Qatar Airways might reach 255 routes with aircraft deliveries. Qatar Airways’ chief executive said Monday that the Gulf airline might increase its destinations to more than 255 from 170 under aggressive development plans, but it needs more planes.
At a press conference at the Arabian Travel Market conference in Dubai, Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker said the airline planned to expand to 190 routes but could add more.
“We could add maybe 85 or 90 destinations depending on the aircraft deliveries,” Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker told reporters.
He said the airline anticipates Boeing (BA.N) and Airbus (AIR.PA) deliveries shortly. However, he added delivery delays forced the airline to make cautious development plans.
Airbus revived Qatar Airways’ 73-aircraft deal in March after a major legal fight over A350 surface damage.
Al Baker intends to obtain the aircraft in the “not too distant future” when the airline and planemaker resolve in February.
Al Baker underlined Qatar Airways’ Boeing 787 and 777X delays. He cited “unnecessary” FAA concerns for 787 delays.
Boeing delayed 787 deliveries in February to investigate an FAA-related fuselage component.
Al Baker was eager to collaborate with Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national airline, which would compete with Qatar Airways.
“Everyone’s business… He pledged support. He told reporters. Qatar Airways may offer codeshares or technical support.
Al Baker told reporters that Qatar Airways’ load factors continue in the “high 80s” despite increased energy prices.
In 2022, the airline spent $2.4 billion more on fuel than projected. However, it warned that the energy price cushion is “not unlimited.”
Al Baker said the airline was “fighting with oil companies” to raise SAF output to cut prices.
The airline aims to use the fuel to reduce its carbon impact alone or with regular gasoline.
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