Boeing’s 777X program continues to face serious delays, with certification now unlikely before 2027—six years behind schedule and far past its original 2020 target. The prolonged setbacks have forced major airline customers, including Emirates and Qatar Airways, to revisit their fleet strategies as international travel demand rebounds.
Comac has unveiled plans to significantly expand its C919 program with two new versions of the aircraft while revising the entry-into-service timeline for its long-range widebody project, the C929. At the Paris Airshow, the Chinese aircraft manufacturer disclosed its intention to introduce a shortened 160-seat variant of the C919 specifically designed for “hot and high” operational…
Air India is evaluating a substantial multi-billion dollar order for new widebody aircraft, reportedly involving between 30 and 40 jets from both the Airbus A350 and Boeing B777X families. Sources indicate that the potential deal could ultimately exceed 50 aircraft.
Riyadh Air is currently in negotiations with Boeing and Airbus to order up to 50 additional widebody aircraft, with both the Airbus A350-1000 and Boeing 777X under consideration. The order would support the airline’s ambitious expansion plans as it works toward establishing Saudi Arabia as a key global aviation hub.
Cathay Pacific, the flagship carrier of Hong Kong, has officially launched a bidding process to acquire new widebody aircraft, with the Airbus A350, Boeing B787, and B777X competing for the order. While the final number of jets to be procured has not been confirmed, this development highlights Cathay Pacific’s commitment to modernizing its fleet.
Boeing has restarted testing of its highly anticipated B777X jet, conducting the aircraft’s first flight since its grounding in August 2024. The fleet was halted following a critical failure in the engine mounting structure, raising significant safety concerns and delaying the program’s progress.
Boeing has resumed production across all airplane programs that were previously halted due to a machinists’ strike in the Pacific Northwest. The affected programs include the B767, B777/777X, and B737 MAX, all of which are now back in operation.
Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, is reportedly working towards finalizing a major aircraft acquisition involving the Boeing B777X or the Airbus A350-1000 by the second quarter of 2025. This potential fleet expansion was disclosed by CEO Tony Douglas, who emphasized Riyadh Air’s commitment to establishing a modern, long-haul fleet capable of meeting future growth objectives.
China Airlines of Taiwan is reportedly close to finalizing a decision to split its upcoming multi-billion-dollar order for 20 widebody aircraft between Boeing’s B777X and Airbus’ A350-1000. This order is aimed at replacing the airline’s 10 aging B777-300ERs while also providing additional capacity for projected growth in passenger demand.
