DUBAI — The 25th 787 Boeing that Qatar Airways ordered has been flown from Seattle this week, announced CEO of Qatar Airways Akbar Al Baker in front of the new 787 Dreamliner 787 Boeing on the sidelines of the ongoing Dubai Airshow. At the unveiling ceremony with President and Chief Executive Officer Raymond Conner and US Ambassador to the State of Qatar Dana Smith, Al Baker said "being the second largest operator of the 787, we are very delighted of the performance of the aircraft with low cabin altitude, fuel efficient engines and a product that is first class." In his speech, Ray Conner said "we have a customer and a friendship with Qatar Airways. To be with one of the great airlines in the world is one of our privileges." Qatar Airways participated in the Dubai Airshow that displays over 1,100 regional and international exhibitors, showcasing the latest updates and innovations in the aviation industry. Aviation growth in the Middle East has risen in the past decade at 6.0% growth, above the 4.6% world average, Airbus represented by CEO John Leahy and head of marketing Bob Lange said at a press conference at the airshow. The demand in the region has grown extensively where the Middle East serves as a crossroads where travel in and out of the region has quadrupled in the last 10 years. In addition, long-haul flights has been increasing at 11 percent in the last two decades. Qatar Airways has expanded its destinations recently in the region. In Saudi Arabia, its latest addition is Abha since September where it flies four times weekly. Destinations in Saudi Arabia include Dammam, Jeddah, Riyadh, Medina, and Taif. Al Hofuf was added last year in 2014. Since 1997, Qatar Airways proved to be one of the fastest growing airlines and operating one of the youngest fleets in the world. It currently has more than 330 new aircraft worth more than $70 billion pending delivery over the next few years. Winning the title of Airline of the year 2015 in the Skytrax World Airlines Award for the third time, Qatar Airways has exhibited exceptional standards of service in addition to an expansion of double digit growth year on year. The new 787 Dreamliner purchased from Boeing offers new technologies that serve comfort and ease to the passenger flying long distances. Its advanced technology results in increased efficiency and improves the flying experience due to its cleaner air quality, cabin altitude, spacious cabin, among other specs. Qatar Airways was the first to purchase the A350 XWB that was also displayed at the Dubai Airshow. Known for its state-of-the-art technology and luxurious quality, the new Airbus 2-class aircraft has a unique combination of comfort, innovation, and lowest seat mile cost in its class. Its advanced flight control system offers passengers a smooth flight and minimal turbulence. In addition, its wider seats in both Business and Economy classes, low engine noise level, advanced air conditioning technology offer a comfortable flying experience. As long haul traffic is growing and is expected to have an effect on the size and type of aircraft selected by airlines in the coming years, the average aircraft size is increasing. The A380 is the largest civil aircraft in history and seats a total of 517 passengers on the upper deck and main deck. Catering to the well-being of the long-haul flight passenger, the Qatar Airways A380 combines both innovative design and comfort in its interior, air quality, entertainment, overall luxury and award-winning hospitality. Qatar Airways currently has 152 destinations in its global network and will open 7 new destinations in the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom and the UAE by 2016. Since 1997, Qatar Airways has aimed to transform itself in an award-winning carrier and one of the leading airlines in the world.
