Qatar Airways kicks off Paris Air Show orders
Qatar Airways has placed a firm order for 24 Airbus aircraft worth almost $2 billion on the first day of the Paris Air Show.
The agreement includes 20 A320s, as well as confirming four A321 aircraft announced at the Farnborough Air Show last year.
The Doha-based carrier currently operates 19 A320 aircraft, and is the Middle East’s largest customer of the type.
The new aircraft, configured with a two-class cabin, will be deployed to expand services on regional, European and southwest Asian services.
Deliveries are due to begin in November, running through to the end of 2012.
The carrier currently has more than 200 aircraft worth more than $40 billion on order; six new routes planned over the next six months; and $1 billion worth of infrastructure improvements at Doha International Airport.
Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker said: “Our latest order demonstrates Qatar Airways’ strong commitment towards continuing its aggressive global expansion strategy.
“Despite the current shifting economic climate hanging over many economies around the world, Qatar Airways has foresight with long-term objectives and planning which means continuing our growth strategy with vigour.”
He added: “The additional Airbus A320s and A321s give Qatar Airways a firm footing in the rapid development and expansion of our regional network.
“Qatar Airways is determined to grow with the world’s best aircraft at the heart of a modern and fuel efficient fleet, and this A320 family order will ensure that our narrow-body fleet is the youngest and best equipped in the region.
“With a larger mix of narrow-body and wide-body aircraft in our fleet, this gives us even greater flexibility in our commercial operations, allowing us to deploy aircraft on specific routes depending on market conditions.”
Phil Davies
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