A Qatar Airways aircraft flying in the sky. Credit: Fixion/dreamstime.com/©Airbus S.A.S.

Qatar Airways has replaced a previous Airbus A320neo order with a $6.35bn order to purchase 50 A321neo aircraft with Airbus Cabin Flex configuration (ACF).

The original Airbus A320neo order was placed in 2011.

Deliveries of the new aircraft are scheduled to begin by 2019.

Once completed, the A321neo aircraft are expected to help expand and improve Qatar Airways’ fleet and network.

“The A321neo ACF is a world-class choice for our passengers and for our business.”

Qatar Airways Group chief executive Akbar Al Baker said: “At a time when Qatar Airways is experiencing unprecedented growth and expansion, the need for efficient, reliable and modern aircraft has never been greater.

“To answer our need for growth and additional capacity, the A321neo ACF is a world-class choice for our passengers and for our business.”

The A321neo aircraft are part of Airbus’ A321 family of aircraft and are designed to accommodate up to 240 passengers each.

Equipped with advanced engines, aerodynamic advances, and cabin innovations, they are capable of initially operating at least 15% less fuel a seat and 20% by 2020.

The A321neo ACF version features improved doors and fuselage to help airlines make optimise cabin space and other benefits.

In September, Airbus secured an order from Cathay Pacific Airways to provide 32 A321neo single-aisle aircraft.