Qatar Airways signed a massive deal with Boeing on Wednesday. The airline agreed to buy 160 jets. In total, the deal is worth about $200 billion. The signing happened in Doha. Importantly, President Donald Trump and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani attended the event.
Deal Strengthens U.S.-Qatar Relations
This agreement significantly boosts ties between the U.S. and Qatar. It took place during Trump’s Gulf tour. Notably, just a day earlier, Trump signed key investment and defense agreements in Saudi Arabia.
Furthermore, the U.S. aims to grow economic partnerships in the region, especially in aviation and defense sectors.
Trump Praises Boeing’s Record Jet Order
Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg and Qatar Airways CEO Badr Mohammed Al-Meer signed the contract. Meanwhile, Trump stood beside them with the Qatari Emir.
Trump said, “It’s the largest order of jets in the history of Boeing, that’s good.”
He also added, “It’s over $200 billion but 160 in terms of the jets, that’s fantastic. So that’s a record, Kelly, and congratulations to Boeing. Get those planes out there, get them out there.”
Details of Aircraft Models Remain Unclear
However, no official information has been shared about which Boeing models are included. Additionally, it is unclear whether Qatar’s orders are firm or options. Firm orders require deposits and contractual commitments.
Boeing no longer publishes official price lists. Still, its most expensive jet, the 777X, costs about $442 million each. Therefore, buying 160 jets of that model would amount to roughly $70 billion. Moreover, analysts note that airlines usually receive large discounts on bulk orders.
At this time, Boeing has not commented. Similarly, Qatar Airways has not responded to requests for clarification.
Leaders Discuss Iran and Ukraine
Besides the deal, Trump and the Emir also discussed Iran, Russia, and Ukraine. Trump stated, “Qatar has been a great help” regarding Iran. He concluded, “I believe the Iran situation will work out.”
