Qatar Airways has shaken the aviation industry with its game-changing, record-shattering aircraft order that also marks a historic moment for aircraft manufacturer Boeing.
In the largest aircraft deal in its history, the Doha-based carrier has committed to purchasing up to 210 widebody jets from Boeing, including 160 firm orders and 50 options. This is not just Qatar Airways’ biggest fleet order to date – it also stands as the largest widebody and Dreamliner order Boeing has ever received. The deal is a clear statement of intent for Qatar Airways, which aims to expand its global footprint and modernise its fleet with fuel-efficient, long-range aircraft. Qatar Airways has also signed an agreement with GE Aerospace for more than 400 engines, including 60 GE9X and 260 GEnx engines, with additional options and spares, to power its next-generation Boeing 777-9 and Boeing 787 aircraft – the largest widebody engine purchase in the history of GE Aerospace. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Eng Badr Mohammed Al-Meer said: “We are happy to announce our agreement with Boeing and our partnership in the largest widebody aircraft order in Boeing’s history and the biggest aircraft order in our history. This is a critical next step for Qatar Airways on our path as we invest in the cleanest, youngest and most efficient fleet in global aviation. This is so we can meet the strong demand in the airline as we seamlessly connect passengers to the world better than anyone.” He continued: “After two consecutive years of record-breaking commercial performance and with this historic Boeing aircraft order – we’re not simply chasing scale; we’re building strength that will allow us to continue to deliver our unmatched products and customer experiences. We thank our partners at Boeing for answering the call and look forward to a future of continued smart growth together.” The order includes: • 130 787 Dreamliners, the long-range, ultra-efficient widebody airplane family that has delivered a 25% fuel-use improvement and superior comfort for passengers. • 30 777-9s, the world’s largest twin-engine airplane that is designed to set new standards in efficiency by reducing fuel use and emissions by 25% compared to the airplanes it replaces, while elevating the passenger flight experience. • Options for an additional 50 787 and 777X airplanes. Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Stephanie Pope said: “We are deeply honoured that Qatar Airways has placed this record-breaking order with Boeing, one that solidifies their future fleet with our market-leading widebody airplane family at its centre. Our team is looking forward to building 787s and 777s for Qatar Airways into the next decade as they connect more people and businesses around the world with unmatched efficiency and comfort.” Qatar Airways currently operates more than 150 Boeing airplanes, including 777 and 787 passenger jets and 777 Freighters. With this new purchase, Qatar Airways will become the largest Dreamliner operator in the Middle East.