WEB DESK: U.S. President Donald Trump has announced over $200 billion in agreements between the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), aimed at strengthening economic and commercial ties during his multiday Middle East tour.
A significant component of this announcement is a $14.5 billion commitment involving Boeing, GE Aerospace, and Etihad Airways.
The White House stated that Etihad Airways plans to invest $14.5 billion to purchase 28 US-made Boeing aircraft, including the 787 and 777X models powered by GE engines. This investment deepens the longstanding partnership in commercial aviation, supports American manufacturing, and promotes US exports.
Etihad CEO Antonoaldo Neves revealed that the airline intends to add 20 to 22 new aircraft this year, expanding its fleet from around 100 to over 170 planes by 2030. The new aircraft include 10 Airbus A321LRs, six Airbus A350s, and four Boeing 787s, supporting Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification efforts.
This announcement follows Boeing’s record-breaking $96 billion deal with Qatar for wide-body airplanes, highlighting the scale of US-UAE aerospace cooperation. The deals come amid political controversy surrounding Trump’s plans to accept a $400 million luxury jumbo jet from Qatar’s government, which he intends to repurpose as the new Air Force One and eventually transfer to his presidential library. Trump defended the decision, emphasizing the desire for an impressive aircraft for the US presidency.
