Relations between Qatar Airways and Airbus are entering a normalization phase following the 2022 dispute, as new CEO Hamad Al-Khater visited Airbus headquarters in Toulouse, signaling a renewed and strengthened strategic partnership.
Al-Khater emphasized that Airbus is not only a critical supplier but also a long-term business partner. Both sides are aiming to rebuild mutual trust and deepen cooperation across all areas.
Tensions between the two companies began in 2022 when Qatar Airways reported paint degradation and surface issues on its Airbus A350 fleet. The airline argued that the issue could pose potential safety risks related to the fuel tank and certain structural components, grounding several A350 aircraft.
Airbus, backed by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), maintained that the matter did not constitute a safety threat and posed no structural risk. The dispute escalated into legal proceedings, during which Airbus canceled Qatar Airways’ order for 50 Airbus A321neo aircraft.
The parties later reached a settlement, withdrew mutual claims, and restructured orders. Currently, roughly half of Qatar Airways’ fleet consists of Airbus aircraft, and the airline has more than 60 Airbus jets on order. These include the reinstated A321neo and its long-range variant, the Airbus A321LR. Deliveries of the Airbus A350-1000 are also expected to continue to support the carrier’s long-haul expansion.
Qatar Airways plans to expand its fleet to around 400 aircraft by 2040, with the renewed partnership with Airbus expected to play a key role in achieving these growth ambitions.
