DOHA- Flag carrier Qatar Airways (QR) is set to become a launch customer for Boeing 777X, further solidifying Boeing’s partnership with Qatar and its flagship airline.
In an interview with The Peninsula, Kuljit Ghata-Aura, President of Boeing Middle East, Turkey, and Africa (META), emphasized the significance of Qatar as a key partner for Boeing, involved in various aspects of their business, including engagements with the airline, the Ministry of Defense, and notably, the Qatar Air Force (QAF).
Qatar Airways Boeing 777X Launch
Ghata-Aura highlighted the enduring partnership between Boeing and Qatar Airways, which began with the airline’s initial order in 2006.
He underlined the strength of the relationship, with Qatar Airways being the launch customer for some of Boeing’s most cutting-edge and recent products. For instance, in April of this year, Qatar Airways took delivery of its first 737-8 aircraft.
“We are delighted that Qatar Airways has selected us to be a part of their expansion strategy. They have approximately 120 Boeing aircraft in their fleet and placed orders for another 130. These orders include some of our most advanced and sophisticated aircraft,” Ghata-Aura stated.
“We were honored to receive orders for the 737-10 and the 787. Qatar Airways is also set to become a launch customer for the 777-9, part of the 777X series, as well as the 777-8 freighter.”
“These aircraft represent the pinnacle of aviation technology, offering exceptional fuel efficiency, reliability, and versatility. The 737-10, the largest member of the Max family, accommodates 230 passengers and boasts impressive emissions efficiency.”
It delivers unmatched economics per seat in the single-aisle category and can reach 99% of destinations within that class,” he further explained.
R&D Initiatives
Furthermore, Ghata-Aura revealed that Boeing’s collaboration with Qatar extends beyond traditional aviation and encompasses innovation and technology.
He highlighted Qatar’s focus on developing the education sector, particularly emphasizing research and development to foster an environment driven by innovation.
Boeing has established a longstanding partnership with the Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI), a member of the Qatar Foundation, with a focus on machine learning and data analysis.
Ghata-Aura emphasized the value of aircraft-generated data as a valuable resource for this partnership, which could be analyzed and utilized to benefit the aviation industry. Additionally, they have collaborated on an innovative product designed to detect foreign objects on airport runways.
In the academic sphere, Boeing collaborates closely with Qatar University on various aerospace projects, particularly those related to unmanned systems.
Ghata-Aura noted that Boeing, through its partner Injaz Al Arab, conducts several impactful programs aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, especially in STEM fields involving students.
“We’ve had the privilege of engaging with around 5,000 students through these programs. These initiatives are fantastic because they enable us to interact with student teams, witness their innovative ideas, and engage with Qatari youth in these valuable programs. These relationships are of paramount importance, and we are actively seeking ways to strengthen and expand them,” Ghata-Aura added.
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