Cathay Pacific has agreed to buy 21 "next generation" Boeing 777-9X aircraft in a deal worth around $7.9 billion at list prices.
The Hong Kong-based carrier will take delivery of the new aircraft from 2021 to 2024. Cathay Pacific retired the Boeing 747 from its London route earlier this month.
The 777-9X is an upgrade on Boeing’s existing 777, and will have capacity for up to 400 passengers.
“The Boeing aircraft will replenish and expand the fleet capacity,” said Cathay in a statement. “They will principally serve long-haul destinations in North America and Europe.”
Chief executive John Slosar added: “Cathay Pacific is committed to modernising its fleet to provide a superior experience to passengers while at the same time as delivering cost benefits to the airline and reducing our impact on the environment.
"The 777-300ER has done a superb job for us – indeed, Cathay Pacific is now the second largest operator of this type – and we are delighted to be an early customer for this next generation of the aircraft.
“The 777-9X promises us improved payload range capability and reduced operating costs, in addition to a significant reduction in environmental emissions. We think it will be an ideal fit for long-haul destinations in North America and Europe, in particular those routes where we carry high volumes of passengers and cargo each day.”
cathaypacific.com