Boeing has announced its biggest-ever widebody aircraft order after reaching an agreement with Qatar Airways for the purchase of up to 210 planes. The signing ceremony took place in Doha, in the presence of U.S. President Donald Trump, Qatar’s Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg.
Under the deal, Qatar Airways will buy 130 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 30 777-9 jets, with options for 50 more aircraft. The agreement is also the largest aircraft order in the airline’s history.
The White House estimated the value of the deal at $96 billion, stating it would support over 1 million U.S. jobs, while Boeing projected around 400,000 new jobs will result from the order. The planes are expected to be assembled at Boeing’s Charleston, South Carolina facility.
Qatar Airways also signed a separate deal with GE Aerospace for more than 400 engines, the largest such order in GE’s history, to power the newly ordered Boeing aircraft.
A Boost for Boeing’s Struggling Business
This major order comes as a relief for Boeing, which has not turned a profit since 2018. The company has faced multiple setbacks, including safety concerns, manufacturing flaws, and a machinist strike. Additionally, international sales were affected by trade tensions with China, which halted Boeing deliveries due to U.S. tariffs.
Boeing CEO Ortberg said the company is working to reduce its losses while handling a backlog worth over $500 billion.
Boeing Commercial Airplanes CEO Stephanie Pope called the Qatar Airways order “record-breaking,” saying it places Boeing’s widebody jets at the heart of the airline’s future fleet.
Strategic Expansion for Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways currently operates a fleet of 233 aircraft. This new deal could nearly double its size, supporting its goal to expand global connectivity.
“This is a critical step for Qatar Airways as we invest in the cleanest, youngest, and most efficient fleet,” said CEO Badr Mohammed Al-Meer. “This will help us meet high demand and connect passengers to the world better than anyone.”
Political Controversy Over Presidential Jet Gift
The deal has sparked controversy in the U.S. over Qatar’s offer to gift a luxury Boeing 747 to be used as the new Air Force One. President Trump’s acceptance of the aircraft has led to criticism from both Democrats and Republicans, with opponents calling the gesture unconstitutional and inappropriate.
Some lawmakers say the gift raises ethical concerns, especially during a time when Boeing is working closely with the federal government on military and commercial contracts.
Despite the scrutiny, Senator Lindsey Graham praised the deal, calling it a “gamechanger” for Boeing and South Carolina.
