Dubai: Despite the global economic downturn,
orders worth a whopping USD 63.3 billion were generated at the
just concluded Dubai Airshow, organisers said.
The orders for aircraft, maintenance services and flight
training programmes at the 12th edition of the air show, which
concluded yesterday, are much higher than the last edition in
2009 which recorded orders worth USD 14 billion.
This years edition also saw the record 56,548 people
visiting the show, making it the biggest as well as the most
colorful yet.
Alison Weller, Managing Director of airshow organiser F&E
Aerospace, said: "We promised a Dubai Airshow that would be
bigger and better than ever and we did not disappoint. The
past week has been notable for its buoyant crowds, spectacular
aerial displays and astonishing order announcements. As the
show comes to an end, it will be time to take stock of the
successes and the challenges, in preparation for Dubai Air show
2013 at Dubai World Central!"
In a dramatic turn of events, Qatar Airways signed an
order for 50 A320neo aircraft and five A380 double-decker
aircraft, with a total list price of USD 6.4 billion. This
happened after the Doha-based airline resolved its earlier
differences with Airbus.
The Doha-based carrier, which has taken options on 30
additional A320 neos, plus three additional A380s, will be the
A320neo launch customer.
"The A320neo promises to be a great aircraft which is why
we have chosen it to form the backbone of our future single
aisle expansion," said Akbar Al Baker, CEO of Qatar Airways.
PTI
First Published: Friday, November 18, 2011, 14:07