Qatar Airways looks forward to first Dreamliner delivery in June 2012

Airline CEO Akbar Al Baker confirmed the news to the national newspaper onboard the Dreamliner's demonstration flight in Doha at the weekend.  Boeing's 787 Dreamliner was in Doha on a three-day visit, as part of the global 'Dream Tour' coinciding with Qatar's National Day celebrations.

Gulf Times reported that Al Baker confirmed that the airline has placed firm orders for 30 Dreamliners for $6 billion, with an option for 30 more.  The delivery of all 30 Dreamliners will take place over a four-year period, he said.

“Also most probably, I think we will be the first airliner to operate a 787 into Europe. We are more aggressive than our competition when it comes to deploying new products, and of course, new aircraft into our fleet.

“This is a big pride for us to showcase a Boeing 787 Dreamliner on our national day. Boeing did a lot of effort to bring this aircraft to Qatar on this very important day,” said Al Baker.