Qatar Airways Orders 24 Airbus; Selects IAE’s V2500 SelectOne Engines

Qatar Airways, has signed a firm contract for 24 Airbus A320 Family aircraft. The agreement includes the firming up of a contract for four A321 aircraft announced at the Farnborough Air show in July 2008.

The airline has selected IAE’s V2500 SelectOne engines for the twenty A320s and four A321s with the business valued at more than US$700 million at list prices.

The new aircraft, configured with a two-class cabin, will be deployed to enhance and expand services on regional, Eastern European and south west Asia services.

Deliveries of the new aircraft are due to begin in November 2009, running through to the end of 2012.

Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said, “The additional Airbus A320s and A321s give Qatar Airways a firm footing in the rapid development and expansion of our regional network. Qatar Airways is determined to grow with the world’s best aircraft at the heart of a modern and fuel efficient fleet, and this A320 Family order will ensure that our narrow-body fleet is the youngest and best equipped in the region.”

Qatar Airways currently operates a modern fleet of 68 Airbus and Boeing aircraft to 82 key business and leisure destinations across Europe, Middle East, Africa, South Asia, Far East and North America.

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