In a bid to gain larger share in one of the world's biggest markets, Qatar Airways Ltd. may order 100 new jetliners in 2017. The Gulf-based carrier also plans to announce a couple of new routes in England, Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said. 

In a media interaction in London, Al Baker said that Qatar Airways is confident about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aviation policies that might permit 100 per cent foreign ownership of a domestic airline. 

Confirming the speculations about Qatar Airways launching a new airline in India, the CEO said, "It could happen this year". 

Last June, liberalising the FDI regulations, the Government allowed foreign investors -- barring overseas airlines -- to own up to 100 per cent stake in local carriers. At present, foreign airlines are allowed to invest only up to 49 per cent in domestic carriers.

Qatar Airways is British Airways-owner IAG's biggest shareholder. It also has its stakes in South America's biggest carrier, Latam Airlines Group SA and Italy's second-largest airline, Meridiana Fly SpA.

The Gulf carrier has been trying to expand its presence in India but its growth has been limited because of limitation of traffic right.