Boeing 777-9X

Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific has placed a HK$58bn ($7.48bn) order for 21 Boeing 777-9x aircraft, as a part of its fleet modernisation programme.

Deliveries under the new contract are scheduled between 2021 and 2024.

Cathay Pacific Airways chief executive John Slosar said that the 777-9X will provide the airline with improved payload range capabilities, with reduced operating costs and carbon emissions.

"We think it will be an ideal fit for long-haul destinations in North America and Europe, in particular those routes where we carry high volumes of passengers and cargo each day," Slosar said.

Boeing has launched the 777X programme at the recent Dubai Airshow, and secured over 259 orders and commitments worth nearly $95bn.

The first 777X is scheduled to be delivered in 2020.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes president and CEO Ray Conner said: "We are honoured to continue our tradition of launching new airplane models with Cathay Pacific in Asia, starting with the Rolls-Royce-powered 747-400 and the original 777-200s, 777-300s, 777-300ERs and naturally, now with the 777X family."

According to Boeing, the 777X aircraft line featuring wing and propulsion technology will be the largest and most-efficient twin-engine jet worldwide, with up to 20% lower fuel consumption than the 777 aircraft.

The 777-9X is powered by the new GE9X engine, and features folding, raked wingtip and optimised span that will deliver greater efficiency and higher fuel savings.

Image: The deliveries of Boeing 777-9X for Cathay Pacific will begin in 2021. Photo: courtesy of Cathay Pacific Airways Limited.

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