemaker reporting over 300 aircraft orders, one of its strongest months in recent times.

The order book reached 303 for May in total, the sixth-highest monthly order tally, representing the work that has been conducted to turnaround its fortunes over recent times.

Boeing’s strong performance was aided by the U.S presence across the Middle East during a trade visit, which saw several major orders confirmed.

While there was a strong focus on the order tally, which was solid given Boeing’s troubles, significant progress was also made in rebuilding its production.

Boeing was also able to ensure that it rolled out 38 of the 737 MAX jets, which is a milestone moment as it rebuilds production and attempts to show the Federal Aviation Adminsitration (FAA) that it has turned a corner and is on the improve.

The Major Orders For Boeing

The most significant new commercial order came from Qatar Airways, which is based in Doha. The company committed to 210 aircraft, all of which will be wide-body jets.

The deal, announced in May, represented Qatar Airways’ largest-ever order and set a record for Boeing as its largest order for widebody aircraft.

Boeing confirmed that the order included 130 of the 787 Dreamliners. Meanwhile, Qatar Airways also confirmed it would increase its purchase of the 777X, selecting additional units for the 777-9.

Included in the contract were firm orders, as well as options that could be activated at a later date to secure the airline’s future.

Etihad Airways was next, with a purchase of more aircraft in a bid to develop their Journey 2030 endeavours, which focus on rapidly expanding the fleet, network and employee base.

The carrier confirmed that 28 787 and 777X jets were ordered to enhance the long-haul fleet capabilities and increase its backlog.

Boeing Scores 737 MAX Deals

The efficient but often scrutinised 737 MAX was ordered as part of a new commitment from AviLease, a global aircraft lessor based in Saudi Arabia.

The deal included up to 30 737 MAX jets, with the 737-8 selected as the middle ground to support the leading aircraft lessor’s customer requirements.

Specifically for this deal, the split included 20 firm units and options for 10 more should the lessor’s customers require them later.

Away from the Middle East, WestJet a Canadian carrier also confirmed it would enhance its commitment to the 737 MAX with a deal being struck for seven additional units.