In a landmark move to bolster its long-haul and cargo operations, China Airlines has announced an order for up to 23 Boeing 777X aircraft, becoming the first carrier in Taiwan to commit to the advanced widebody jet. The agreement includes 10 777-9 passenger aircraft and four 777-8 Freighters, with options for an additional five 777-9s and four freighters.
The order, which was booked in March 2025 and listed anonymously on Boeing’s official records until now, marks a significant fleet renewal step for China Airlines. As a long-standing operator of Boeing’s 777-300ER and 777 Freighter, the airline is set to leverage the 777X’s cutting-edge efficiency and expanded range on long-haul routes spanning North America and Europe.
“The advanced technology and features of the 777-9 will provide our customers with the best-in-class flying experience, while the 777-8 Freighter’s range and fuel-efficiency will enable us to maintain a leadership position in air cargo,” said Kao Shing-Hwang, Chairman of China Airlines. “This is a significant investment toward our future, and we will rely on the new 777X family to help realize our long-term sustainability goals.”
The 777-9, the world’s largest twin-engine jet, offers a 20% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions compared to the aircraft it replaces, while boasting the lowest operating cost per seat in its class. With a range of 7,295 nautical miles (13,510 km), it will allow China Airlines to carry up to 426 passengers in a two-class configuration with enhanced cabin comfort.
“The 777X will enable us to deliver an enhanced travel experience and greater reliability for our customers,” added Chen Han-Ming, President of China Airlines.
On the cargo front, the 777-8 Freighter offers 747-size payload capacity with 30% better fuel efficiency and emissions performance and a 60% smaller noise footprint. This aligns with China Airlines’ strategy to modernise its freighter fleet while maintaining operational commonality with its existing Boeing twin-engine freighters.
Welcoming the airline to the 777X family, Brad McMullen, Boeing’s Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing, highlighted the enduring partnership between the two companies. “We are pleased to build on our nearly 60-year partnership that traces back to the 707 and 727. We value China Airlines’ continued confidence and look forward to delivering the new 777Xs adorned with the beautiful plum blossom livery in the coming years.”
With this latest order, global demand for the 777X family has surpassed 520 units, supporting thousands of jobs across Boeing’s Everett facility and its wider supply chain.
Dan Schull, Boeing Vice President of Commercial Sales, Northeast Asia, noted: “Operating the 777-9 and 777-8 Freighter will allow China Airlines to add capacity and position the airline for further growth going forward. Alongside its 787 Dreamliners on order, China Airlines is reinforcing its world-class fleet for the future.”
SOURCE AND IMAGE: BOEING MEDIA RELATIONS
