Cathay Pacific has announced that it is the first Asia customer for the Boeing 777-9X after ordering 21 aircraft. The order is estimated to be worth US$7.9 billion at the current listed price. The production of the 9X will start in 2017 with deliveries to Cathay scheduled to take place between 2021 and 2024. Cathay is currently operates 55 777 aircraft, including 38 B777-300ERs, making it the second-largest operator of the 300ER.

The 9X will be the newest member of the 777 family and will have a larger twin engine with an increased payload leading to lower fuel consumption and operation cost. The 9X can seat approximately 400 passengers depending on seat configuration and has a range of 15,185 kilometers, making it ideal for long-haul flights.

For more information, visit Cathay Pacific.