Qatar Airways, under the leadership of CEO Akbar Al Baker, is poised for significant expansion, targeting a global network of 250 destinations. Already in 2023, the airline has added three new destinations and resumed service to seven others, in addition to plans for further expansion by the end of the year and into the next. Qatar Airways is known for its premium services, including top-tier business seats.
By the end of 2023, the airline will introduce service to Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and Ras Al Kaimah, UAE. Additionally, six more destinations are set to be launched next summer. This expansion will elevate the airline’s reach to 185 airports worldwide. Delays in aircraft manufacturing, attributed to COVID-related supply chain challenges, will slightly stagger Qatar’s plans to reach a total of 250 global gateways, with full realization expected in 2025 or 2026.
CEO Al Baker emphasizes the strategic importance of markets in India and Africa, citing current limitations in both quantity and quality of air travel services. He sees significant potential in these regions but cautions that infrastructure constraints, including the need for enhanced airports and optimized airspace management, could impact the airline’s ambitions.
In the United States, Qatar Airways intends to double departures from Seattle and Miami, aiming for twice-daily flights. Expanded service from New York’s JFK Airport is also slated to increase from twice daily to three times daily starting October 29.
