Boeing set to sign 777X freighter order with Qatar Airways

Boeing is expected to sign a much-awaited order from Qatar Airways for a new freighter version of its 777X passenger jet on Monday.

The signing will coincide with a visit to Washington by Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar. Industry sources have suggested the order could be for up to 50 freighters, with a list value of $14bn.

It would be the first order for a freighter version of the 777X. The passenger airliner has been delayed to late 2023 or beyond.

The deal comes as Qatar Airways and Boeing's European rival Airbus continue a legal battle over peeling paint on recently delivered A350 jets. Airbus cancelled a $6bn contract with Qatar Airways for 50 of its new A321neo passenger jets.

In December, Airbus was taken to court by Qatar Airways in London, following a series of alleged problems with the Airbus A350 aircraft.

The airline complained the paint on the recently delivered Airbus A350s was cracking and peeling, exposing copper meshing used to insulate the aircraft against lightning strike.

It is seeking more than $600m in compensation after grounding the affected aircraft – 21 of its 53 A350 jets – claiming the paint issue is a safety risk.