Qatar Airways Considers Replacing Boeing 737-10 with Smaller Jets

Qatar Airways is reportedly considering removing the Boeing 737-10 model from its order list, citing that it no longer meets the airline's fleet requirements. The airline initially ordered 25 of the 737-10s but is now evaluating a shift to the smaller 737-8 models. If the change occurs, Qatar Airways plans to allocate these smaller aircraft to partners like RwandAir and Virgin Australia Holdings Ltd., which are already operating the 737-8 model.

This reassessment of fleet needs comes after Qatar Airways finalized its order for Boeing jets in mid-2022. At that time, the airline was embroiled in a complex legal dispute with Airbus SE, which had led to the cancellation of a 50-unit order for A321 narrowbody jets. The disagreement, initially focused on the A350 model, was ultimately resolved out of court, allowing Qatar Airways to reopen its A321 order. This resolution left Qatar Airways with extra Boeing narrowbody aircraft that it now deems unnecessary for its operations.

Currently, Qatar Airways has refrained from making an official statement on the matter. Similarly, a Boeing representative has stated that the company respects its customers' decisions regarding order adjustments.