In a bid to bolster its fleet and meet surging international travel demands, Qatar Airways is reportedly in early discussions with Boeing and Airbus to acquire between 100 to 150 widebody jets. This move comes as major airlines scramble to secure modern, fuel-efficient aircraft to navigate the evolving landscape of the aviation industry.
According to sources familiar with the matter revealed that the order will likely focus on the Airbus A350 or Boeing 777X models, both renowned for their advanced features and operational efficiency. Qatar Airways’ CEO Badr Mohammed Al Meer confirmed the airline’s interest, stating they have submitted a request for a proposal for a “big” new aircraft order.
Despite the apparent momentum, Airbus and Boeing have remained tight-lipped about the specifics of the discussions. “We are in constant dialogue with our customers, but we never comment on the confidential content of our talks,” said Airbus. Boeing, on the other hand, deferred to Qatar Airways for any official statement, while the airline itself chose not to comment on the matter.
This potential expansion comes on the heels of recent developments for both manufacturers. Qatar Airways recently announced the full restoration of its A350 fleet to service after resolving a legal dispute with Airbus over paint damage, signaling a renewed partnership between the two entities. Meanwhile, Boeing’s 777X program, which has garnered substantial orders worldwide, has faced significant delays, raising questions about its future performance.
As the aviation industry continues to navigate challenges such as fluctuating fuel prices and shifting travel patterns, Qatar Airways’ strategic move to expand its fleet underscores the critical role of modern, fuel-efficient aircraft in securing airlines’ competitive edge in the global market.
(Source: Reuters | Bloomberg | Nasdaq)
