Boeing Secures Record $96B Jet Deal with Qatar Airways Amid Trump’s Gulf Tour

Boeing (NYSE:BA) announced its largest-ever widebody jet order as Qatar Airways placed firm orders for 160 aircraft—130 Dreamliners (787s) and 30 777Xs—plus options for 50 more. Valued at $96 billion, the deal was unveiled during U.S. President Donald Trump’s official visit to Qatar and marks a major win for American aerospace in the Gulf region.

The aircraft will be powered by GE Aerospace engines, including the GEnx for the 787s and the GE9X—the exclusive engine for the 777X. GE Aerospace confirmed the agreement includes 400 engines, its largest order to date, offering a significant boost to the U.S. engine manufacturer. Boeing’s stock rose 0.6%, while GE Aerospace gained 0.7% following the announcement.

This deal comes at a crucial time for Boeing, as it battles rival Airbus in the lucrative long-haul aircraft segment. Airbus has faced setbacks with its A350 model due to maintenance issues in hot climates, giving Boeing a competitive edge in regions like the Gulf. Qatar Airways, which already holds orders for 94 777Xs, remains one of Boeing’s top customers alongside Emirates, which has 205 orders for the model.

The signing ceremony in Doha included President Trump, Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg, and Qatar Airways CEO Badr Mohammed Al-Meer. Trump praised the order as the biggest in Boeing’s history.

Although the 777X is still in development and not expected to begin deliveries until 2026, this landmark deal reaffirms Boeing’s dominance in the widebody market. As of April 30, Boeing has logged 521 orders for the 777X and 828 for the 787, underscoring strong global demand for its long-haul aircraft.