Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Boeing 777-9 Achieves Key Five-Aircraft Testing Milestone
Boeing’s 777-9 completes simultaneous testing of five aircraft, advancing toward 2026 certification amid technical challenges and strong market demand.
The Boeing 777-9, the flagship of Boeing’s 777X program, recently marked a pivotal achievement in its development journey: all five test aircraft operated simultaneously across different locations, conducting a range of certification activities. This milestone underscores the program’s progress toward final certification and eventual commercial entry into service, which has been delayed multiple times since its initial 2020 target. The simultaneous testing not only highlights the technical and logistical complexity of certifying the world’s largest twin-engine jetliner but also reflects Boeing’s commitment to rigorous safety and reliability standards in the wake of heightened regulatory scrutiny.
The 777X program, especially the 777-9 variant, is central to Boeing’s strategy to maintain leadership in the large widebody aircraft market. With over 1,500 flights and 4,100 test hours completed, this campaign is a crucial step toward first deliveries, now anticipated in 2026. The outcome will have significant implications for Boeing’s financial recovery and its competitive standing against Airbus and other industry players.
The Boeing 777X program was launched in 2013 as a response to evolving airline demands for greater efficiency, capacity, and range in the long-haul market. Building on the success of the original 777, Boeing aimed to bridge the gap between the 777 and the 787 Dreamliner, while directly challenging Airbus’s A350 series. The 777X family was conceived with advanced materials, new engine technology, and aerodynamic improvements, including composite wings and folding wingtips, an industry first for Commercial-Aircraft.
Boeing’s vision was to provide a modern replacement for aging 747s and first-generation 777s. The program quickly attracted major interest from international carriers, notably those operating large-scale hub-and-spoke networks. However, the ambitious technical scope and the integration of new technologies presented unforeseen challenges, resulting in repeated delays and additional development costs.
Developing the 777X required a massive financial commitment, with billions invested in research, manufacturing infrastructure, and supplier partnerships. Like previous Boeing programs, the 777X development represented a “bet the company” endeavor, carrying both high risks and the potential for significant rewards if successful.
The Boeing 777-9 stands as the world’s largest twin-engine passenger aircraft, measuring 251 feet 9 inches in length with a wingspan of 235 feet 5 inches when extended. The aircraft typically seats over 400 passengers in a two-class configuration and is designed for routes up to 7,285 nautical miles. Its composite wings, featuring folding wingtips, allow for both aerodynamic efficiency in flight and compatibility with existing airport gates on the ground.
The GE9X engines, developed by General Electric, are the most powerful ever built for a commercial jet, each producing 110,000 pounds of thrust. Advanced materials such as ceramic matrix composites and the engine’s 134-inch fan diameter contribute to the aircraft’s promised fuel efficiency and lower emissions. However, these same innovations introduced new technical hurdles, including engine durability and integration challenges that required extensive testing and redesigns.
The 777-9’s avionics and cockpit systems are derived from the 787 Dreamliner, ensuring operational commonality and advanced safety features. The aircraft’s lower deck cargo capacity, robust structural design, and sophisticated flight control systems position it as a versatile platform for both passenger and freighter operations. “When you scale that up five-fold, it’s amazing to see our teams orchestrate successful testing across the entire fleet, especially in different locations.” — Brandon Schmitz, 777X test program manager
The 777X has garnered over 500 Orders from 14 airlines, reflecting strong demand from carriers seeking next-generation efficiency and capacity. Emirates is the largest customer, followed by Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines. The order book is geographically diverse, with significant commitments from Middle Eastern, European, and Asian airlines.
Freighter variants, notably the 777-8F, have also attracted substantial interest, with over 50 firm orders. This reflects the growing importance of air cargo and Boeing’s leadership in the global freighter market. Recent orders from China Airlines and others signal ongoing confidence in the program despite delays.
List prices for the 777X range from approximately $410 million to $442 million, though actual transaction prices are typically lower due to standard industry discounts. The program’s financial success hinges on timely certification and production ramp-up to fulfill these high-value orders.
The path to 777X certification has been fraught with technical and regulatory hurdles. Initial expectations for a 2020 entry into service were upended by issues such as engine durability, thrust link failures, and the need for design changes. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has imposed more stringent oversight following industry-wide safety concerns, resulting in a more comprehensive and time-consuming certification process.
In August 2024, a critical setback occurred when thrust link failures were discovered, forcing a suspension of flight testing and a major design review. Boeing worked closely with the FAA to implement reinforced components and resumed testing in early 2025. The GE9X engines also required additional validation after issues were detected during borescope inspections.
Despite these challenges, the 777-9 test fleet has completed over 1,500 flights, with testing encompassing everything from takeoff and landing performance to electromagnetic interference and hot-weather operations. The FAA’s Type Inspection Authorization, granted in June 2024, marked a transition to final regulatory evaluations, with FAA pilots conducting independent flight tests.
“Across our program, our team is coming together to complete our work so we can deliver the 777-9 to our customers.” — Terry Beezhold, 777-9 vice president and general manager
The simultaneous deployment of all five 777-9 test aircraft across different locations was an unprecedented feat. Each aircraft focused on a specific set of certification tests: WH001 conducted takeoff performance trials at Edwards Air Force Base, WH002 validated icing conditions at Moses Lake, WH003 performed engine start tests at Boeing Field, WH004 underwent hot-day testing in Yuma, and WH286 tackled electromagnetic interference assessments in Marana.
This coordinated campaign required intricate logistical planning and cross-team collaboration. The complexity of managing concurrent tests on multiple aircraft in different environments demonstrates the scale of modern aircraft certification and the maturity of the 777X program as it nears completion. Boeing’s ability to orchestrate this milestone reflects not only technical readiness but also a renewed focus on safety, quality, and regulatory compliance. The outcome of these tests will directly inform the final FAA certification decision and the program’s readiness for commercial service.
The 777X enters a market defined by intense competition, primarily with the Airbus A350-1000. Airlines are increasingly focused on fuel efficiency, environmental performance, and operational flexibility. The 777-9’s larger cabin, advanced aerodynamics, and efficiency claims are key selling points, but the delayed entry into service has allowed Airbus to strengthen its position with the A350 family.
Middle Eastern carriers, with their hub-and-spoke models, are particularly invested in the 777X’s success. The aircraft’s range and payload capabilities are well-suited for connecting global destinations. Meanwhile, the freighter variant targets the expanding air cargo sector, where Boeing already holds a dominant market share.
Boeing’s challenge is to deliver on its promised advantages, 10% lower fuel consumption and emissions, and 10% lower operating costs compared to competitors, while ensuring reliability and support. The program’s outcome will influence not just Boeing’s finances but also the broader dynamics of the widebody aircraft market.
Boeing’s Everett facility serves as the production hub for the 777X, incorporating advanced automation and precision manufacturing for the composite wings and fuselage. The start of 777-8F freighter production marks an important step in diversifying the program’s output and meeting global demand for cargo aircraft.
Manufacturing readiness is critical, given the backlog of orders and the need to ramp up deliveries once certification is achieved. Boeing has invested in workforce training, quality control, and supply chain management to mitigate risks of production delays or quality issues seen in previous programs.
As the program transitions from testing to production, maintaining high standards and efficient throughput will be essential for meeting customer expectations and restoring Boeing’s reputation for reliability and innovation.
The Boeing 777-9’s five-aircraft simultaneous testing campaign marks a significant step toward certification and commercial service. Despite technical setbacks and regulatory delays, the program has demonstrated resilience and progress, with comprehensive testing validating the aircraft’s performance, safety, and reliability. The 777X’s success is crucial for Boeing’s financial health and its competitive position in the global aerospace industry. As the program moves toward final certification and production ramp-up, the focus will remain on delivering promised efficiencies and meeting the evolving needs of airlines and cargo operators worldwide.
Q: What makes the Boeing 777-9 unique compared to other widebody aircraft? Q: Why has the 777X program experienced delays? Q: When are the first deliveries of the 777-9 expected? Q: Which airlines have ordered the 777X? Q: What is the significance of the five-aircraft testing milestone? Sources: Boeing News Now
Boeing 777-9 Test Fleet Reaches Critical Certification Milestone with Unprecedented Five-Aircraft Testing Campaign
Program Origins and Historical Development
Technical Specifications and Engineering Innovation
Market Reception and Global Order Portfolio
Certification Journey and Technical Challenges
The Five-Aircraft Testing Milestone
Competitive Landscape and Industry Context
Manufacturing and Production Readiness
Conclusion
FAQ
A: The 777-9 is the world’s largest twin-engine passenger jet, featuring composite wings with folding wingtips, advanced GE9X engines, and a spacious cabin. These innovations contribute to improved fuel efficiency, range, and operational flexibility.
A: Delays have resulted from technical challenges with engine integration, structural components (such as thrust link failures), and increased regulatory scrutiny following industry-wide safety concerns. These factors extended the certification timeline beyond initial projections.
A: First deliveries are currently projected for 2026, following the completion of certification testing and regulatory approval.
A: Major customers include Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, British Airways, and several others across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.
A: Simultaneous testing of all five aircraft demonstrates program maturity, logistical coordination, and readiness for final certification, marking a key step toward commercial service.
Photo Credit: Boeing
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
BOC Aviation Renews $3.5B Credit Facility with Bank of China to 2031
BOC Aviation extends its $3.5 billion revolving credit facility with Bank of China to 2031, securing liquidity for aircraft investments and growth.
This article is based on an official press release from BOC Aviation.
BOC Aviation Limited has officially announced the renewal of its US$3.5 billion unsecured revolving credit facility (RCF) with its majority shareholder, the Bank of China. Confirmed on February 16, 2026, the transaction extends the maturity of the facility to February 13, 2031, providing the Singapore-based lessor with a five-year horizon of secured liquidity.
The renewal maintains the facility’s total value at the same level established during its 2020 expansion. According to the company, this move is designed to bolster financial flexibility and ensure consistent access to capital for aircraft investments, regardless of broader market cycles. The agreement underscores the continued financial backing BOC Aviation receives from its parent company, a critical differentiator in the competitive aircraft leasing sector.
The renewed agreement is an unsecured revolving credit facility, a structure that allows BOC Aviation to draw down, repay, and re-borrow funds as needed up to the US$3.5 billion limit. By extending the maturity date to 2031, the lessor secures a long-term funding runway to support its growth strategy.
Steven Townend, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of BOC Aviation, emphasized the strategic importance of this renewal in a statement released by the company. He highlighted the alignment between the lessor and its parent organization.
“This RCF extension reflects the confidence that Bank of China has in the future of our business and underscores the depth of our relationship with our major shareholder. The facility strengthens our financial flexibility and ensures our access to ample liquidity to support our aircraft investments across the cycle.”
, Steven Townend, CEO of BOC Aviation
The credit facility has grown significantly alongside BOC Aviation’s fleet over the last two decades. The company provided a timeline of the facility’s evolution, illustrating the increasing scale of support from the Bank of China:
This liquidity event occurs against a backdrop of significant operational activity for the lessor. As of December 31, 2025, BOC Aviation reported a total portfolio of 815 aircraft and engines, including owned, managed, and ordered assets. The company’s reach extends to 87 airlines across 46 countries and regions.
Data released regarding the full year 2025 indicates robust activity, with the company taking delivery of 51 new aircraft and executing a record 333 transactions. These transactions included 160 aircraft purchase commitments, signaling an aggressive growth posture that necessitates substantial available capital. In addition to the RCF renewal, BOC Aviation has recently moved to diversify its funding sources. In early February 2026, the company successfully priced US$500 million in senior unsecured notes. The combination of these notes and the renewed RCF provides a multi-layered capital structure to fund future acquisitions.
The renewal of this facility highlights a structural advantage for BOC Aviation compared to independent lessors. In a high-interest-rate environment or during periods of market volatility, the cost of funds is a primary determinant of a lessor’s profitability. The direct backing of a major state-owned bank allows BOC Aviation to secure large-scale liquidity that might be more expensive or difficult to arrange for competitors without similar parentage.
Furthermore, with supply chain constraints continuing to affect Airbus and Boeing deliveries in 2026, lessors with ready cash are better positioned to execute sale-and-leaseback (SLB) transactions with airlines desperate for liquidity. By locking in US$3.5 billion in revolving credit through 2031, BOC Aviation is effectively positioning itself to act as a liquidity provider to the airline industry, potentially acquiring assets at attractive valuations while manufacturers struggle to meet delivery targets.
BOC Aviation Secures US$3.5 Billion Facility Renewal with Bank of China
Transaction Details and Management Commentary
Historical Evolution of the Facility
Operational Context and Financial Position
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: BOC Aviation
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Air Astana Orders 15 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners to Expand US Routes
Air Astana finalizes $7B order for 15 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners to modernize its fleet and enable direct flights to North America starting 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from Boeing and Air Astana.
On February 17, 2026, Air Astana JSC, the flag carrier of Kazakhstan, officially finalized a major agreement with Boeing for up to 15 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. The deal, announced in Seattle, marks the largest single aircraft purchase in the airline’s history and signals a pivotal shift in its long-haul strategy. Valued at approximately $7 billion at list prices, the agreement is designed to modernize the carrier’s widebody fleet and facilitate direct operations to North America.
The acquisition comes at a critical transition point for the Airlines, coinciding with a leadership change and following its recent IPO. According to the official announcement, the new fleet will replace aging Boeing 767s and provide the range necessary to navigate complex geopolitical airspace restrictions while connecting Central Asia to the United States.
The agreement creates a long-term pipeline for fleet renewal. According to details released regarding the Contracts, the order for 15 aircraft is structured in three tiers:
While the newly purchased jets are scheduled for delivery between 2032 and 2035, Air Astana will begin operating the Dreamliner much sooner. Through a separate agreement with Air Lease Corporation (ALC), three leased Boeing 787-9s are expected to join the fleet in the first quarter of 2026. These leased units will allow the carrier to begin pilot training and route expansion immediately, bridging the gap until the direct orders arrive.
The selection of the 787-9 variant represents a significant upgrade in capacity and efficiency over Air Astana’s current widebody workhorse, the Boeing 767-300ER. Data provided in the announcement indicates the new Dreamliners will feature a two-class configuration with 303 seats, a substantial increase from the 223 seats offered on the 767s.
In a notable strategic pivot, Air Astana has selected General Electric GEnx-1B engines to power the new fleet, moving away from a 2012 intention to utilize Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines. The airline cites the 787-9’s superior fuel efficiency and range, approximately 7,530 nautical miles, as critical factors in the decision.
“Boeing airplanes have been integral to Air Astana’s operations from the beginning. We are proud that the 787 Dreamliner will support Central Asia’s growing importance in global aviation.”
, Paul Righi, VP of Commercial Sales (Eurasia), Boeing
A primary driver behind this investment is the airline’s ambition to launch non-stop service from Kazakhstan to New York (JFK). This route has long been a strategic goal but faces significant logistical hurdles due to the closure of Russian airspace following geopolitical sanctions. The current geopolitical climate necessitates a southern route over the Caspian Sea, Turkey, and Europe, adding considerable distance to the flight path. The extended range of the Boeing 787-9 is essential to making this detour commercially and operationally viable, allowing Air Astana to bypass Russian airspace without sacrificing payload or requiring technical stops.
The timing of this order suggests Air Astana is aggressively positioning itself as the dominant connector in the Central Asian market, outpacing regional competitors like Uzbekistan Airways. By securing the 787-9, the airline is not only solving the immediate problem of airspace restrictions but is also future-proofing its fleet against fuel price volatility. The shift to GE engines likely reflects a desire for reliability on these ultra-long-haul routes, where engine performance over remote regions is paramount.
The finalization of this order serves as a capstone achievement for outgoing CEO Peter Foster, who is set to retire in March 2026. Foster has led the airline through its recent IPO and this historic fleet renewal. He will be succeeded by current CFO Ibrahim Canliel, who will oversee the financial integration of these assets.
“The 787-9’s advanced technology and efficiency will allow us to connect Kazakhstan to new markets, including North America, with a superior passenger experience.”
, Peter Foster, Outgoing CEO, Air Astana
Sources: Boeing Mediaroom
Air Astana Finalizes Historic Orders for 15 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners to Target US Routes
Deal Structure and Delivery Timeline
Technical Specifications and Fleet Modernization
Strategic Expansion: The “Holy Grail” of New York
AirPro News Analysis
Leadership Transition
Sources
Photo Credit: Boeing
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
BlueFive Capital Launches Aircraft Leasing Platform in Oman Targeting $1B Fund
BlueFive Capital launches BlueFive Leasing in Muscat, Oman, aiming to raise over $1 billion to acquire commercial aircraft assets across Middle East, Asia, and Africa.
This article is based on an official press release from BlueFive Capital.
BlueFive Capital, a global alternative investment firm, has officially announced the launch of BlueFive Leasing, a new dedicated aircraft leasing and asset management platform headquartered in Muscat, Oman. The initiative marks a significant expansion for the firm, which is led by former Investcorp Co-CEO Hazem Ben-Gacem.
According to the company’s announcement, the new venture is established through a strategic partnership with a major Omani sovereign institution. To fuel its operations, BlueFive Leasing has commenced fundraising for BlueFive Wings Fund I, an investment vehicle targeting more than $1.0 billion in capital commitments to acquire commercial aircraft assets.
BlueFive Leasing aims to capitalize on the robust demand for air travel across the Middle-East, Asia, and Africa. By establishing its headquarters in Muscat, the platform aligns with broader regional goals to develop local financial markets and diversify economic activities.
The platform’s mandate is broad, covering the full age spectrum of commercial-aircraft. According to the press release, the company plans to build a portfolio containing a mix of:
This flexible approach allows BlueFive Leasing to offer competitive solutions to established airlines globally, particularly those modernizing fleets or expanding routes in high-growth emerging markets.
“The launch of BlueFive Leasing reflects our strategic ambition to diversify regional investment portfolios and provide a new source of aviation capital from the GCC.”
, Hazem Ben-Gacem, Founder & CEO of BlueFive Capital
The launch of the leasing platform follows a period of rapid growth for BlueFive Capital. Founded in late 2024, the firm has quickly scaled its operations. Following the recent close of its $3 billion Onyx Fund I, which focuses on technology investments in the U.S. and Europe, BlueFive Capital now reports approximately $7.4 billion in assets under management (AUM).
Hazem Ben-Gacem, who brings three years of leadership experience from Investcorp, serves as the driving force behind the firm. While specific executive appointments for the leasing arm’s day-to-day management have not yet been detailed, the company states it has assembled an expert management team with deep experience in aviation finance. The establishment of BlueFive Leasing represents more than just a new investment vehicle; it signals the continued maturation of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) as a global hub for aviation finance. Historically, the region was known primarily for its world-class carriers like Emirates and Qatar Airways. Today, however, Gulf nations are moving “upstream” to own the assets themselves.
BlueFive Leasing joins a growing list of regional heavyweights, including Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) and Saudi Arabia’s AviLease. By partnering with an Omani sovereign institution, widely believed by industry analysts to be the Oman Investment Authority (OIA) or its Future Fund Oman, BlueFive is effectively leveraging sovereign wealth to capture value from the very assets that service the region’s booming travel hubs.
Furthermore, the decision to trade across the “full age spectrum” rather than focusing exclusively on new-technology aircraft suggests an opportunistic strategy. This approach may allow the firm to generate higher yields by trading mid-life assets, a segment where demand remains high due to production delays at major manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus.
BlueFive Capital Launches Aircraft Leasing Platform in Oman, Targets $1 Billion Fund
Strategic Expansion into Aviation Finance
Leadership and Capital Growth
AirPro News Analysis
Summary of Key Facts
Sources
Photo Credit: BlueFive
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