In a landmark agreement that marks the largest widebody aircraft order in Boeing’s history, Qatar Airways has committed to purchasing up to 210 Boeing jets in a deal valued at $96 billion. The historic contract, signed on May 14, 2025, during U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to Qatar, is expected to create thousands of jobs across the United States, with South Carolina poised to receive a significant economic boost.
The Deal Breakdown
The massive order includes firm commitments for 130 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 30 Boeing 777X aircraft, with options for an additional 50 jets. All aircraft will be powered by GE Aerospace engines, making this also the largest engine order in GE Aerospace’s history.
“We are deeply honored that Qatar Airways has placed this record-breaking order with Boeing, one that solidifies their future fleet with our market-leading widebody airplane family at its center,” said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, in a company statement.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer described the order as a “critical next step” for the airline, allowing it to maintain “the cleanest, youngest, and most efficient fleet in global aviation”.
Economic Impact on South Carolina
The North Charleston Boeing facility, which is responsible for the majority of Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner production, stands to benefit tremendously from this deal. Currently employing over 8,000 workers, the plant could see a substantial increase in its workforce.
North Charleston Mayor Reggie Burgess told NewsNation that while he is uncertain about the exact number of new jobs the agreement could generate, he is confident that his city will be able to “fill them all,” emphasizing, “We’re discussing thousands and thousands of jobs”.
Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) called the agreement “a gamechanger” and “fantastic news for South Carolina and Boeing”, confirming that the new planes would be assembled at Boeing’s Charleston facility.
Broader Economic Benefits
According to the White House and Boeing, the $96 billion agreement will support approximately 400,000 U.S. jobs throughout the production phase. Local business owners in North Charleston anticipate a transformative impact on the regional economy.
“Most of our business comes from contractors who are truck drivers and working-class individuals. If this can attract more of them here, it would undoubtedly enhance everything for us,” said Li Farmer, a restaurant manager in North Charleston, in an interview with local media.
Strategic Significance
The deal represents a major win for Boeing, which has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including production issues, safety concerns, and labor strikes. The company reported losses exceeding $10 billion last year following a significant incident in January 2024 involving the blowout of a panel on one of its aircraft.
Despite these setbacks, Boeing’s shares have risen approximately 20% since January 2025, reflecting growing optimism about its recovery. The Qatar Airways transaction further strengthens the long-standing partnership between Boeing and the state-run airline, which already operates 150 Boeing aircraft and had more than 130 jets on order prior to this new agreement.
Delivery Timeline and Industry Context
Industry analysts note that due to existing backlogs and certification delays, particularly with the 777X program, deliveries of the newly ordered aircraft will likely take at least five years. The 777X is still awaiting certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, with first deliveries now expected in 2026.
Both Boeing and its European rival Airbus have struggled in recent years with supply chain problems as they manage thousands of plane orders amid strong airline demand.
Political Dimensions
The agreement was signed during a ceremony attended by President Donald Trump, Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg, and Qatar Airways CEO Badr Mohammed Al-Meer.
“It’s the largest order of jets in the history of Boeing. That’s pretty good,” Trump remarked during the signing event. “So that’s a record, Kelly, and congratulations to Boeing. Get those planes out there, get them out there”.
In a statement regarding the deal, the White House referred to Trump as the “dealmaker in chief“, highlighting his role in facilitating the massive economic agreement between the U.S. and Qatar.
The Qatar Airways order is part of a broader package exceeding $240 billion in economic agreements between the United States and Qatar unveiled during Trump’s Middle East trip, which also included stops in Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
As Boeing works to rebuild its business following recent challenges, this record-breaking order signals renewed confidence in the American aerospace manufacturer and promises significant economic benefits for South Carolina and the broader U.S. manufacturing sector.