Qatar Airways Expands Fleet

Qatar based Qatar Airways recently announced in a press release that they have agreed to purchase thirty five new Boeing aircraft. Qatar Airways will be replace old aircraft currently used, and expand to more destinations. The purchase agreement is for thirty of Boeing's 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft and the 777 Freight aircraft. The 787 Dreamliner is Boeing's newest aircraft, comprised of carbon fiber, rather than aluminum as in past aircraft. This new design will allow for less fuel consumption, allowing for more economical flights. At Boeing's list price, these aircraft are worth around 6.1 billion US Dollars.

Qatar Airways CEO, Akbar Al Baker, had the following to say about the newest purchase of aircraft. "Qatar Airways' mission is one of overall excellence. We look forward to utilizing our new Boeing airplanes so that we can further enhance service to our passengers, while also playing a pivotal role in the economic development of the State of Qatar through expanded and optimized cargo operations."

Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president of Sales for the Middle East and Africa, Lee Monson, had this to say at the press conference. "Our relationship with Qatar Airways has grown immensely. With 57 orders spread across the core of our twin-aisle offerings, this validation of our product strategy by such a renowned airline is truly valued by Boeing's leadership and very rewarding for the members of our dedicated Middle East team."

About Qatar Airways: Qatar Airways is the national airline of Qatar, operating a hub out of Doha International Airport. Qatar Airways has been operating flights across the Middle East for nearly 15 years, after the royal family of Qatar saw a need for an airline that served the country.

About the Ordered Aircraft: The Boeing 787-8 is Boeing's newest commercial aircraft. This newly designed aircraft takes advantage of newly discovered techniques, allowing for a more fuel efficient plane, which can fly further than planes it is designed to replace. The Boeing 787-8 will seat between 210 and 250 passengers, depending on how the airline chooses to configure the aircraft.

The aircraft will be able to fly passengers between 7,500 and 8,000 nautical miles, which will enable Qatar Airways to serve nearly every major city across the world. The Boeing 777Frieghter will be able to carry nearly half a million pounds of cargo over a distance of 4,500 nautical miles. This freight aircraft will allow Qatar to operate dedicated freight service to most destinations across Europe, Asia and Africa, and one-stop operations to nearly everywhere on the planet.