Qatar's national airline Qatar Airways and Airbus have signed an amendment to convert its existing firm order for 20 A350-800's, 40 A350-900's and 20 A350-1000's to 43 A350-900's and 37 A350-1000's. Qatar Airways' total order for A350 XWB aircraft remains at 80 aircraft. “We have taken the time necessary to come to today's decision in favor of the larger A350 XWB models which we believe are best suited to our business model,” said Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways' CEO. “Qatar Airways has been involved in the development of the A350 XWB from the very early days. So we are truly delighted with their decision to grow their business with the two larger A350 XWB models,” said Fabrice Bregier, Airbus' President and CEO. “This decision by Qatar Airways not only confirms the market trend towards larger A350's but it also demonstrates the value of offering, as we do with the A350 XWB, a true family of aircraft from which our customers can select the models that best meet their individual requirements.” The A350 XWB is Airbus' all new family of mid-size wide body airliners. These highly efficient aircraft bring together the latest in aerodynamics, design and advanced technologies to provide up to 25 percent better fuel efficiency and operating costs compared to current aircraft in the same size category. Over 70 percent of the A350 XWB's weight-efficient airframe is made from advanced materials combining composites (53 percent), titanium and advanced aluminum alloys. The aircraft's innovative all-new Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) fuselage results in lower fuel burn as well as easier maintenance. The A350 XWB benefits from Airbus' high level of expertise in incorporating composite material into its aircraft. – SG
