Boeing’s new long-range offering, the 777X series, got a sizable boost last week when British Air’s parent company put in 18 orders and 24 options for the larger of two 777X models.
International Airlines Group, which also includes Iberia, Aer Lingus and Vueling, has been upgrading its fleet for more efficiency, replacing mid-size widebodies with 787s. Now, it’s time for the jumbos, and Willie Walsh, IAG chief, told press that “The new 777-9 is the world’s most fuel efficient longhaul aircraft and will bring many benefits to British Airways’ fleet. It’s the ideal replacement for the 747.”
British Airways is already a major operator of existing 777 models, with 60 in its fleet, and is adding several of the 777-300ER extended range planes. The 777X models will start arriving next year.