QA flies 1.8 mn people home amid COVID-19 pandemic
The airline operates more than 15,000 flights covering over 50 million km and repatriating over 1.8 mn passengers
QATAR Airways (QA) has led the aviation industry during COVID-19 pandemic challenging times taking over 1.8 million passengers home safely on more flights to more destinations than any other airline, becoming the largest airline in the world over the past three months.
The efforts have established the carrier as the airline passengers, governments and industry partners can rely on and trust.
QA Group Chief Executive Akbar al Baker said, “During this crisis, more passengers have chosen to fly with Qatar Airways than any other airline and we appreciate the trust they have placed in us. We have become the largest global carrier flying over 50 million kilometres to repatriate over 1.8 million passengers on over 15,000 flights. This has enabled us to accumulate unrivalled experience of how to safely and reliably carry passengers during these uncertain times.
“Our wide network of flights during this period has ensured we have kept up to date with the latest in international airport procedures and implemented the most advanced safety and hygiene measures on board our aircraft and in our awardwinning hub, Hamad International Airport (HIA), recently voted the Best Airport in the Middle East for the sixth consecutive year. This is why more people rely on us for international travel than any other airline during this crisis and why we will continue to ensure the safest and most reliable experience for our passengers as we resume flights to more destinations over the summer.”
He added, “Qatar Airways is a carrier that has been recognised as the World’s Best Airline on five occasions by Skytrax, built significant goodwill with governments and embassies as we assisted stranded citizens and most importantly, been available non-stop for stranded passengers during the pandemic. We have been here 24/7 during the darkest days and will continue to be a friend in need as confidence returns and people restart their travel plans.”
While many airlines have been forced or chosen to suspend operations, Qatar Airways has maintained a robust and agile network helping to take over 1.8 million passengers home.
The airline has also worked with governments and companies around the world to operate over 220 charters and extra sector flights helping reunite over 62,000 people with their loved ones. As the global recovery from COVID-19 begins, the airline recently announced plans to gradually rebuild its network in line with passenger demand evolution and the expected relaxation of entry restrictions around the world. By the end of June, the airline plans to expand its network to 80 destinations with more to be added by the end of the Summer Season.
To ensure travellers can plan their travel with peace of mind, the airline will allow unlimited date changes and passengers can change their destination as often as they need if it is within 5,000 miles of the original destination.
Working with governments and NGOs around the globe, QA Cargo has transported over 175,000 tonnes of medical and aid supplies to impacted regions, the equivalent of roughly 1,750 fully loaded Boeing 777 freighters.
QA has further enhanced its onboard safety measures for passengers and cabin crew. The airline has implemented several changes, including the introduction of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) suits for cabin crew while onboard, as well as a modified service that reduces interactions between the passengers and the crew inflight.
HIA is also minimising any risks to the health and safety of passengers and staff. As a vital pillar to Qatar’s national economy, HIA’s doors remain open as it continues its operations to take people home, and ensure food security for the State of Qatar through air cargo.
HIA has implemented stringent cleaning procedures and closed most of the non-essential passenger facilities.