FLEET - Qatar Airways sells, leases back three A350-1000s

Qatar Airways (QR, Doha Hamad International) has sold and leased back three A350-1000s to BOC Aviation. 

All three units have already been delivered to the airline. 

Qatar Airways operates a fleet of twenty-eight A350-1000s (with 16 more on order), of which it has thus far owned 11 units. BOC Aviation owns nine A350-900s and one B777-300ER leased to the Qatari carrier.
 CH Aviation / Photo: Duncan Stewart

Statement on Low-pass Freighter Video

We are aware of a video circulating on social media depicting a freighter aircraft, in Qatar Airways livery, conducting a low-pass. The aircraft in the video is owned by a leasing company and not by Qatar Airways. The aircraft was undergoing a pre-delivery test flight prior to its planned entry into our cargo fleet. The flight was not operated by Qatar Airways and the pilots were not our personnel.

QATAR

SPECIAL COLOURS - Qatar Airways Unveils FIFA Special Livery and Bespoke Onboard Experience

The uniquely branded Boeing 777 will operate across key destinations in Europe, the United States, and Asia, bringing the spirit of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ to passengers worldwide

DOHA, Qatar – Qatar Airways has officially unveiled its FIFA special livery aircraft on a Boeing 777 ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026™, celebrating the airline’s longstanding partnership with FIFA and its continued role in connecting fans, teams, and global football communities worldwide.
Building on the legacy of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, the new livery reflects the next chapter in Qatar Airways’ journey with FIFA as the Official Airline Partner of the FIFA World Cup 2026™. The special livery aircraft will operate across key destinations in Europe, the United States and Asia, engaging fans around the world as excitement continues to build ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
Inspired by the energy, passion, and global unity of football’s biggest tournament, the distinctive new livery captures the vibrant spirit of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ through its bold and dynamic design that will travel throughout the airline’s global network.

 

In addition to the exterior design, the aircraft interior features bespoke cabin dressing inspired by FIFA World Cup 2026™. Designed exclusively for this special livery, it brings the ambiance and excitement of the tournament into the inflight experience. Following the tournament, the aircraft will continue to fly with both the special livery and cabin dressing to commemorate the event.
As the Official Airline Partner of FIFA, Qatar Airways continues to play a leading role in global sport, connecting fans, teams, and destinations through its growing international network and award-winning travel experience.
The FIFA World Cup 2026™ will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, bringing together the world’s best national teams in the largest edition of the tournament to date.

 

SPECIAL COLOURS - Qatar Airways Unveils New Formula 1® Livery with Exclusive Experience at Spectacular Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix Weekend

The airline’s Boeing 777 aircraft with the iconic livery designed by Swizz Beatz will be touching down in major destinations around the world this winter

DOHA, Qatar – Qatar Airways concluded an unforgettable Qatar Grand Prix weekend, delivering a vibrant showcase of sport, innovation, and culture both on and off the track. The airline and Title Partner of Formula 1® extends its congratulations to Max Verstappen as the winner of the Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix.

Ahead of Saturday’s Sprint race, thousands witnessed the Qatar Airways celebratory flypast over the Lusail International Circuit, after media and invited guests experienced a special preview of the airline’s new F1®-themed livery designed by Swizz Beatz. Media were invited to experience the flypast from inside the aircraft which was equipped by Starlink high-speed "gate-to-gate" Wi-Fi which provided the media live broadcast capability onboard the flight as it flew above the Lusail International Circuit.

The new livery was then officially unveiled at the Qatar Airways Hangar, with a special entrance from Kevin Hart in which he appeared to be an F1 driver performing celebratory ‘doughnuts’. The launch event was attended by the airline’s star partners including David Beckham, Jessica Alba, Rio Ferdinand, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Swizz Beatz, and Novak Djokovic – marking one of the race weekend’s most anticipated highlights.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “This weekend, Qatar Airways brought together innovation and passion by engaging with leading forces in the fields of sport and arts to offer an unmatched community experience. The debut of our latest F1 livery drew a massive interest from sport enthusiasts, creatives, and aviation buffs – making our flypast the most tracked flight for an entire 24-hour cycle on Flightradar24. Judging by the global reaction we have already seen; I can confidently say that this F1 design will go down in history as one of the most iconic aircraft liveries in global aviation.”

The World’s Best Airline, as voted by Skytrax in 2025 for the ninth time, is adding to the season’s travel excitement – its Boeing 777 aircraft with the captivating livery will be seen across the world this winter, with touchdowns in global destinations including London, Melbourne, New York, and Tokyo. The aircraft can be tracked live with its registration: A7-BEG.

QATAR
 

SPECIAL COLOURS - Qatar Airways / B777-3DZER / A7-BEG - Qatar´s new F1 livery taking off after spending almost one month at IAC facilities at Teruel

Teruel - LETL, Spain
Photo: Fabrizio Spicuglia

 Qatar Airways and Swizz Beatz Launch ‘The Qatar Airways Creative 100’

Unveiled at Art Basel Paris 2025, the first global creative platform by an airline celebrates the world’s most visionary talents

DOHA, Qatar – In a global first, Qatar Airways has announced a ground-breaking cultural partnership with Grammy Award-winning artist, entrepreneur, and international creative force, Swizz Beatz. The collaboration was unveiled at an event at Art Basel Paris 2025, where Qatar Airways, the World’s Best Airline as voted by Skytrax in 2025, also serves as a Premium Partner across all five of Art Basel’s world leading fairs.

To mark the start of the partnership, ‘The Dean Collection’, founded by Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys, has united with Qatar Airways for the inaugural Qatar Airways Creative 100 – an annual platform celebrating the most influential creatives whose work is shaping the future of global culture. From art and design to music, technology, sport and beyond, the list will bring together the true tastemakers of the current time. The initiative will be inaugurated by a flagship event during Art Basel Qatar in February 2026.

The yearly “Creative 100” will spotlight 100 visionaries whose work transcends borders. The first creatives announced include Black Coffee – the Grammy Award-winning South African DJ and producer; Miles Chamley-Watson – the Olympic fencing champion and style innovator; Kristian Teär – CEO of Danish high-end electronics company Bang & Olufsen; Yoon Ahn – an American fashion designer who co-founded AMBUSH and is the current Jewellery Director for Dior Homme; and Flavio Manzoni – Ferrari’s Chief Design Officer. From the world of arts, the inductees include Kennedy Yanko – a sculptor who meshes creations with salvaged metal paint skin, and Patrick Eugene – a visual artist whose works explore identity, culture, and the human experience.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: "At Qatar Airways, creativity fuels everything we do. As the World’s Best Airline, creativity shapes how we innovate, connect cultures, and reimagine the experience of travel. Our partnership with Swizz Beatz reflects that same spirit – a shared belief that creativity has the power to inspire, to unite, and to transform the way the world connects. Through the Qatar Airways Creative 100, we celebrate those whose ideas shape culture, bringing people together through creativity and artistry across borders.”

The Dean Collection Co-Founder, Swizz Beatz, said: “Qatar Airways doesn’t just move people, it moves the world. That’s why this partnership feels so natural. Together, we’re creating a platform that shines a light on the most inspiring people of our time. The Qatar Airways Creative 100, in collaboration with The Dean Collection, is the first step.”

The partnership will lend its impact to the Qatar Airways passenger journey through merchandise and various onboard experiences. As the first expression of creativity from the Qatar Airways Creative 100, the two collaborative forces revealed renders of a special edition Formula 1® livery – celebrating its role as Global Airline Partner during the announcement. An additional livery to commemorate the airline’s partnership with The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is set to be revealed at a later stage.

Qatar Airways will also introduce a dedicated digital home for the Qatar Airways Creative 100. It will act as a cultural hub that showcases films, interviews, podcasts, and city guides designed by global creators. The platform will also deliver exclusive benefits for its Privilege Club members, including access to exclusive masterclasses led by Creative 100 inductees, and priority invitations to flagship cultural events.

Globally known by his stage name Swizz Beatz, Kassem Daoud Dean was born in Bronx, New York, and is a Grammy Award–winning music producer, artist, and a Harvard Business School graduate with a multi-decade career spanning the fields of entertainment, art, and brand. He co-founded The Dean Collection, a private family art collection with his wife and music icon, Alicia Keys. Their collection was the subject of the 2024 Brooklyn Museum exhibition called ‘Giants’. The collection continues to be exhibited at national and international art institutes, presenting a world-class group of multi-generational artists until 2030, with more than 500,000 attendees in just three shows thus far.

Earlier this year, Qatar Airways announced a new global partnership with Art Basel, the world’s leading contemporary art fair. As Art Basel’s Premium Partner, the airline will support all of the fair’s prestigious annual exhibitions in Basel, Paris, Hong Kong, Miami Beach, as well as its newly launched edition in Qatar. This alliance goes beyond sponsorship and aims to deepen the airline’s connection with a culture and art forward global demographic through one of the world’s most respected names in the art sector.

QATAR

Qatar Airways and Swizz Beatz Launch ‘The Qatar Airways Creative 100’

Unveiled at Art Basel Paris 2025, the first global creative platform by an airline celebrates the world’s most visionary talents

DOHA, Qatar – In a global first, Qatar Airways has announced a ground-breaking cultural partnership with Grammy Award-winning artist, entrepreneur, and international creative force, Swizz Beatz. The collaboration was unveiled at an event at Art Basel Paris 2025, where Qatar Airways, the World’s Best Airline as voted by Skytrax in 2025, also serves as a Premium Partner across all five of Art Basel’s world leading fairs.

To mark the start of the partnership, ‘The Dean Collection’, founded by Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys, has united with Qatar Airways for the inaugural Qatar Airways Creative 100 – an annual platform celebrating the most influential creatives whose work is shaping the future of global culture. From art and design to music, technology, sport and beyond, the list will bring together the true tastemakers of the current time. The initiative will be inaugurated by a flagship event during Art Basel Qatar in February 2026.

The yearly “Creative 100” will spotlight 100 visionaries whose work transcends borders. The first creatives announced include Black Coffee – the Grammy Award-winning South African DJ and producer; Miles Chamley-Watson – the Olympic fencing champion and style innovator; Kristian Teär – CEO of Danish high-end electronics company Bang & Olufsen; Yoon Ahn – an American fashion designer who co-founded AMBUSH and is the current Jewellery Director for Dior Homme; and Flavio Manzoni – Ferrari’s Chief Design Officer. From the world of arts, the inductees include Kennedy Yanko – a sculptor who meshes creations with salvaged metal paint skin, and Patrick Eugene – a visual artist whose works explore identity, culture, and the human experience.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: "At Qatar Airways, creativity fuels everything we do. As the World’s Best Airline, creativity shapes how we innovate, connect cultures, and reimagine the experience of travel. Our partnership with Swizz Beatz reflects that same spirit – a shared belief that creativity has the power to inspire, to unite, and to transform the way the world connects. Through the Qatar Airways Creative 100, we celebrate those whose ideas shape culture, bringing people together through creativity and artistry across borders.”

The Dean Collection Co-Founder, Swizz Beatz, said: “Qatar Airways doesn’t just move people, it moves the world. That’s why this partnership feels so natural. Together, we’re creating a platform that shines a light on the most inspiring people of our time. The Qatar Airways Creative 100, in collaboration with The Dean Collection, is the first step.”

The partnership will lend its impact to the Qatar Airways passenger journey through merchandise and various onboard experiences. As the first expression of creativity from the Qatar Airways Creative 100, the two collaborative forces revealed renders of a special edition Formula 1® livery – celebrating its role as Global Airline Partner during the announcement. An additional livery to commemorate the airline’s partnership with The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is set to be revealed at a later stage.

Qatar Airways will also introduce a dedicated digital home for the Qatar Airways Creative 100. It will act as a cultural hub that showcases films, interviews, podcasts, and city guides designed by global creators. The platform will also deliver exclusive benefits for its Privilege Club members, including access to exclusive masterclasses led by Creative 100 inductees, and priority invitations to flagship cultural events.

Globally known by his stage name Swizz Beatz, Kassem Daoud Dean was born in Bronx, New York, and is a Grammy Award–winning music producer, artist, and a Harvard Business School graduate with a multi-decade career spanning the fields of entertainment, art, and brand. He co-founded The Dean Collection, a private family art collection with his wife and music icon, Alicia Keys. Their collection was the subject of the 2024 Brooklyn Museum exhibition called ‘Giants’. The collection continues to be exhibited at national and international art institutes, presenting a world-class group of multi-generational artists until 2030, with more than 500,000 attendees in just three shows thus far.

 

Earlier this year, Qatar Airways announced a new global partnership with Art Basel, the world’s leading contemporary art fair. As Art Basel’s Premium Partner, the airline will support all of the fair’s prestigious annual exhibitions in Basel, Paris, Hong Kong, Miami Beach, as well as its newly launched edition in Qatar. This alliance goes beyond sponsorship and aims to deepen the airline’s connection with a culture and art forward global demographic through one of the world’s most respected names in the art sector.
 

ROUTES - Qatar Airways Lands Inaugural Flight at The Red Sea, Saudi Arabia

The World’s Best Airline, as voted by Skytrax in 2025, now offers three weekly non-stop flights between Doha and The Red Sea
Qatar Airways currently operates more than 130 weekly flights across 12 Saudi gateways, showcasing its commitment to enhancing connectivity in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

The Red Sea, Saudi Arabia – Qatar Airways today marks the launch of three weekly non-stop flights to Red Sea International Airport (RSI), operated by daa International, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from Hamad International Airport (DOH), the Best Airport in the Middle East as voted by Skytrax in 2025.

The Red Sea is the 12th destination in Saudi Arabia to be serviced by Qatar Airways, following operations in Abha, AlUla, Dammam, Jeddah, Medina, NEOM, Qassim, Riyadh, Tabuk, Taif, and Yanbu. This expansion reinforces Qatar Airways’ position in the Saudi market and demonstrates the airline’s long-term commitment to enhancing connectivity across the Kingdom.

The RSI service further adds to the airline’s global network of more than 170 destinations, offering seamless connections for travellers from across six continents, including Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Europe to the Kingdom’s west coast through Doha.

Upon landing, Qatar Airways delegation headed by Qatar Airways SVP Business Control and Financial Support, Mr. Abdullah Al Malki, and VP Sales – Middle East, Caucasus, Pakistan & ISC, Mr. Karthik Viswanathan, and Head of Aeropolitical & Regulatory Affairs, Sheikh Jassim bin Fahad Al-Thani, was welcomed by John Pagano, Group CEO at Red Sea Global – the developer behind The Red Sea destination and RSI, and Andrew Tyler-Smith, Chief Executive Officer at RSI.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “We at Qatar Airways are proud to expand our global network of more than 170 destinations with the inauguration of service to The Red Sea. The importance of the Saudi market, and our commitment to it, is proven by the growing reach of our services in the Kingdom. This new route – a testament to the close ties between the two countries – offers travellers seamless, world class access to one of the Middle East’s emerging destinations onboard the World’s Best Airline.”

RSG Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. John Pagano, said: “Welcoming Qatar Airways to Red Sea International Airport is a key step in giving more travellers from around the world easy access to The Red Sea destination. With the opening of Shura Island last month and our second destination AMAALA welcoming guests in the coming months, enhanced international connectivity means even more people can now experience the best of Saudi culture, hospitality, and nature in one of the most picturesque places on the planet."

Red Sea International Airport CEO, Mr. Andrew Tyler-Smith, said: “We are thrilled to be welcoming our second international route to Red Sea International Airport, a connection from Doha to The Red Sea through Qatar Airways. This new service introduces an efficient gateway to a wide range of European destinations, unlocking critical access to key target source markets for the first time. As we continue to grow our airline portfolio, each new route reinforces our role as a strategic hub for tourism. We look forward to welcoming more travellers from around the world to enjoy the unparalleled luxury of The Red Sea destination.”

The Red Sea is a pioneering destination on Saudi Arabia’s west coast, inviting guests to experience a place of extraordinary natural beauty.

Located on Saudi Arabia’s western coastline between the cities of Umluj and Al Wajh, The Red Sea is one of the emerging tourism destinations encompassing more than 90 untouched islands, coral-fringed waters, sweeping desert landscapes, volcanic mountain ranges, and one of the largest reef systems in the world.

Currently, The Red Sea welcomes guests from around the globe with six luxury resorts. Shura Island, the heart of The Red Sea, began welcoming guests in 2025, and will be home to 11 exceptional resorts alongside the Shura Links golf course, a marina, and retail and dining experiences.

Qatar Airways flights to The Red Sea (RSI)

Departing every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday:
Doha (DOH) to The Red Sea (RSI) – Flight QR1226: Departure 07:45; Arrival 10:45
The Red Sea (RSI) to Doha (DOH) – Flight QR1227: Departure 11:45; Arrival 14:15

Qatar Airways Privilege Club members can make their trips more rewarding by collecting Avios on their flights as well as shopping and dining at Qatar Duty Free at Hamad International Airport. Members can spend their Avios on travel and lifestyle rewards of their choice including bidding on money-can’t-buy experiences with Privilege Club Collection.

Qatar Airways, a benchmark for excellence in the industry, remains a prominent leader in global connectivity and operates to over 170 destinations worldwide.

 

SPECIAL COLOURS - PSG Returns to Paris with Qatar Airways, Airline Dedicates Special UEFA Champions League Livery to Bring the Champions Home

DOHA, Qatar - Paris welcomes back its Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) champions and the UEFA Champions League (UCL) trophy on-board a Qatar Airways Boeing 777 decorated with special painted livery. The celebration marks the continuation of an historic weekend, where the award-winning airline was proud to showcase its partnership portfolio.

 QATAR AIRWAYS

ORDER - Boeing and Qatar Airways Announce Historic Order for up to 210 Widebody Airplanes

Ceremonial signing witnessed by U.S. President Donald J. Trump and His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Amir of the State of Qatar

- Agreement for 130 787 Dreamliners and 30 777X airplanes sets a record as the largest widebody order for Boeing, the largest order for 787 Dreamliners and Qatar Airways' largest-ever order

- Order will support nearly 400,000 jobs in the U.S.

DOHA, Qatar, May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Qatar Airways and Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced the carrier will purchase up to 210 widebody jets, which sets new records as the largest widebody order for Boeing, including the largest order for 787 Dreamliners and Qatar Airways largest-ever order. This purchase, which also includes additional orders for Boeing's new 777-9, will support approximately 400,000 jobs in the U.S. and position the award-winning Middle Eastern airline for further international expansion.

130 787 Dreamliners, the long-range, ultra-efficient widebody airplane family that has delivered a 25% fuel-use improvement compared to airplanes it replaces and superior comfort for passengers. Ten orders were previously booked as unidentified.

30 777-9s, the world's largest twin-engine airplane that is designed to set new standards in efficiency by reducing fuel use and emissions by 25% compared to the airplanes it replaces, while elevating the passenger flight experience.

Options for an additional 50 787 and 777X airplanes.

U.S. President Donald J. Trump and His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Amir of the State of Qatar joined Boeing President and CEO Kelly Ortberg, Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Stephanie Pope and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer to witness the order signing.

"We are happy to announce our agreement with Boeing and our partnership in the largest aircraft order in our history. A critical next step for Qatar Airways on our path as we invest in the cleanest, youngest and most efficient fleet in global aviation. This so we can meet the strong demand in the airline as we seamlessly connect passengers to the world better than anyone," said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer. "After two consecutive years of record-breaking commercial performance and with this historic Boeing aircraft order we're not simply chasing scale, we're building strength that will allow us to continue to deliver our unmatched products and customer experiences. We thank our Boeing partners for answering the call and look forward to a future of continued smart growth together."

"We are deeply honored that Qatar Airways has placed this record-breaking order with Boeing, one that solidifies their future fleet with our market-leading widebody airplane family at its center," said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Our team is looking forward to building 787s and 777s for Qatar Airways into the next decade as they connect more people and businesses around the world with unmatched efficiency and comfort."

Qatar Airways currently operates more than 150 Boeing airplanes, including 777 and 787 passenger jets and 777 Freighters. With this purchase, Qatar Airways will become the largest 787 Dreamliner operator in the Middle East.

 

Qatar Airways Nears Boeing 777 Fleet-Wide Starlink Upgrade, Set to Expand to Airbus A350 this Month

Industry-first Airbus A350 fleet-wide upgrade begins this month, further elevating Qatar Airways’ unmatched in-flight WiFi experience

Qatar Airways operates the largest Starlink-equipped fleet of Boeing 777 in the world that has completed more than 6,000 flights in the airline’s network of over 170 destinations


DOHA, Qatar – Qatar Airways, the largest global airline offering Starlink’s high-speed internet on-board, is now a few aircraft away from completing its Boeing 777 fleet-wide upgrade. The airline’s rapid rollout reinforces in-flight innovation leadership and marks one of the fastest and most ambitious Starlink installations in the aviation industry.

In its latest global first, Qatar Airways will begin equipping its Airbus A350 fleet with Starlink Wi-Fi this month, becoming the first airline in the world to bring this cutting-edge connectivity to passengers onboard the Airbus A350 aircraft type.

This expansion follows the airline’s success with the Boeing 777 and will see even more passengers enjoying fully complimentary, ultra-fast Wi-Fi for streaming, gaming, and working seamlessly at 35,000 feet.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “We are just a few aircraft away from completing a full fleet-wide upgrade of our Boeing 777s with Starlink connectivity—an industry-first for a widebody fleet of this scale. In April, we will become the first airline in the world to begin equipping the Airbus A350 with Starlink, taking another bold step in our journey of redefining connectivity in the skies. We affirm our continual efforts to enhance our onboard WiFi experience, ensuring passengers enjoy greater comfort, convenience, and service.”


With more than 80 per cent of its Boeing 777 fleet equipped with Starlink, the airline has operated more than 6,000 global flights with unparalleled and fastest gate-to-gate internet WiFi connectivity, unmatched by any other airline in the MENA region.

As a next-generation aircraft operated on many of Qatar Airways’ most strategic routes, the Airbus A350 upgrade reflects the airline’s continued investment in enhancing passenger experience on every journey.

With installations carefully timed to avoid any disruption to operations, the World’s Best Airline, as voted by Skytrax in 2024, continues to lead the industry in delivering seamless, high-speed WiFi connectivity on-board and award-winning service to passengers wherever they fly.

QATAR

FLEET - Qatar Airways Announces Order for 20 More Boeing 777-9 Passenger Jets

- 777X launch customer takes 777X order book to nearly 100 airplanes

- Order part of growth plan that includes 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Qatar Airways announced today the Middle Eastern airline's order for 20 more 777-9 airplanes, which will be the world's largest and most fuel-efficient twin-engine jet. The order, which expands the carrier's 777X order book to nearly 100 airplanes, was finalized this year and listed as unidentified on Boeing's Orders & Deliveries website.

The award-winning airline helped launch the 777X program and now has on order 60 777-9 passenger airplanes. Qatar Airways is also the inaugural launch customer for the 777-8 Freighter and has 34 of the next generation cargo jet on order.


"Qatar Airways is proud to announce an expansion to the existing Boeing 777X aircraft order with an additional 20, totalling 94 Boeing 777X aircraft," said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer. "We, as the World's Best Airline, are an industry leader and operate one of the youngest fleets, offering unparalleled innovation and quality. Keeping an eye on the future, we continue to ensure that all Qatar Airways passengers are only met with the best products and services available in the industry."

Based on the popular Boeing 777 family and with advanced technologies from the 787 Dreamliner, the 777X program is designed to set new standards of efficiency, environmental performance and passenger experience. The 777-9 is the largest in the family and will help operators open new growth opportunities with capacity for 426 passengers in a typical two-class configuration and a range of 7,295 nautical miles (13,510 km).

Earlier this month, Boeing began certification flight testing for the 777-9, which will offer a new level of passenger comfort with a spacious cabin, better humidity, a quiet environment and increased natural light.

"Qatar Airways is a leader in our industry, and we are honored the airline added 20 more 777-9 jets to its large Boeing order book," said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We appreciate their confidence that Boeing's market-leading widebody family will provide outstanding fuel efficiency and a superior passenger experience for its global operations."

In addition to the 777X family, Qatar Airways has 12 787 Dreamliner and 25 737 MAX aircraft on order.

Boeing's 2024 Commercial Market Outlook forecasts that twin-aisle jets such as its 777X and 787 Dreamliner will make up 44% of the region's fleet across Middle Eastern operators over the next 20 years.

 

FLEET - Qatar Airways issues RFP for new aircraft

Photo: Duncan Stewart

In an interview with CNBC, the CEO of Qatar Airways announced on 14 March 2024, that the airline has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to both Airbus and Boeing in which the airline is seeking new aircraft.

The CEO was vague about what kind of aircraft, and how many he was planning to order, but did emphasized the order would be "big" and used to renew and expand its fleet. A timeline for the order also wasn't provided by the CEO and that an order this "big" will take time to go through all the motions.

However, according to Reuters, the order would be for up to 150 aircraft and that the airline will be deciding on ordering additional Airbus A350s and/or Boeing B777Xs.

Today, the Qatar Airways-fleet is made-up of 29 Airbus A320s, three A330-200s, seven A330-300s, 34 A350-900s, 24 A350-1000s, eight A380-800s, nine Boeing B737-8s, seven B777-200LRs, 57 B777-300ERs, 27 B777Fs, 30 B787-8s, and seventeen B787-9s.

The airline currently has open orders with Airbus for 50 A321neos and eighteen A350-1000s, and with Boeing for 25 B737-8s, one B777F, 74 B777Xs, and thirteen B787-9s.

SPECIAL COLORS - QATAR AIRWAYS / A330-300 / A7-AED - "Expo 2023"

Alain Charpentier
 

SPECIAL LIVERY - Qatar Airways kicks off the new football season with a branded Paris Saint-Germain livery on Boeing 777 aircraft

As the Official Airline Partner and the Official Jersey Partner of the Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) team, Qatar Airways showcased its new livery on one of its Boeing 777.

This marks another year of celebrating the strong partnership between Qatar Airways and PSG, creating an even more exciting experience for fans all over the world.
Global fans will be able to fly with Qatar Airways, the seven-time World’s Best Airline, to see the 11-time French Champions compete at Parc des Princes Stadium in Paris.
Qatar Airways Holidays is offering flexible packages to attend the matches and witness some of the greatest footballing moments, including the following additional perks including match tickets, flights, accommodation, and more. For more details, visit: https://www.qatarairways.com/en-qa/sponsorship/paris-saint-germain.html
Qatar Airways remains committed to supporting sports globally, helping fans travel to their favourite events around the world.

QATAR

SPECIAL COLORS - Qatar Airways Expo 2023 Doha Livery Revealed in Style

A330-300 Expo 2023 Doha aircraft touches down in Doha Qatar Airways embodies commitment to sustainability and innovation with Expo-themed livery and enhanced in-flight experiences
Attending the reveal were Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, H.E. Mr. Akbar Al Baker; President of Ashghal, H.E. Dr. Engr. Saad Ahmed Al Mohannadi; Chief Operating Officer at Hamad International Airport, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al Meer; and Secretary-General of Horticultural Expo 2023 Doha, Engr. Mohamed Ali al-Khouri

Doha, Qatar – Qatar Airways is proud to welcome the new Expo 2023 Doha livery to its fleet and commemorate its role as the Official Strategic Partner for the landmark event. The unveiling represents a celebration of Qatar Airways and Hamad International Airport’s (HIA) readiness to host a global gathering focused on environmental awareness, strengthening their positions as strategic partners in the journey towards a sustainable future.
The aircraft, an A330-300 adorned with the Expo 2023 Doha livery, was unveiled by Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, at Hamad International Airport.
The event was attended by high-profile dignitaries, including President of Ashghal, H.E. Dr. Engr. Saad Ahmed Al Mohannadi; Chief Operating Officer at Hamad International Airport, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al Meer; Secretary-General of Horticultural Expo 2023 Doha, Engr. Mohamed Ali al-Khouri; in addition to the senior management of Qatar Airways and the Expo team.
Minister of Municipality, His Excellency Mr. Abdulla bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie, added: “Expo 2023 Doha is a beacon of Qatar's commitment to sustainable development and environmental progress. With esteemed partners like Qatar Airways, we are poised to deliver an Expo experience that resonates globally and inspires positive change.”
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “We welcome all countries to Expo 2023 Doha, which represents a continuation of our inspiring journey filled with innovation, collaboration, and pioneering solutions. The arrival of the Expo 2023 Doha aircraft at Hamad International Airport symbolises our commitment to fostering a sustainable and innovative future as enshrined in Qatar’s national vision.”
Secretary-General of Expo 2023 Doha, Engr. Mohammed Ali Al Khouri, stated: “Qatar Airways has consistently demonstrated its commitment to sustainability through its various global initiatives. As a testament to this commitment, we are honoured to take part of the unveiling of our Expo 2023 Doha livery. This milestone not only represents a celebration of our joint efforts but also serves as a powerful symbol of our ongoing environmental stewardship in the region.”
As part of its substantial contribution to Expo 2023, Qatar Airways will feature the “Qatar Airways Garden,” an impressive pavilion highlighting engaging activations designed to illustrate the Expo’s theme of "Green Desert, Better Environment".
Qatar Airways will also offer an enriched in-flight experience from 11 October 2023, featuring curated beverages and an exclusive à la carte menu spotlighting Qatari farm-sourced ingredients, along with Expo-themed in-flight entertainment. This includes a dedicated Expo channel offering over 30 gardening-related shows, ensuring a memorable horticultural experience in-flight.
Expo 2023 Doha, will run from October 2023 to March 2024 at the scenic Al Bidda Park, and is anticipated to draw around three million international visitors. Overlooking the Arabian Gulf, the six-month event will feature a diverse array of experiences including beautiful gardens, enlightening talks, art, cuisine, and a special emphasis on innovative approaches to combat desertification.

 QATAR

SPECIAL COLORS - Qatar Airways, the Official Global Airline Partner of Formula 1® Unveils New Livery Ahead of FORMULA 1® QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2023

Qatar Airways revs up excitement with unveiling of new Formula 1® livery ahead of the FORMULA 1® QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2023

Celebrate the unmatched motorsport experience with Qatar Airways Holidays’ Ultimate F1® Fan Packages which include access to the Geneva International Motor Show in Qatar

DOHA, Qatar – As the Official Global Airline Partner of Formula 1®, Qatar Airways is delighted to announce its title sponsorship of the highly anticipated FORMULA 1® QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2023 which will be held from 6-8 October at Lusail International Circuit. To rev up the excitement and reflect its commitment to motorsport enthusiasts worldwide, the airline is thrilled to unveil its new Formula 1® livery painted on a specially branded Boeing 777 aircraft.

Qatar Airways’ leisure arm, Qatar Airways Holidays, is offering enthusiasts a unique experience at F1® races throughout the season, as well as the FORMULA 1® QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2023 through its exclusive Ultimate F1® Fan Package. The travel packages are designed to provide a seamless motorsport experience, with the inclusion of return flights, hotel accommodation, a wide range of passes including F1® Paddock Club and Grandstand race tickets, and much more.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive and Chairman of Qatar Tourism, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “The months of October and November will deliver a collection of world-class automotive activities dedicated to fans around the world. As the Official Global Airline Partner of Formula 1, we are honoured to host international visitors to Qatar; once again delivering our unparalleled hospitality and bringing the world closer together through sport.”

Mr. Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation and Lusail International Circuit, said: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank Qatar Airways, our Official Sponsor, for their support. The partnership between Lusail International Circuit and Qatar Airways will play a pivotal role in bringing together global FORMULA 1® fans in Qatar. Our new state-of-the-art track will ensure we deliver a seamless and unforgettable experience for local, regional, and international spectators. We look forward to welcoming F1 fans from all over the globe."

From 20 September - 10 October on select flights, Qatar Airways passengers can enjoy delicacies inspired by the airline’s partnership with Formula 1®. These branded menus reflect F1® themed desserts in Business and Economy Class, ensuring passengers’ taste buds experience an array of exciting flavours.

The Ultimate F1® Fan Package offers unforgettable experiences of Pit Lane walks, a guided track tour, and special events with select F1® drivers, bringing motorsport lovers close to the high-octane action. The unique package also provides fans with complimentary access to the renowned Geneva International Motor Show taking place for the first time in Qatar from 5-14 October, adding an extra touch of glamour to this unforgettable event. To secure these one-of-a-kind packages, fans can visit: qatarairways.com/F1.

Qatar Airways is committed to supporting sports globally, helping fans travel to their favourite events around the world. The national carrier of the State of Qatar is the Official Airline of Formula 1®, Concacaf, Paris-Saint Germain, the IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 Triathlon Series, the United Rugby Championship (URC) and European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR), and multiple other disciplines including Australian football, basketball, cricket, equestrian, motor racing, squash, and tennis.

 

NEW AIRCRAFT - Qatar Airways takes up the leases of nine Boeing 737-8 MAX

Qatar Airways Boeing 737-8 MAX 8 A7-BSC (msn 43329)
Photo: Brian Worthington

NEW AIRLINE - Japan Airlines’ (JAL) low-cost subsidiary, Spring Japan, will operate Japan-based Yamato Transport’s three upcoming A321-200P2Fs starting in 2024, a departure from original plans for fellow JAL subsidiary Jetstar Japan to operate the freighters on a CMI basis for the Japanese delivery company.

Radim Koblížka
QATAR AIRWAYS / A321-200 / A7-AID

The aircraft no longer carries the colors of Qatar Airways, the aircraft is ready for conversion, will eventually fly with Yamato Transport and already carries some of the colo

 

H. E. Sheikha Al Mayassa Bint Hamad Al Thani Officially Opened Maradona Fanfest sponsored by Qatar Executive and Qatar Airways

Photos: Qatar Airways
 

Qatar Airways / B787-9 Dreamliner / A7-BHE - FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 by flying its logo across QR network.

Abdurahman N.