GE Aerospace (NYSE: GE) and Qatar Airways have signed a landmark agreement in civil aviation history, involving the purchase of more than 400 engines. This comprehensive deal includes 60 GE9X and 260 GEnx engines, marking the largest widebody engine order in GE Aerospace’s history.
The agreement encompasses not only engine supply but also maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. With this collaboration, the total number of GE9X engines ordered by Qatar Airways increases to 248, adding to the 188 previously ordered. The addition of more GEnx engines to the airline’s existing fleet of 124 significantly enhances both operational power and sustainability capacity.
A Deal Aligned with GE Aerospace’s Financial Ascent
This strategic partnership was announced during U.S. President Donald J. Trump’s visit to Doha and coincides with GE’s strong market performance, with shares trading near a 52-week high and a market capitalisation of $237.8 billion. According to InvestingPro, while the company may appear “overvalued” relative to its intrinsic worth, it has delivered a robust performance with a 33.1% year-to-date gain and an 8.82% increase in revenue.
A New Symbol of Efficiency, Sustainability, and Trust
Qatar Airways Group CEO, Engineer Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, highlighted the critical role GE engines play in modern, efficient, and sustainable fleet management. GE Aerospace Chairman and CEO, H. Lawrence Culp, Jr., emphasised the importance of Qatar Airways’ confidence in GE’s technology.
The GE9X engine, developed exclusively for Boeing 777X aircraft, is 10% more efficient than its predecessor, the GE90-115B.
The GEnx engine has surpassed 62 million flight hours, becoming GE’s fastest-selling high-thrust engine.
Both engine types are certified to operate with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
A Strong Contribution to Qatar’s Aviation Vision
GE Aerospace goes beyond just supplying products, actively supporting the development of Qatar’s aviation infrastructure through its On Wing Support programmes and local workforce training.
Positive Outlook from Market Analysts
The company’s Q1 2025 results support this growth trajectory:
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Adjusted earnings per share: $1.49 (above expectations)
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Adjusted revenue: $9.0 billion (11% increase)
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Operating profit: $2.15 billion (12% above expectations)
Investor interest continues to rise:
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BofA Securities: Price target: $230
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Bernstein: Price target: $254
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TD Cowen: Price target: $200 (Outperform rating)
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RBC Capital Markets: Price target: $220 (Outperform rating)
© AeroHaber.com / Mevlüt Zor – mevlutzorr@gmail.com
