In a recent development, Qatar Airways (QR, Doha Hamad International) has initiated a Request For Proposals (RFP) to aircraft manufacturers Boeing and Airbus, signaling its intent for a substantial aircraft order. CEO Badr Al Meer disclosed this information to CNBC late last week. While specifics such as the exact number of aircraft and procurement timelines were not disclosed, industry reports suggest a range of 100 to 150 twin-aisle planes.
The impending order is expected to focus predominantly on models such as the Boeing 777X and the Airbus A350, aimed at replacing older widebody aircraft within the carrier’s fleet approaching retirement. However, the precise allocation between the two manufacturers remains undecided.
“We released an RFP to create some competition between both suppliers,” Al Meer remarked during the CNBC interview. “We will go through the process, and, with an order this significant, we need to take our time.”
Despite requests for comment, Qatar Airways did not provide any additional information.
Currently, Qatar’s widebody passenger fleet consists of various aircraft types with varying ages. These include A330-200s, A330-300s, A350-1000s, A350-900s, A380-800s, B777-200LRs, B777-300ERs, B787-8s, and B787-9s. Notably, the carrier’s outstanding orders encompass additional A350-1000s, a B777-F, B777-9s, and B787-9s.
CEO Al Meer also addressed challenges faced by both Boeing and Airbus in terms of production issues and delivery delays, expressing their impact on Qatar Airways’ operations. “We are always looking to grow and expand our fleet and network,” he emphasized. “Without timely aircraft deliveries, meeting passenger demand becomes challenging. While both manufacturers encounter certain challenges, we maintain confidence in their capabilities to overcome these hurdles.”
