While there is still quite a lot to be done before we see Boeing’s latest aircraft take to the skies, following the investor call we have some more information to run off regarding which airline it will be doing it with. Let’s talk about the Boeing 777X and other developments coming out of Seattle.
Lufthansa Will Become The Boeing 777X Launch Customer
The most interesting piece of, customer and airline, information that came out of the investor call Boeing held to present its Q4 results relates to the launch customer of the Boeing 777X. This is the much anticipated evolution of the legacy Boeing 777-200 and most of all the 777-300ER.
After continuous setbacks we’re getting closer to the launch date of the new Boeing aircraft. The Boeing 777X should enter service some time in 2026. It is worth noting that it is still missing the vital type certification which will finally allow it to enter commercial service and carry passengers. Despite the still pending certification Boeing remains confident that it will be able to meet the delivery deadline without any further pushback.
Finally, it also slipped out which airline will receive the first of the new generation of Boeing 777. Contrary to what most might have thought, it won’t be Emirates to receive the first Boeing 777X. The choice is a much more symbolic one, an airline who’s long haul fleet segment if mainly comprised of Airbus aircraft and is among the most influential in Europe and the world: Lufthansa.
Why this is a very important decision is easily explained. The airline operates a great number of Airbus planes for its long-haul operations and has recently been increasing its orders with Boeing. Along with operating the Lufthansa main brand the Lufthansa Group also englobes other strategically important airlines such as:
- SWISS
- Austrian Airlines
- Brussels Airlines
- ITA Airways
Boeing is therefore making a statement with the delivery of the first 777X to the German carrier. Just recently the Lufthansa Group also placed a very juicy order for Boeing 737 MAX planes. Up to 100 aircraft of the type will be heading over to Lufthansa, making a return in the fleet after years of absence and challenging Airbus’ dominant position in the short/medium range division.
Which Other Boeing Aircraft Does Lufthansa Operate?
Interestingly Lufthansa has never operated a single Boeing 777. Other airlines within the Lufthansa Group have and still do, such as SWISS and Austrian Airlines. The German flag carrier on the other hand has relied heavily on the Airbus A350-900 and much less on Boeing 787s.
Now, the Boeing 777X will mark a whole new era for the Lufthansa fleet. The aircraft will operate along side other two Boeing produced aircraft such as:
- Boeing 747 in 400 and 8i variants
- Boeing 787 in the 9 variant
Boeing 777X Back in Test Flight Phase With Issues Being Solved
It will be a very busy year for the Boeing development team. Test pilots and engineers will have work cut out for themselves as they have to solve the thrust link issues discovered in 2024 and will have to complete the certification process to allow the aircraft to finally be delivered to clients and start generating revenue for Boeing after massive development costs it had to take on upfront.
Another issue Boeing is looking to overcome is also the certification of the seats, particularly for the premium cabins of the 777X.
Other Boeing News From the Investor Call
Let’s then touch on the other news which was discussed on the Boeing Q4 results call. The manufacturer reiterated it’s still in the process of also getting the Boeing 737 MAX 7 and 10 certified. There should be some news coming in this regard at some stage in 2025.
Remaining on the 737 MAX train of thought, Boeing has started off the year well with deliveries in the high 30s. The target is to get back and stabilize as soon as possibile production numbers at 38 per month. The target for 2025 concerning the Boeing 787 is to reach 7 units produced per month by the latter stages of the year.
Last of all Boeing might be looking at streamlining its portfolio of divisions in the coming months and year. No official comment was made regarding which divisions might be let go.
The path for Boeing towards recovering its global dominant position has started.