International Airlines Group has committed to purchasing up to 42 Boeing 777X airplanes, including 18 777-9s and 24 options, for subsidiary British Airways.

According to IAG, the new aircraft will be used to replace 14 747-400s and four 777-200s between 2022 and 2025.

“The new 777-9 is the world’s most fuel-efficient long-haul aircraft and will bring many benefits to British Airways’ fleet,” said Willie Walsh, chief executive of IAG. “It’s the ideal replacement for the 747 and its size and range will be an excellent fit for the airline’s existing network. This aircraft will provide further cost efficiencies and environmental benefits with fuel-cost-per-seat improvements of 30% compared to the 747.”

The 777-9 will be the largest twin-engine jet in the world, featuring enhancements such as a new composite wing and folding wingtips. It will be powered by General Electric GE9X engines and has a standard range of 7,600 nautical miles or 14,075 kilometres.

“British Airways is one of the most iconic international carriers, now in its 100th year of connecting the world with its impressive route network,” said Kevin McAllister, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We are honoured that British Airways has selected the 777X as part of its fleet for its next century. Together with the 787 Dreamliner, we are excited for the 777X to help British Airways build on its incredible legacy. The 777-9, in particular, simply has no competitor in its class when it comes to efficiency and performance. It is the right-sized airplane for British Airways to efficiently serve long-range routes with heavy passenger demand.”

The 777X family now has 358 orders and commitments from eight customers. Production began in 2017, with first flight planned for later this year and first delivery expected in 2020.

British Airways has 135 widebody aircraft in its fleet, consisting of 12 Airbus A380s, 35 747-400s, three 777-200s, 43 777-200ERs, 12 B777-300ERs, 12 787-8s and 18 787-9s, with 18 A350-1000s, four 777-300ERs and 12 787-10s on order.