Bringing the Asian Games to the skies

Airbus has delivered the first in a series of seven Asian Games 2006-branded A330-300 aircraft to Qatar Airways.

The airline’s Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker unveiled the aircraft during a ceremony at Doha International Airport on September 2. Doha, the capital city of Qatar, will host the 15th Asian Games from 1 to 15 December 2006 and Qatar Airways is supporting the event as its "official airline".

Brightly painted in yellow and orange, the A330-300 features images inspired by two of the Games' 39 sports. One side of the aircraft's tail has been painted with the image of an athlete, the other with a cyclist. The event's motto - "Let the Spirit Move You" - is prominently displayed across both of the aircraft's engines.

Qatar is due to take delivery of its next Asian Games-themed A330-300 during September. The jet will feature the second Games-branded livery designed especially for the event: bright blue paintwork, with the Games mascot "Orry" displayed on both sides of the aircraft's tail.

Four A330s will be decked out in the yellow and orange livery, with the remaining three featuring the blue design. All seven aircraft are expected to be delivered by May 2006.