1st B737MAX in Qatar Airways-livery

The first Boeing B737MAX in the livery of Qatar Airways has emerged from the paintshop on 17 February 2023. The aircraft in question is a B737-8 and currently registered N1780B (43342). It was ferried from Portland (OR) to Moses Lake (WA) on this date.

The fact that the aircraft is a MAX8 is a surprise as the airline only has a firm order for 25 B737-10s. A second B737-8 for the airline is also currently at Portland (OR) for painting.  According to our sources, Qatar Airways will lease a total of eight B737-8s, all originally destined for S7 Airlines from Russia. The MAXs will feature a configuration of eight seats in business clas and 168 in economy. The airline is planning to use the MAXs to retire its oldest A320s in the fleet.

Qatar Airways currently operates a narrowbody-fleet of 29 Airbus A320s. Earlier this month, the airline's order for 50 A321neos was reinstated after it settled its A350 paint-dispute with Airbus.

Photo by Quentin Larsen.