Qatar Airways puts finishing touches on order for at least 100 Boeing widebodies - report
US President Donald Trump’s visit to the Middle East next week will set the stage for a massive order from Qatar Airways for at least 100 Boeing widebodies.
According to Bloomberg, the Doha-based carrier is putting the finishing touches on the deal, which will also include dozens of purchase options.
The order is expected to be dominated by the 787 Dreamliner, but will also include the 777X.
Qatar currently has 10 787s, 25 737 MAXs and 94 777Xs pending delivery. Its fleet also includes 51 Dreamliners and 64 first-generation 777s.
The tour will also include Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, and new deals could be announced. Riyadh Air, a new state-owned carrier set to enter service in 2025, is considering a second order for widebodies.
Emirates Airline, the largest customer for the 777X, could extend its contract, while low-cost subsidiary flydubai could expand its 737 MAX order.
Defense contracts
In addition to deals for commercial aircraft, Boeing could also benefit from an order for F-15EX fighter jets from Saudi Arabia, as well as advanced missiles.
The Trump administration has been pushing the Saudi monarchy to increase investment in the United States, as has the UAE. This time, the focus will be on Qatar, according to Bloomberg.
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