Boeing lands its biggest order ever

CHICAGO, Nov. 14 (UPI) -- U.S. planemaker Boeing said it has landed the largest order in its history in terms of money value -- an $18 billion Emirates Airline order for 50 planes.

Boeing made the announcement in a statement Sunday. Emirates Airline, the company said, ordered 50 Boeing 777-300ERs, the ER standing for extended range.

The contract includes an option for an additional 20 planes for $8 billion more. For the company, the contract brings total orders for the 777 series jets to 182.

Emirates is already the largest 777 owner with 94 of the jets in its fleet, "plus an additional unfilled orders on backlog for 41 777-300ERs," Boeing said.

Boeing President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Albaugh said input from the airline has guided the 777's development.

"Emirates has played an important role in development of the airplane and its input over the years has been invaluable in the development of the 777 program," he said in a statement.