Qatar Airways has become the first airline customer for the Airbus A319CJ Corporate Jetliner, placing a firm order for one aircraft and taking an option on another. The carrier plans to use the ACJ on a mix of private charters and scheduled services from its base in Doha, Qatar, to destinations such as London and Singapore. The aircraft will be powered by International Aero Engines V2527 engines. It will be configured with 36 first-class sleeperette seats. "Qatar Airways' selection of the ACJ opens up a new market for the aircraft, as well as building our partnership with a valued customer," said Airbus Industrie CEO Noel Forgeard. Qatar is already an operator of Airbus aircraft, including the A320 family from which the ACJ is derived. The ACJ differs from the usual A319 in having extra fuel tanks for additional range, a higher cruise altitude, plus airstairs and a new-generation flight management system.