Qatar Airways Reevaluates Boeing 737-10 Order Amid Fleet Plans

Qatar Airways is reportedly reconsidering its order for 25 Boeing 737-10 jets, initially placed in mid-2022 during a high-profile dispute with Airbus over A350 aircraft paint issues. The airline’s relationship with Airbus has since improved, potentially reducing the need for the 737 MAX variant. The 737-10 is also facing certification delays, with entry into service expected no earlier than late 2025.

According to sources, Qatar Airways may exchange the 737-10 order for 737-8 jets, which could be allocated to its strategic partners, RwandAir and Virgin Australia. Qatar Airways holds a 49% stake in RwandAir and is seeking a 25% stake in Virgin Australia, both of which currently operate 737-8s.

The original order for 737-10s was placed during Qatar Airways’ dispute with Airbus, which saw the cancellation of an order for 50 A321-200N and 23 A350-900 aircraft. Following a settlement, these orders were reinstated.

Qatar Airways currently operates a predominantly widebody fleet and has 175 aircraft on order, including 50 A321-200Ns, 18 A350-1000s, 60 777-9s, and 12 787-9s. Its narrowbody fleet is limited to 29 A320-200s and nine 737-8s. The 737-8s, inducted in 2023 after the Airbus agreement, are not used for Qatar Airways’ operations. Six are leased to IndiGo Airlines, while three remain parked.

This strategic reassessment reflects Qatar Airways’ evolving operational priorities and partnerships.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com