Boeing signs $34bn deal with Qatar Airways for passenger, freighter planes

US airplane maker Boeing has agreed a $34bn order from Qatar Airways for passenger jets and the new freighter version of its 777X model.

Qatar Airways chief executive Akbar Al Baker signed a provisional order for 25 737 Max 10 jets, along with options to buy 25 more. It also committed to 34 of the 777X, a large twin-engine plane and options on a further 16.

The airline also ordered two of Boeing’s current 777 freighter model. Boeing expects the passenger 777X to enter into service in late 2023, about three years behind schedule.

Dedicated air freight has become big business during the pandemic as travel bans grounded passenger fleets and put a virtual halt to cargo traffic.

Shipping constraints and higher container fees have seen manufacturers turn to airlines to get parts and goods to customers. Boeing last week said cargo traffic rose 7% last year from pre-pandemic levels, driving record demand for its freighter planes.

Rival Airbus last year said it was launching a freighter version of its A350 widebody plane.

The Max deal with Qatar comes less than two weeks after Airbus said it ended its contract with Qatar Airways for 50 A321neo planes, a rival to the Max jets. Airbus and Qatar Airways have been in a dispute for months over cracked paint and other issues on its A350 planes.