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Emirates Expresses Cautious Optimism for 777X Deliveries in 2027

Emirates Expresses Cautious Optimism for 777X Deliveries in 2027
Progress and Expectations for the Boeing 777X
At the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) 81st annual general meeting in India, Emirates President Tim Clark conveyed a cautiously optimistic outlook regarding the delivery of Boeing’s next-generation 777X widebody aircraft. The Dubai-based airline, which holds over 200 orders for the 777X, is awaiting the completion of the aircraft’s certification process before it enters service. Clark indicated that Emirates anticipates receiving its first 777X by early 2027, a timeline that would support the airline’s plans for further growth and network expansion. Reports suggest that deliveries could occur between the third or fourth quarter of 2026 and the first quarter of 2027, with Boeing providing increasingly clear indications about this schedule.
Clark expressed confidence in Boeing’s commitment, noting, “I’m quite impressed with the energy, the concern they have about getting that done. That’s why I was cautiously optimistic because they weren’t just talking the talk, they were walking the talk.” His remarks underscored a renewed sense of determination within Boeing to meet its delivery commitments.
Engagement with Boeing Leadership and Inspection Plans
During the meeting, Clark referenced a recent discussion with Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg, praising the leadership’s efforts to revitalize the company and advance the 777X program. He highlighted Ortberg’s determination and earnestness in addressing the challenges facing the aircraft’s development. Looking ahead, Clark plans to visit Boeing’s facilities in Seattle in September 2025 to personally assess the progress of the 777X and its certification milestones.
Historical Context and Delays
Emirates’ relationship with the 777X dates back to July 2014, when the airline placed an order for 150 aircraft—comprising 115 777-9s and 35 777-8s—in what was then the largest commercial jetliner product launch in history, valued at $56 billion. Since then, Emirates has secured purchase rights for an additional 50 units, bringing its total outstanding order to 200 aircraft. The initial delivery was scheduled for 2020; however, a series of setbacks—including certification delays, Boeing’s quality assurance challenges, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic—have postponed the timeline significantly. Had the original schedule been maintained, Emirates would now be operating approximately 80 of the 777-9s.
Certification Progress and Future Outlook
Under the terms of the contract, Boeing was obligated to deliver the first 777X to Emirates by October 2025, a target that now appears unattainable. Nevertheless, with the aircraft actively progressing through certification, Clark acknowledged a renewed sense of hope, describing a “glimmer of light” for the program’s advancement. Should the 777X successfully complete its ETOPS (extended twin-engine operations) certification flight tests by the first quarter of 2026, it is conceivable that the aircraft could enter service shortly thereafter, marking a significant milestone for both Boeing and Emirates.

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