Strategic Focus Shifts to Larger Boeing Jets
The cancellation comes in the wake of Qatar Airways' major new order with Boeing—an eye-catching $96 billion deal covering 160 widebody aircraft, including 130 Boeing 787s and 30 next-generation 777Xs. This large-scale agreement reflects the airline’s emphasis on long-haul expansion and fleet modernization.
Al-Meer clarified that the new Boeing order is not part of a piecemeal approach. "We are not like other airlines where we split our orders 20 today, 20 next year,” he said. “We are basing our order on a very solid strategy.” While this may indicate a strong near-term focus on Boeing for long-haul routes, it does not signal an exclusive commitment.
MAX 10 Order Abandoned After Deliberation
Speculation about the future of the MAX 10 order began circulating as early as December. Initial reports suggested that Qatar Airways might downgrade to the smaller MAX 8 model. However, the airline ultimately opted for a full cancellation. The 25 aircraft were originally ordered at the 2022 Farnborough Air Show during a period of tension with Airbus, stemming from a dispute over surface issues on A350 jets.
At the time, Boeing had positioned the MAX 10 as ideal for Qatar Airways’ regional network. Yet, Al-Meer’s recent comments confirm the aircraft no longer fits the airline’s evolving operational requirements.
Rebuilding Bridges: Qatar and Airbus Reconcile
The decision to move away from the MAX 10 aligns with Qatar Airways' broader pivot back to Airbus for its narrowbody needs. This marks a turnaround from the earlier rift between the two aviation giants. In 2021, Qatar Airways filed a lawsuit against Airbus, citing paint degradation issues on its A350s, which led to multiple aircraft being grounded. The fallout resulted in Airbus canceling Qatar’s order for 50 A321neos and removing 23 A350s from its orderbook.
However, the two parties reached a settlement in early 2023, putting an end to the protracted legal dispute. A joint statement described the resolution as “amicable and mutually agreeable,” with both companies committing to repair work and the resumption of aircraft deliveries.
Al-Meer later emphasized the improvement in relations, stating, “We have a very good relationship with Airbus,” during a media roundtable at the Farnborough Air Show in 2023.
Airbus Reclaims Narrowbody Exclusivity
With the cancellation of the 737 MAX 10s, Airbus now stands as Qatar Airways’ sole provider for narrowbody aircraft. Data from ch-aviation indicates the airline currently holds outstanding orders for 50 Airbus A321neos, with deliveries set to begin next year.
Al-Meer affirmed that Airbus remains a key partner, especially for short- and medium-haul routes: “Our narrowbody [fleet] will continue to be Airbus. So our whole narrowbody fleet will be basically operated by Airbus.”
He also hinted that Airbus could soon receive additional orders, including possibly for more A350-1000s, with a potential announcement at the Paris Air Show this summer.
Conclusion: A Balanced but Evolving Fleet Strategy
Despite Qatar Airways’ current focus on executing its Boeing widebody deal, the airline continues to maintain a dual-source strategy. The move away from the 737 MAX 10 appears to reflect a reassessment of network needs more than a shift in loyalty. Airbus remains firmly in the picture, particularly for narrowbody and medium-haul operations.
As Qatar Airways continues to rebuild and expand post-pandemic, its fleet decisions suggest a strategic approach that weighs performance, relationships, and long-term growth rather than short-term competition between manufacturers.