Seattle – In a major announcement on January 28, 2025, Boeing revealed that Lufthansa (LH) will be the inaugural operator of the 777-9 (777X) aircraft, marking a significant milestone for the aviation industry. The decision ends speculation that Emirates Airline (EK) would be the first to fly the highly anticipated widebody jet.
Brian West, Boeing’s Chief Financial Officer, confirmed the announcement, highlighting the importance of Lufthansa’s role as a launch customer. This development reinforces Boeing’s long-term commitment to delivering advanced, fuel-efficient aircraft to leading airlines worldwide.
Why Lufthansa Was Chosen as the First 777X Operator
Lufthansa’s journey to becoming the launch customer involved navigating unique seat certification requirements related to the airline’s customized interior configuration. Boeing is collaborating with the airline to address these technical challenges, ensuring the aircraft meets the required standards without impacting the delivery timeline.
Despite the complexity of integrating new seats, Boeing remains confident in meeting its target to deliver the first 777-9 aircraft to Lufthansa by 2026.
Boeing’s Dual Certification Process
The seat certification process for Lufthansa operates separately from Boeing’s efforts to obtain type certification for the 777-9 from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This distinction highlights the multiple regulatory steps involved in launching the new generation of widebody aircraft.
A Shift in the Launch Operator Timeline
Boeing’s decision to name Lufthansa as the first operator comes after years of shifts in the program’s launch timeline. In 2017, Boeing initially indicated that Emirates would be the launch customer, but that designation was later retracted. Emirates still holds the largest order for the 777X, with 205 aircraft on order, compared to Lufthansa’s 27 units.
Both carriers have shown significant commitment to the program, demonstrating the 777X’s potential to become a key player in the global long-haul market.
Boeing 777X Orders by Airlines
As of January 2025, Boeing has received 481 orders for the 777X from 13 operators and unidentified customers. Here’s a breakdown of key orders:
| Customer Name | Country | Unfilled Orders |
|---|---|---|
| Emirates | United Arab Emirates | 205 |
| Qatar Airways | Qatar | 94 |
| Singapore Airlines | Singapore | 31 |
| Etihad Airways | United Arab Emirates | 25 |
| Lufthansa | Germany | 27 |
| British Airways | United Kingdom | 18 |
| Cathay Pacific Airways | China | 21 |
| Air India | India | 10 |
| Cargolux Airlines | Luxembourg | 10 |
| Ethiopian Airlines Group | Ethiopia | 8 |
| All Nippon Airways (ANA) | Japan | 18 |
| Silk Way West Airlines | Azerbaijan | 2 |
| Unidentified Customers | Unidentified | 12 |
Boeing’s data highlights the Middle East’s dominant role in the 777X program, with Emirates and Qatar Airways accounting for more than half of the total orders.
Lufthansa’s Interior Configuration and Seat Certification
Lufthansa is introducing new seats across its long-haul fleet as part of its premium “Allegris” product line, incorporating products from multiple manufacturers. This customization adds complexity to the seat certification process, which must meet stringent safety and comfort standards.
Boeing’s past experience with similar seat challenges on Lufthansa’s 787 aircraft has provided valuable insights into navigating this process efficiently.
Despite these challenges, Boeing has ensured that the certification timeline for the 777-9 will not be delayed, and the seat integration has been factored into the overall program schedule.
Technical Challenges and FAA Certification
The 777X program has faced several technical hurdles over the years, including a recent issue involving thrust-link fractures. The thrust links, which connect the engines to the aircraft structure, were found to have fractures during test flights, leading to the temporary grounding of four test aircraft from August 2023 to January 2024.
Boeing has since resumed testing and expressed confidence in resolving the issue, although specific details about the solution remain undisclosed. The company acknowledges that meeting FAA certification standards is critical to keeping the program on track for a 2026 delivery.
The Significance of the 777X Program
The Boeing 777X is designed to be a next-generation widebody aircraft, offering:
- Greater fuel efficiency compared to older models, thanks to its advanced General Electric (GE) engines.
- Improved passenger comfort, with larger windows, a wider cabin, and enhanced cabin pressure.
- Increased cargo capacity, making it attractive to airlines looking for versatility on long-haul routes.
Boeing’s Major Customers: Lufthansa vs. Emirates
Lufthansa’s Order Book
- 27 777X aircraft (including 777-9s and 777-8 Freighters)
- Strong emphasis on premium service with its new Allegris cabin configuration
Emirates’ Dominant Position
- 205 777X orders make Emirates the largest customer for the aircraft
- The airline plans to use the 777X alongside its fleet of Airbus A380s to maintain its dominance on long-haul routes
Despite Lufthansa being the launch customer, Emirates’ large order size ensures that it will remain a critical player in the success of the 777X program.
A Major Step for Boeing and Lufthansa
The decision to name Lufthansa as the first operator of the Boeing 777-9 is a significant win for the German airline and reflects Boeing’s confidence in its ability to meet delivery targets despite technical challenges. Lufthansa’s premium configuration and emphasis on passenger experience highlight the airline’s strategy to differentiate itself in the competitive long-haul market.
As Boeing works to secure FAA certification and resolve technical issues, the successful launch of the 777X will mark a new era in widebody aviation, with airlines like Lufthansa and Emirates leading the charge.
The aviation industry is closely watching how this program unfolds, as the 777X’s performance and success could redefine long-haul travel for decades to come.
