Le Bourget – Qatar Airways today confirmed an order with International Aero Engines to power 24 new Airbus A320 family of aircraft. The airline has selected IAE’s V2500 SelectOne engines for twenty A320s and four A321s with the business valued at more than US$700 million at list prices.

The announcement by the Doha-based carrier was made during a packed press conference on the opening day of the Paris Air Show at Le Bourget today as the airline confirmed an order for 24 of the A320 family of aircraft.

Qatar Airways currently operates 19 A320 Family aircraft, and is the Middle East’s largest customer of this particular fleet. The new aircraft, configured with a two-class cabin, will be deployed to enhance and expand services on regional, European and southwest Asian services. Deliveries of the new aircraft are due to begin in November 2009, running through to the end of 2012.

Addressing media today, Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said: “We have a reputation for selecting only the best for our airline and we know from experience that the V2500 is the superior technology engine for the A320 family of aircraft.

“It is the most reliable option in the many harsh weather conditions we operate in. The V2500 SelectOne upgrade also offers us the lowest fuel burn and a corresponding reduction in emissions, which is vital as part of our Corporate Social Responsibility programme and commitment to a greener environment.”

International media attend a packed press conference hosted by Airbus and Qatar Airways on the opening day of the Paris Air Show at Le Bourget

IAE President and Chief Executive Officer Jon Beatty added: “We’re delighted that Qatar Airways has decided to place this order, which is firmly based on its experience with the V2500 engine. When we began the original process of designing the engine modifications that would eventually become the V2500 SelectOne, we started with what was important to our customers. Fuel burn has been, and continues to be, one of the largest operating expenses for an airline and the benefits we offer through this new build standard continue to drive our success.”

Source: Press Release (Qatar Airways & International Aero Engines)