Cathay Pacific Expands Fleet with $8.1 Billion Boeing 777-9 Order

Cathay Pacific has ordered 14 additional Boeing 777-9 jets, a $8.1 billion deal before discounts. The order includes long-term maintenance for GE9X engines. Boeing's stock forecast shows potential growth with analysts offering optimistic price targets.

Cathay Pacific has recently committed to purchasing 14 additional Boeing 777-9 passenger jets, marking a significant addition to its fleet. The deal, valued at approximately $8.1 billion before discounts, includes long-term maintenance for the GE9X engines that will power these aircraft. This order comes as Boeing continues to navigate the complexities of certifying the 777X family and securing new orders.

The 777-9 variant is part of Boeing's latest generation of aircraft, designed to offer advanced aerodynamics, increased efficiency, and enhanced passenger comfort. Cathay Pacific's order is expected to further reduce the airline's operating costs by leveraging the 777-9's fuel and noise reduction capabilities. The aircraft's range of up to 7,295 nautical miles allows Cathay Pacific to expand its long and ultra-long-haul routes, connecting passengers directly between Hong Kong and global destinations.

Ronald Lam, Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer, expressed his optimism about the order, stating, "We plan to expand and renew our fleet with the additional 777-9 aircraft, enabling us to continue our rich history of connecting the world with our Hong Kong hub." Brad McMullen, Boeing's senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the 777-9's value and Cathay Pacific's tradition of delivering exceptional comfort and connectivity.

The order also includes a service agreement for GE9X engines, which are the world's most powerful commercial aircraft engines. The GE9X offers a 10% improvement in specific fuel consumption compared to its predecessor, the GE90-115B, and features emissions that are a generation ahead in technology. This engine will be crucial for Cathay Pacific's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and operate more sustainably.

The stock market has responded positively to the news, with analysts offering optimistic price targets for Boeing. The order is a significant boost for Boeing's order book, which currently stands at over 550 Boeing 777X aircraft. As Boeing continues to work towards certifying the 777X family, the company is likely to face challenges, including the recent FAA's new carbon reduction rule that affects large aircraft, including the 777X.

Cathay Pacific's order underscores the growing demand for advanced, fuel-efficient aircraft in the aviation industry. As airlines seek to modernize their fleets and reduce operating costs, the Boeing 777-9's capabilities make it an attractive option. Boeing's ability to secure such a large order from Cathay Pacific, one of the world's top airlines, is a testament to the aircraft's potential and Boeing's strong position in the market.

References:
[1] https://www.aerotime.aero/tag/boeing-777x
[2] https://economyclassandbeyond.boardingarea.com/2025/08/06/cathay-pacific-to-order-14-boeing-777-9/
[3] https://finance.yahoo.com/news/cathay-pacific-signs-agreement-more-051800389.html