Al Baker said at a press event in Doha, Qatar, that the problems surrounding the new aircraft remain unresolved. Airbus did not confirm the specifics of the case and is only due to publish its updated orders and deliveries report next Tuesday, but said it is working with Qatar Airways to resolve any issues. A team of Airbus representatives is understood to be in Doha for negotiations.
Qatar Airways originally ordered 50 A320neo-family aircraft, including 34 A320neos and 16 A321neos. It cancelled an order for one A320neo earlier this year in protest of delivery delays. That move is reflected in the July version of Airbus’s official order backlog. The airline refused to take the aircraft before hardware and software fixes were installed to the Pratt & Whitney PW1100G engines, to eliminate the requirement for extended engine cooling ahead of start-up.
Several airlines have continued to take A320neos; Lufthansa received the first aircraft with upgraded, new-standard engines in July.
Al Baker also continues to complain about the late A350 deliveries, which are hampering the planned opening of new routes. Qatar Airways has so far only received three A350s in 2016, five fewer than should have been delivered. In total, Qatar Airways currently has a fleet of ten A350s.
Delays continue to affect essentially all A350 customers. Thai Airways earlier this week took its first aircraft, which was due in June. Airbus has so far handed over 27 A350s in the first eight months of the year. The airframer’s own target is to deliver more than 50 in 2016.
In spite of the delays, Al Baker said Qatar Airways is close to deciding another major aircraft order. He said the deal would be “large” and come “soon.” He did not specify which types or manufacturer he is considering. The carrier has outstanding orders for four A380s; 42 A350-900s; 37 A350-1000s; 16 A321neos; and 33 A320neos—a number that still includes the two aircraft Al Baker said he cancelled.
On the Boeing side, the airline has placed firm orders for 60 777X aircraft. The airline has taken all 34 777-300ERs and 30 787-8s it bought.