Qatar Airways bulks up freighter fleet
05 / 07 / 2012
QATAR Airways has signed an agreement to buy three 777 freighters.
The news comes as the airline takes delivery of its 25th 777. Qatar’s new orders include a further two 777-300ERs. Combined, the five new aircraft will set the airline back US$1.4 billion at list prices.
“The capacity of the 777 freighter is unrivalled and its economics make it an attractive addition to our fleet,” Akbar al-Baker, Qatar Airways’ chief executive officer, said.
Qatar Airways currently operates eight long-range 777-200LR, 15 777-300ERs and two long-range 777 freighters.
Boeing says the 777 fuel-efficient aircraft is 19 per cent lighter than its closest competitor and operating costs are 20 per cent lower per seat.
Qatar placed its first 777 order in 2007. The 777 will not be flying on Qatar’s new direct flights from Budapest (Hungary) to Doha (Qatar) however. Starting from 14 September the direct route using an A320 will be dropping the existing stop in Bucharest (Romania).