A350 first delivery was delayed “to do touchups”.

Interesting opinion article by Karen Walker concerning the cause of the “awkward and last-minute handover delay in December with no reason given” of the 1^st delivery of the A350.

Source: Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways Group CEO Akbar Al Baker is a notoriously hard man to please. As head of the launch customer airline for the Airbus A350 XWB, he has challenged the manufacturer and its engine supplier, Rolls-Royce.

Source: Qatar Airways

During the official reception ceremony of the A350 in Doha, Akbar was in good spirits, praising Airbus and Rolls-Royce for walking “hand-in-hand” with their customer throughout the development program. The result, he noted, was an aircraft that is “a magnificent masterpiece” that represents “the pinnacle” of Qatar Airways’ achievements so far.

Source: Qatar Airways

Even so, the straight-talking CEO couldn’t resist an opening jab during the press conference in Doha, with the brand-new aircraft waiting outside for dozens of international media to get a first glimpse of its cabins.

Taking his seat on the stage, and with Airbus EVP head of programs Didier Evrard and Rolls-Royce president, large civil engines, Eric Schulz seated either side, Al Baker quipped: “Any of you who did not apply your eyeliner or lipstick correctly, you can learn from Airbus how to do touchups.”

Whatever “touchups” Al Baker was referring to was not explained. But he seems pleased with the cosmetic work – noting in particular that the A350’s sweeping, curved wing is “very beautiful”. Indeed, it is.

Based on the article “Qatar Airways CEO offers tips on eyeliner and lipstick” published in ATW.