Qatar Airways orders nine 777-300ERs

Qatar Airways announced (17-Jun-2013) an order for nine additional Boeing 777-300ERs, worth USD2.8 billion at list prices. The agreement includes two firm orders previously attributed to an unidentified customer and commitments for seven more 777-300ERs. The aircraft will be powered by GE90-115B engines, with the engine order worth more than USD600 million at list prices. Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker said: "With its reliability, economics and range capability, the 777 will continue to play a key role in enabling Qatar Airways to operate more direct non-stop flights from our hub in Doha to destinations in many markets including Australasia and the United States. We have already shown a desire to open up new destinations in the US and the Boeing 777 will further feature in our expansion plans in this part of the world, in addition to increasing frequency to other destinations." Boeing Commercial Airplanes president and CEO Ray Conner said: "It is a great honour to have Qatar Airways operate the 777 as its long-haul flagship aircraft. The 777's unrivalled economics and customer-preferred passenger experience make it a cornerstone of Qatar Airways' success." GE Aviation VP and GM of global sales & marketing Kevin McAllister said: "This order and commitment for nine GE90-115B-powered Boeing 777-300ERs demonstrates the continued customer interest in this extremely successful aircraft-engine combination. Qatar Airways is a significant customer for GE Aviation, and we are honored to provide engines to help the airline with its route expansion plans." [more - original PR - Qatar Airways] [more - original PR - Boeing] [more - original PR - GE Aviation]