Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker has called on aircraft manufacturers Boeing and Airbus to step up efforts to improve the reliability of their planes, warning that persistent technical problems and delivery delays are placing heavy strain on airlines worldwide.
Speaking at a global aviation summit, Al Baker highlighted how ongoing setbacks in aircraft production and maintenance have left carriers grappling with higher costs and disrupted schedules at a time when passenger demand is soaring. He stressed that airlines need aircraft that are both dependable and delivered on time to meet the industry’s growing needs.
Qatar Airways has previously been outspoken in its disputes with manufacturers. The airline famously clashed with Airbus over surface quality issues on the A350, grounding part of its fleet before the two parties reached a settlement. The latest comments suggest that frustrations over performance and delivery standards remain widespread among airlines.
Industry analysts note that with international travel reaching record highs, operational reliability has never been more critical. Airlines already battling tight margins are facing additional pressure when aircraft are grounded longer than expected or arrive months behind schedule.
Al Baker’s remarks echo the concerns of several other airline executives who have privately voiced dissatisfaction with both Airbus and Boeing. His intervention is seen as a public push for greater accountability from the world’s two biggest aircraft manufacturers.
Shopeju Olateju
NaijaTravels News