Emirates Expands Boeing 777-9 Fleet with 130 New GE9X Engines

In a noteworthy development within the aviation sector, Emirates Airlines has officially signed an agreement with GE Aerospace for the purchase of 130 GE9X engines. This order aims to power the airline's expanding fleet of Boeing 777-9 aircraft, which continues to see surging demand. This contract not only secures Emirates' position as the world's largest GE9X customer with a total of over 540 engines ordered but also reinforces a long-standing partnership that spans more than 40 years.

The announcement was made on November 17, 2025, revealing that this deal encompasses additional spare engines along with a comprehensive long-term services contract, indicating a robust commitment to maintenance and support, ensuring operational efficiency in the years to come. Emirates, renowned for its expansive route network covering over 140 destinations across six continents, is already the leading operator of Boeing 777 aircraft globally.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Group, expressed pride in the airline’s extensive investment in the Boeing 777-9 and the GE9X engines, describing it as a substantial commitment valued at approximately USD 38 billion. He emphasized the importance of this partnership not only with Boeing but also with GE Aerospace, highlighting their joint contribution to the growth and innovation within the U.S. aerospace industry.

On the technology front, the GE9X engine is recognized as the world’s most powerful commercial aircraft engine, featuring advanced fuel efficiency and an environmentally considerate design with significantly reduced emissions compared to its predecessors. It requires a mere 10% more efficient fuel consumption relative to the previous GE90-115B engine. This remarkable feat of engineering showcases extensive testing before entering service, including over 1,700 dust ingestion cycles aimed at validating its durability and performance, particularly in challenging operational environments typical of the Middle East.

The partnership also extends to sustainable aviation efforts. The GE9X engine has received certification to operate on approved Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blends, contributing to a more sustainable future for air travel. GE Aerospace’s presence in the UAE is palpable, boasting over 240 employees and several facilities dedicated to engineering, testing, and maintenance, reinforcing their commitment to addressing the future of aviation and flight innovations.

In addition, GE Aerospace has revealed plans for a $50 million investment aimed at establishing a new On Wing Support facility in the region, further solidifying their operational footprint and enhancing support services for Emirates and other regional airlines.

As Emirates Airlines embraces this ambitious expansion of its fleet, it continues to inspire travelers worldwide through its focus on increasing customer comfort, offering innovative in-flight experiences, and maintaining exemplary service standards. The company started operations in 1985 with just two aircraft and has since evolved into a leading global airline, showcasing the capabilities of modern aviation.

Through this latest agreement, Emirates and GE Aerospace reaffirm their dedication to innovation and excellence in air travel, together contributing to the advancement of aerospace technology and performance in the global air transport industry. As they embark on this journey of expansion, both companies remain at the forefront of the future of flight, poised to meet the growing demands of air transport with cutting-edge solutions and steadfast partnerships.