Etihad commits to $14.5 billion aircraft deal with Boeing and GE
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Etihad Airways commits $14.5 billion to Boeing and GE for 28 wide-body aircraft under new UAE-US business deals totaling over $200 billion, announced during Trump's visit.
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US President Donald Trump speaks, seated between Kelly Ortberg, President and CEO of Boeing, left, and Larry Culp, CEO of GE Aerospace, during a business roundtable, on May 15, 2025, in Doha, Qatar. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
US President Donald Trump announced on Thursday a series of agreements exceeding $200 billion between the United States and the United Arab Emirates, including a major $14.5 billion commitment involving Boeing, GE Aerospace, and Etihad Airways.
According to the White House, Etihad Airways will purchase 28 wide-body Boeing aircraft powered by GE engines.
The Abu Dhabi-based carrier confirmed the order on Friday, stating that the acquisition aligns with its ongoing strategy to optimize its fleet based on operational and network needs.
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In a statement, Etihad confirmed that the newly ordered aircraft, Boeing 787 and 777X models, are scheduled to be added to its fleet beginning in 2028, deepening Etihad’s long-term partnership with both Boeing and GE Aerospace.
While Boeing and GE did not issue official statements, the White House emphasized the deal's strategic value. "With the inclusion of the next-generation 777X in its fleet plan, the investment deepens the longstanding commercial aviation partnership between the UAE and the United States, fueling American manufacturing, driving exports," the White House noted.
Etihad currently operates a fleet of around 100 aircraft.
Strengthened commercial aviation ties
The Etihad deal is part of broader UAE-US aviation agreements revealed during Trump’s engagement with Gulf leaders, adding that these deals are seen as a step toward strengthening economic ties, particularly in the aerospace and manufacturing sectors.
Last month, Etihad CEO Antonoaldo Neves stated that the airline plans to expand its fleet to over 170 aircraft by 2030. This year alone, Etihad aims to add between 20 and 22 new planes, while the fleet additions are designed to support Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification goals.
Of this year’s additions, 10 will be Airbus A321LRs, set to enter service in August. The rest include six Airbus A350s and four Boeing 787s.
Owned by Abu Dhabi’s $225 billion sovereign wealth fund ADQ, Etihad has undergone significant restructuring and leadership changes in recent years. Under Neves, the airline has resumed its expansion trajectory.
In a related development, Boeing secured its largest wide-body aircraft deal when Qatar Airways placed firm orders for 160 jetliners with options for 50 more, totaling $96 billion, on Wednesdayaccording to the White House.
