Boeing has officially confirmed the first delivery of its highly anticipated 777X widebody jet. This major milestone is scheduled for 2026, marking the dawn of a new chapter for the aerospace giant.
Despite this promising announcement, the company faces significant financial hurdles, with substantial Q4 2024 losses and ongoing challenges in its commercial and defense divisions.
Boeing 777X First Delivery
The 777X, Boeing’s next-generation widebody aircraft, has received 481 orders from 13 operators and unidentified customers so far. Featuring cutting-edge technology, including composite wings with folding wingtips, the 777X series promises enhanced fuel efficiency and extended range, positioning it as a strong competitor to the Airbus A350.
Below is the detailed breakdown of Boeing 777X orders as of January 2025:
| Customer Name | Country | Region | Orders |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air India | India | South Asia | 10 |
| All Nippon Airways (ANA) | Japan | East Asia | 18 |
| British Airways | United Kingdom | Europe | 18 |
| Cargolux Airlines | Luxembourg | Europe | 10 |
| Cathay Pacific Airways | China | East Asia | 21 |
| Emirates | United Arab Emirates | Middle East | 205 |
| Ethiopian Airlines | Ethiopia | Africa | 8 |
| Etihad Airways | United Arab Emirates | Middle East | 25 |
| Lufthansa | Germany | Europe | 27 |
| Qatar Airways | Qatar | Middle East | 94 |
| Silk Way West Airlines | Azerbaijan | Central Asia | 2 |
| Singapore Airlines | Singapore | Southeast Asia | 31 |
| Unidentified Customer(s) | Unspecified | Unspecified | 12 |
The first delivery, initially planned for 2020, has been delayed multiple times due to supply chain disruptions, technical challenges, and labor strikes.
Emirates remains the largest customer with 205 orders, followed by Qatar Airways with 94 orders and Singapore Airlines with 31 orders.
Boeing’s Financial Challenges, Q4 2024 Performance
Boeing’s Q4 2024 earnings report revealed a projected loss of $5.46 per share, operating cash outflows of $3.5 billion, and $15.2 billion in revenue. These numbers reflect ongoing disruptions, including:
- IAM Labor Strike: The International Association of Machinists’ work stoppage significantly impacted production timelines, adding $900 million in charges to the 777X program.
- Defense Program Charges: Pre-tax charges totaling $1.7 billion affected multiple programs, including the KC-46A tanker and T-7A trainer jet.
Despite these setbacks, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg emphasized the company’s commitment to stabilizing operations and resuming production across all major aircraft lines, including the 777X.
Boeing 777X Flight Testing Resumes
Boeing resumed 777X flight testing on January 15, 2025, following a hiatus due to engine mounting structure failures. Although the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was not present during the test flights, this marks progress toward the aircraft’s long-awaited certification.
The 777X family includes the 777-9, a stretched version of the 777-300ER, and the 777-8, which offers even greater range. The freighter variant, also in development, is expected to meet growing demand for cargo capacity.
The production of the legendary Boeing 777-300ER concluded in late 2024 after nearly two decades. For decades to come, the 777-300ER will remain one of the best-selling widebody jets in aviation history. Boeing’s focus now shifts entirely to the 777X program, reflecting the company’s strategic evolution in long-haul aircraft production.
Boeing’s Competitive Edge
Despite challenges, Boeing positions the 777X as a superior alternative to its competitors, particularly the Airbus A350. The 777X boasts a 10% reduction in operating costs per seat and a 12% improvement in fuel efficiency.
With major customers like Emirates and Qatar Airways reaffirming their commitment to the aircraft, Boeing is optimistic about the 777X’s future success.
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