Qatar Executive showcased its new G500 at the recent Farnborough International Airshow. The aircraft will enter service later this year as part of an October 2014 agreement between Qatar Executive and Gulfstream. The agreement was subsequently extended in May 2015 to include up to 30 aircraft including the G600.

Qatar Airways Group chief executive Akbar Al Baker comments: "We are tremendously excited to be unveiling our first Gulfstream G500. With its many advanced features, this ultra-modern aircraft will enable us to offer our global clientele unprecedented levels of service. The G500 also demonstrates our commitment to expanding our fleet, in line with our accelerated growth strategy."

The G500 is powered by PW800 engines, optimised for high altitude, fast and long range jets. The aircraft is capable of flying non-stop from Istanbul to Cape Town or from London to Los Angeles. Passengers will be able to utilise satcom, high speed internet and Gulfstream's cabin management system.

Gulfstream president Mark Burns adds: "We are excited to join Qatar Executive as it showcases its first G500 at Farnborough. This aircraft ushers in a new standard of business jet travel for passengers and pilots, and we look forward to continuing our partnership."

Qatar Executive expects to receive eight of the 25 aircraft on order between now and the end of 2019. It currently operates a fleet of 13 Gulfstream and Bombardier jets, comprising five Gulfstream G650ERs, three Bombardier Challenger 605s, four Global 5000s and one Global XRS.

In May 2018, the company took delivery of its fifth Gulfstream G650ER aircraft, becoming the world's largest owner-operator of the type. It plans to open offices in Moscow and Shanghai in the coming months.

Qatar Airways took a minority stake in California-headquartered JetSuite in April this year.