At a time when American and European airlines are facing financial difficulties, airlines from the Middle East have become more aggressive. Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker has agreed to discuss with FCA journalists the airline�s positioning vs its competitors and how the region�s airlines are faring. Both Qatar and Emirates have been expanding aggressively, but according to experts the region�s shortages in skilled labour, especially pilots, and a potential moderation in market conditions could make the realisation of growth plans by the airlines more difficult. Qatar Airways was re-launched in 1997 and has since become one of the world�s fastest growing airlines. In June 2003, it signed a US$5.1 billion agreement with Airbus for an additional 34 aircraft, which will allow it to fly with a fleet of 52 Airbus aircraft by the end of 2008. It has also signed a US$1.2 billion deal for two A380 �super jumbos� which will become the flagships of its fleet when they are delivered in early 2009.