Airline To Be First In The Middle East To Operate The 787

The first of 30 787s ordered by Doha-based Qatar Airways has been delivered to the carrier. The airplane is also the first to be delivered to an airline in the Middle East.

"We expect (the 787) will establish new benchmarks for reliability and comfort, when combined with Qatar Airways' signature passenger experience," said Akbar Al Baker, Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Airways. "Our decision to invest in this game-changing airplane, which represents the future of air travel, reflects our firm belief in its unrivaled capabilities and the value it will add to our fleet and network expansion plans." The airline has announced that it will deploy the Dreamliner on services to Dubai, London Heathrow, Delhi and Zurich, with others planned as additional 787s join the fleet.

"There is no doubt in my mind that Qatar Airways is one of the most remarkable airline success stories of our time and it is only fitting that it has taken delivery of the most technologically advanced jetliner of our time," said Ray Conner, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 787, with its unmatched fuel efficiency and passenger comfort, is certain to enable Qatar Airways' plans to continue to deliver on its promise of quality and profitability. Today's delivery marks the beginning of a new chapter in Boeing's partnership with Qatar Airways, which is based on a mutual commitment to excellence."  

In addition to providing airlines with unprecedented fuel economy and low operating costs, the 787 features a host of new technologies that greatly enhance the passenger experience. Qatar Airways' customers will also experience cabin environment improvements such as improved lighting, bigger windows, larger overhead bins, lower cabin altitude and enhanced ventilation systems, among other features. The airline's 787 cabins are configured with 22 seats in Business Class and 232 in Economy.

(Artist's rendering image provided by Boeing)

FMI: www.boeing.com