On 6th August 2025, Boeing secured a deal with Cathay Pacific that will see the Hong Kong carrier commit to buying 14 aircraft from the US planemaker's 777X family. This pushes its total commitment to 35 aircraft of that type. The list price for this batch is roughly US$8.1 billion, although the airline secured customary discounts. First deliveries are expected in early 2027, with the full delivery timeline extending to about 2034.
The agreement is the latest step in Cathay Pacific’s long and illustrious working relationship with the Boeing 777 family. The carrier has been flying the popular “triple-seven” series for the past three decades on high-demand and long-haul routes. Now, the Hong Kong flag carrier stands to modernize its fleet and long-haul operations with the 777X, which will allow it to fly to all corners of the world.
Cathay Doubles Down on Long-Haul Strategy
The 777-9 promises 20% lower fuel use and 40% less noise than the aircraft it replaces, compared to the current long-haul aircraft models. Ronald Lam, CEO of the airline group, commented, “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." The range of the aircraft sits at approximately 13,510 km, enabling direct long-haul links from Cathay’s Hong Kong hub.
Along with the order for 14 new jets, Cathay Pacific has also committed to the GE9X high-bypass turbofan engines to power the new jets, adding roughly $980 million to the total cost of the new order. The order will include maintenance, repair, and overhaul of the GE9X engines.
Patrick Healy, Cathay Group Chair, said the broader fleet plan spans over 100 new aircraft across narrowbody, regional widebody, long-haul, and freighter categories, representing investment over HK$100 billion (USD 12.75 billion).
The new acquisition comes in the backdrop of declining airfares, budget challenges, and uncertain cargo market conditions, all of which have sent the carrier’s shares down to more than 10% after it posted a slight rise in first-half profit. Earlier this month, Cathay had reported a 1% increase in its first-half profit to HK$3.65 billion (USD 465 million).
What This Means For the Industry
The order adds momentum to Boeing’s 777X programme, which has endured multiple delays, with challenges in the path to certification and delivery. Cathay’s vote of confidence could not have come at a better time. Boeing expects 777-9 certification and initial deliveries to begin in 2026–2027.
Globally, other airlines have placed significant 777X orders, such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, and ANA, among others. Among all these, Cathay holds the largest 777-9 fleet order in Asia-Pacific. It also shows how the industry is gradually moving towards newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft that meet post-pandemic operations and emissions targets.
For the MRO sector, a rise in 777X fleets, including those with GE9X installations, signals demand for advanced maintenance and innovative supply-chain strategies. With more carriers aiming to revamp and renew their fleets, there will be an increased demand for engineers and technicians to manage the aircraft and keep them in top-notch condition.
Enjoying the article?
Follow us and never miss an update on the aviation industry.
Join Cathay Pacific’s Talent Community
Cathay Pacific is inviting applicants to join its Talent Community. As part of the community, you get first dibs at any new and exciting updates from Cathay, whether it be job openings, career insights, or invites to recruitment events. It’s a smart way into the company ahead of the carrier’s new fleet and operations growth, especially as the 777-9 programme ramps up. For more information, visit Cathay Pacific’s talent community page.
