During a panel announcement on Day 1 of the 2013 Dubai Air Show, a joint panel announcement between the Boeing Company and aircraft engine manufacturer GE, officially announced to the world the backing of the latest family member of the Boeing 777 aircraft – the Boeing 777X.
Currently Qatar Airways fleet is a mixture of various aircraft types, including 51 Boeing 777s – both Extended Range, Long Range and Freighters (37 are currently in service with the remaining pending delivery). Addressing media at a press conference at Al Maktoum international airport, the recently opened and new venue of the Dubai Air Show, Akbar Al Baker, Chief Executive Officer, Qatar Airways said, “Today, I represent Qatar Airways and its Board Members in signing a ‘Letter Of Intent’ for the purchase of 50 Boeing 777 – 9X aircraft, valued at US$ 19 billion at list prices. For Qatar Airways, the Boeing 777 is our flagship aircraft. It has been the backbone of the fleet. Operational on many of the routes Qatar Airways flies to, it is well admired by our crew and passengers alike; it is simply a fantastic aeroplane.
“Since Qatar Airways started taking deliveries of Boeing 777s in November 2007, our fleet has been significantly enhanced, enabling the airline to reach a route map covering the entire Middle East and most of Africa; the Indian sub-continent, Europe, Asia Pacific, North and South America. The Boeing 777 fits into the airline’s strategic growth plan and that is, to offer an extensive route map with optimal connectivity and ultimately – to be the airline of choice for customers, whether it is for long-haul, short-haul, business and / or leisure travel.”
Jim McNerney, Chairman President and CEO, Boeing stated, “Boeing is very proud to have Qatar Airways amongst the launch customers for the new 777X program. Qatar Airways has enjoyed remarkable worldwide growth in recent years and we very much look forward to continuing to support the airline on its path to further success in the future.”
