Boeing Shares Rise After Company Secures Largest Order to Date

Boeing Secures Record $96 Billion Order from Qatar Airways

Boeing shares surged to a 52-week high on Wednesday following the announcement of the company’s largest-ever order, a $96 billion deal with Qatar Airways. The agreement, signed in Doha, involves the purchase of up to 210 Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777X aircraft, all powered by GE Aerospace engines. The White House emphasized the deal’s significance, projecting that it will support approximately 154,000 U.S. jobs annually, amounting to over one million jobs throughout the production and delivery phases. This milestone underscores Boeing’s rapid recovery and highlights its prominent role amid President Trump’s renewed emphasis on international trade and dealmaking.

Recent International Deals and Market Impact

The Qatar Airways order follows a series of substantial international contracts for Boeing in recent weeks. Last week, during the announcement of a US-UK trade agreement, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick referenced a $10 billion aircraft order from British Airways’ parent company, IAG, which analysts described as a precursor to the Qatar deal. Additionally, Boeing revealed an order for up to 30 aircraft from AviLease, a Saudi-based global aircraft lessor. These developments have contributed to a remarkable surge in Boeing’s stock price, which has risen more than 50% since April. Market strategists attribute this rally to President Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariff policy and his administration’s proactive efforts to secure overseas contracts for U.S. manufacturers. Fundstrat strategists noted that the president’s active promotion of Boeing during foreign visits has been a key factor, while Bank of America upgraded Boeing’s rating, citing its central role in ongoing trade negotiations.

Challenges Amid Trade Tensions and Industry Competition

Despite Boeing’s recent successes, the company faces potential challenges on the horizon. Although China lifted its monthlong ban on Boeing deliveries following trade talks in Switzerland, the European Union has threatened tariffs on Boeing aircraft and U.S.-made automobiles if trade disputes with the Trump administration remain unresolved. Such measures could adversely affect Boeing’s sales in the European market. Industry analysts are also closely monitoring potential responses from competitors such as Airbus, though no definitive moves have yet emerged.

Boeing’s resurgence is particularly striking given its difficulties earlier this year. In early 2024, a “door plug” incident on an Alaska Airlines flight led to lawsuits, government investigations, and comprehensive safety and production reforms, culminating in a leadership overhaul. The company’s ability to rebound from these setbacks and secure record-breaking orders marks a significant turnaround.

Meanwhile, President Trump’s relationship with Qatar has attracted attention after the Gulf state offered him a Boeing 747 jet to serve as an interim Air Force One. Trump defended his acceptance of the aircraft, stating, “Only a FOOL would not accept” it on behalf of the country.

As Boeing capitalizes on a wave of international orders and renewed investor confidence, its future will depend heavily on the resolution of ongoing trade negotiations and its capacity to navigate an increasingly complex global environment.