It looks like the airline is about to place a big order. Some might say that the carrier is doing some revenge shopping because of the dispute with the manufacturer.
According to a report, Qatar Airways is going to be the launch customer for the new Boeing plane. The airline will place a firm order for 15 of these jets, with purchase options for 50 more. It is believed that an announcement will coincide with the meeting between US President Joe Biden and the Emir of Qatar.
During the Pandemic, cargo has become an important focus for airlines, and the fleet consists of 26 Boeing 777Fs, plus two Boeing 747-8Fs.
As Boeing hasn't yet revealed much about what to expect from that plane, it's important that Qatar Airways become the launch customer.
The passenger version of the 777X, which has been delayed several times, is expected to enter service in late 2023. I wonder when the jets could enter service. Once the passenger version of the plane is approved and in service, there aren't that many changes needed to get the freighter version flying.
Up to 60 of the passenger version of the Boeing 777Xs are on order from Qatar Airways.
The timing is interesting. Next generation wide body freighters are being launched by both Boeing and Airbus, with Boeing working on a 777X and Airbus working on an A350.
The order from Qatar Airways seems to be moving quickly, and that is likely not a coincidence. There is a dispute between the airlines. The airline and aircraft manufacturer are arguing over the condition of the A350s. The damage to the aircraft's fuselage is being claimed by both airlines.
The battle between the two companies has gotten to the point where one of them terminated their contract.
I'm not suggesting that Qatar Airways is going on a shopping spree with Boeing just to spiteEADS, but I do think this likely impacted the timelines of an order. There isn't much thought to go into where the aircraft orders will be placed until this is resolved.
I'm most curious to know if Qatar Airways will also place a Boeing order. The carrier's narrow body plane order was canceled by the manufacturer, so it seems like the only other option is the MAX. Air Italy ended up liquidating and so the order was canceled, which was funny because back in the day, Qatar Airways ordered the MAXs for Air Italy.
It is being reported that the launch customer for the Boeing 777X will be Qatar Airways, with an order for up to 50 of these jets. This would be a huge win for Boeing, and also for the freighter program.
The ongoing spat with Airbus makes the decision of whether or not to use the A350 or the 777X much easier. The A321neo order was canceled, so I think the big question is whether or not Qatar Airways will place a narrow body passenger aircraft order.
What do you think about the alleged order from the airline?
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