Qatar AirwaysSkytrax World Airline Awards – The airline that consistently wins the highest award won’t You can also find out more about us on our website. first-class berths on its next-generation long-haul aircraftAccording to Akbar Al Baker, Chief Executive Officer. Al Baker said the investment in the most luxurious seats doesn’t justify the returns, given that Qatar’s business-class The same rewards are available with both types of offers.

“Why should you invest in a subclass of an aeroplane that already gives you all the amenities that first class gives you,” Al Baker said in an exclusive interview of one hour in Istanbul on Saturday. “I don’t see the necessity.”

Diminishing the use of tobacco first class on long-haul routes isn’t without strategic risk. This move is both counter to Qatar’s five-star image and an industry trend that has seen airlines from Deutsche Lufthansa AG to Qantas Airways Air France and Ltd. Double down on Their high-end offering. Lufthansa CEO Carsten Spohr said that more travelers looking to relax are seeking a unique experience. The front of Carsten’s book is a great example. aircraft Have never felt more alive.

Al Baker’s future, however, lies in the business world classThen, you can say that Qatar Has branded its “Q-suite” product. That’s why there will be no first class on its future next-generation Boeing Co. 777X aircraft. After retiring all 10, these jets, the airline will have the biggest fleet of aircraft. its Airbus SE A380s still have 8 first class seats.

Over the years carriers have added premium economy seats between rows of business class and budget. First class It is a marketing gimmick, which corporate clients restrict to their top executives or attracts passengers who are willing to spend more. on Traveling is an experience of a lifetime.

Supply Chain

Aviation supply chains remain a major source of concern. Qatar AirwaysThe production of planes is being affected by shortages and backlogs.

Al Baker, speaking ahead of the annual International Air Transport Association gathering of some 300 airlines, said his airline is about 15 planes short of the 25 it expected to take over of this year — pointing to issues on The Boeing 787 and Airbus 321neo are the most recent jets.

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun warned that the aerospace sector could be facing a half-decade of disruptions to its most important industries. aircraft deliveries.

“What is happening is a vicious circle and this is the industry’s biggest challenge,” Al Baker. “Our growth ambitions will have to be capped with the shortage of capacity.”

Qatar Airways said it doesn’t expect its Before the end of this year, we will resolve all delivery delays.

Australia Expansion

Gulf Carrier has expanded its network. its The eyes on Al Baker, a spokesperson for Australia. Qatar Airways It is also planning to support Virgin Australia, a new partner against Qantas. Al Baker smiled when asked if he would invest in Virgin Australia. Although no discussion had occurred, he stated “it depends, we’ll see”.

It is looking to expand daily services into Sydney, Perth and Melbourne. It operates daily flights into every city except Melbourne.

Qatar Airways is confident the expansion will be viewed favorably, said Al Baker, pointing out that he continued to operate international flights to most countries during the pandemic — whereas many national airlines stopped flying outright. 

“I don’t think is a very big ask to the authorities,” Al Baker stated.