China Airlines (CAL), a Taiwan-based carrier, formally placed an order today (5/8) with Boeing for ten 777-9 widebody aircraft and four 777-8F freighters, with an option to acquire nine more. Delivery of the new fleet is expected to commence in 2030. China Airlines will be the first Taiwanese airline to introduce the flagship 777X model. The 777-9 passenger aircraft will be assigned to fly long-haul routes to North America and Europe while the 777-8F freighter will complement the 777F already in service, creating fleet synergies. The combination of passenger and cargo aircraft will enhance the competitiveness of the airline’s global network and offer exceptional aviation services.
The contract was signed by China Airlines Chairman Kao Shing-hwang and Brad McMullen, the Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Boeing, during a ceremony held at the Hyatt Regency Taoyuan International Airport. China Airlines President Chen Han-ming along with Administrative Deputy Minister LIN Kuo-Shian from the Ministry of Transportation and Communications were present to witness the contract signing. Chairman Kao stated that the 777-9 passenger aircraft and the 777-8F freighter represent the latest generation of Boeing aircraft. The 777-9 passenger aircraft will be the mainstay on high-volume North American and European destinations, such as Los Angeles and Frankfurt. The aircraft will retain the existing three-class configuration of Premium Business, Premium Economy, and Economy. The proportion of Premium Business Class seats will also be increased to meet the demand from the premium travel segment and provide travelers with a more comfortable experience. The 777-8F freighter has a high level of commonality with the ten 777F freighters already in service with China Airlines and will make a key contribution to China Airlines’ bottom-line in the future.
China Airlines continues to implement its fleet renewal program and optimize its aircraft mix. The 777-9 passenger aircraft offers a higher arched ceiling, improved cabin air exchange system, and dynamic LED mood lighting. A more spacious cabin and a brand new design will offer travelers a new level of comfort on long-distance flights. The cargo hold on the 777-8F freighter has the same specifications as the 777F freighter to give greater flexibility for management and dispatching. The productivity of cargo handlers is also improved and the risk of colliding cargo reduced. The order will support the expansion of the cargo network, improve range and payload, and boost growth in the cargo business.
Brad McMullen, Senior VP of Commercial Sales and Marketing at Boeing, said the company was proud of its almost 60-year partnership with China Airlines. China Airlines will also become the first carrier in Taiwan to join the 777X club. The advanced technology and design incorporated into the 777-9 passenger aircraft will provide China Airlines’ travelers with the best flying experience. The 777-8F freighter’s range and high fuel-efficiency will also help China Airlines maintain its lead in the cargo market.
The 777-9 passenger aircraft and 777-8F freighters have fuselages built out of composite materials and are powered by the General Electric GE9X engine. Its outstanding fuel efficiency and environmental performance is expected to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions by 25%, and will play a crucial part in China Airlines’ bid to achieve net zero by 2050. The continued introduction of next-generation fleet represents China Airlines’ commitment to the steady growth of its global network, its fleet modernization strategy, as well as its determination to lead the Asia-Pacific and fly worldwide. (2025/05/08)
