All-Airbus operator Qatar Airways says it could have a requirement for the stretched version of the Boeing 7E7, but has less interest in the baseline -8 model.
The rapidly expanding Doha-based carrier is mid-way through a fleet-expansion programme with Airbus A321s and A330s, and has two A340-600s on order for 2006 and two A380s due in 2009.
Further expansion is expected to be confirmed next year through the conversion of options, and the 260-seat 7E7-9 stretch could figure in its long-term plans, says chief executive Akbar Al Baker: "We're looking at the 7E7 with interest, but the -9 with greater interest."
Qatar's expansion will see one-stop services to Melbourne and New York begin next year, with the flights to be direct once its A340-600s arrive in 2006. The airline recently received the first of two Bombardier Global Expresses, which was at the show. These are being operated in a 13- seat configuration primarily for the Qatari royal family's Amiri Flight, but are also offered for VIP charters, and will be joined by a Challenger 300 in March, with a second aircraft on option.
Meanwhile, Qatar's cargo division has seen 52% growth this year and the Qatar Airways group recorded its first profit last year, after main revenue earner Qatar Airways broke even in its fiscal year to the end of March 2004.
Source: Flight International
