Emirates to Reject First Ten Boeing 777X Jets Amid Major Program Delays

Emirates, the world’s largest 777X customer with 270 aircraft on order, has told Boeing it will not accept delivery of the first 10–11 early‑build 777‑9s. These aircraft were produced between 2019 and 2021, and due to repeated program delays, they would be eight years old by the time Boeing could deliver them in 2027. Clark said the jets are “of no use to anybody.”

He added that the extensive redesigns made since the aircraft’s early test failures mean the first batch would require complete upgrades to meet the current certified standard a process he described as commercially unrealistic.

Speaking to The Telegraph, Clark joked that the early 777‑9s would be better suited as “baked bean cans,” highlighting how outdated the aircraft have become after years of delays and modifications.

He also noted that Boeing had attempted to find another buyer for the jets, but given their age and required rework, they would likely need to be sold for as little as $10 million or simply scrapped.

Boeing has dismantled at least one early Emirates‑configured 777‑9 rather than pay the enormous rework costs. Clark said the aircraft had been “standing on their wheels for years,” parked outside Renton and “looking very sad.”

Despite the rejection of early aircraft, Emirates still expects to receive new‑standard 777‑9s in Q2 2027, following FAA Type Inspection Authorization Phase 4B approval earlier in 2026, a major milestone toward certification.

Clark emphasized that Emirates has “high visibility” over the program, with teams stationed at Boeing’s Everett facility monitoring production. He expects Boeing to scrap most early airframes rather than attempt costly upgrades.