On May 15, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump revealed a massive series of deals worth over $200 billion between the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Among these, a noteworthy $14.5 billion agreement includes collaborations with aviation giants Boeing and GE Aerospace, in partnership with Etihad Airways, substantially highlighting the day's announcements.
Etihad Airways has confirmed plans to purchase 28 wide-body Boeing airplanes, which will feature engines supplied by GE. According to Reuters, this significant upgrade is designed to modernize and expand Etihad's existing fleet, which currently consists of about 100 aircraft. Delivery of these new planes is expected to begin in 2028. This move is part of broader efforts to strengthen U.S.-UAE commercial relations, particularly in the aviation sector, while boosting American manufacturing and exports.
In line with its growth ambitions, Etihad's CEO, Antonoaldo Neves, shared that the airline is aiming to expand its fleet to over 170 aircraft by 2030. This initiative aligns with broader economic goals set by Abu Dhabi to diversify its economy. The announcement also follows Boeing's recent success in securing its largest wide-body aircraft order to date from Qatar Airways, marking another significant development in the aviation industry.