New Delhi, January 12
Boeing's new widebody 777-9 jet will touch down in India for the first time, as the global aerospace company brings the newest member of its widebody family to Wings India 2024 in Hyderabad.
The 777-9 flight test airplane is expected to arrive in Hyderabad on January 16 and will be on static display for Wings visitors from January 18-19.
Air India will receive ten 777-9s, as part of the carrier's "substantial order" placed in 2023, aimed at bolstering its fleet strategy and meeting the growing demand for international air travel in the rapidly expanding South Asian market, Boeing said in a press release.
Based on the successful twin-aisle airplane ever, the 777, and with advanced technologies from the 787 Dreamliner family, the 777-9 will be the world's largest and amongst efficient twin-engine jet.
Boeing has booked more than 450 orders for the 777X family, which includes the 777-8 and 777-9 passenger models and 777-8 Freighter.
"We welcome the opportunity to introduce the state-of-the-art 777-9 to India and look forward to its induction in our customers' fleets over the coming years. The 777-9 will become the flagship of many airlines around the world," said Ryan Weir, Boeing vice president, Commercial Sales and Marketing for India.
At Wings India 2024, Boeing will showcase its cutting-edge technologies, services, top-tier sustenance, and training capabilities. Besides, it will engage with customers and industry partners on the growth trajectory of India's aviation sector.
"Our dedication to bolstering India's civil aviation growth remains unwavering, providing efficient aircraft, top-notch services, and innovative solutions in line with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision," said Salil Gupte, president, Boeing India.
"We are excited to reinforce our commitment to India's aerospace industry and showcase our leading products and services at Wings India 2024."
Among its investments aimed at bolstering the growth of India's civil aviation industry, Boeing has partnered with GMR Aero Technic to establish a Boeing Converted Freighter line in Hyderabad and established a Global Support Center in Gurgaon.
Additionally, the Boeing release said it has committed a USD 100 million investment in infrastructure and pilot training programs to support India's growing demand for pilots in the coming two decades.