India Occupies Key Position In Qatar Airways Ambitious Growth Plans: Baker

“Qatar Airways, has identified India as a key element in its multibillion dollar ambitious growth plans. Besides, Qatar and the national carrier both have very old and strong links to India, said Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways. He further added that, "The airline is also very excited about its future growth plans in which India forms a critical element. We promise you that our relationship will be mutually beneficial, wherein we shall both draw upon our comparative strengths and pull together for a better future for the both of us."

Upward Curve

The young airline is moving rapidly on the upward curve and is now set to achieve greater heights. "Within a short span since our birth, we have managed to add 48 major global destinations to our ever-expanding network. We added some ten destinations as diverse as Singapore, Shanghai, Vienna, Tripoli and Cebu late last year. That trend is being continued well into this year with a target of serving more than 60 major worldwide destinations by 2004," added Baker.

He revealed that immediate plans include the further breaching of the high-potential markets of Switzerland, Turkey, Egypt and Afghanistan over the next few months. These four new destinations are just a precursor of much more to come from the young airline.

Tremendous Potential

Qatar Airways is increasing its fleet to 52 aircraft in the next five years - and to 56 aircraft by 2011. It has also recently signed a US$ 5.1 billion order for 34 Airbus aircraft. "Ours is, perhaps, one of the youngest fleet in the world. Recently, we shall receive this year additional 13 aircraft to take the fleet up from the current 29 aircraft to 42 aircraft by the end of year 2004," said Baker.