Gulfstream Aerospace (GLF, Savannah International) and Qatar Airways (QR, Doha Hamad International) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for firm orders and options for twenty Gulfstream G500 and G650ER business jets. The aircraft are destined for the Qatari carrier's VIP division, Qatar Executive (QQE, Doha International).

“Qatar Executive has been on an accelerated growth path since its inception and is held to an exceptional standard of quality that is widely known by our global clientele," Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker, said. "In order to keep pace with the future strategic growth plans of our private jet division, the fleet is being expanded with aircraft that meet the needs of our guests, providing a wide range of options. Today's announcement of the Memorandum of Understanding for G650ERs and G500s signals a next step for Qatar Executive's relatively young and buoyant history."

The G500, set to make its first flight later next year, will link Doha Hamad International, Qatar, non-stop with London, Geneva and Paris at Mach 0.90 and is expected to enter service in 2018. The G650ER, an ultra-long-range aircraft, will connect with New York JFK at Mach 0.90 and Doha with Los Angeles International at Mach 0.85. Announced in May 2014, the G650ER recently received US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification.

Qatar Executive was established in 2009 offering global charter services onboard a wholly-owned fleet. Its service portfolio includes aircraft management, airliner charter, maintenance and FBO services.