Qatar Airways commences full operations at Hamad International Airport

Qatar Airways on Tuesday commenced full operations at its new hub, Hamad International Airport (HIA).

Operations for all airlines have been transferred to HIA and the first Qatar Airways commercial flight landed in HIA from Bahrain at 9:10 a.m. Arabia Standard Time, according to a Qatar Airways press statement on Tuesday.

Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker described the commencement of operations from HIA as a milestone in the history of Qatar Airways, and said that it will allow the airline to fully realize its ambitions.

“The moment we have all been building towards for many years arrived today as QR1113 touched down, marking the historic start of our full operations at the world-class Hamad International Airport,” said Akbar Al Baker.

“Qatar Airways will be able to offer an exceptional passenger experience, as HIA has been designed with passengers foremost in mind. The airport will also be able to accommodate the world’s largest aircraft, such as our much-anticipated Qatar Airways Airbus A380 which will commence operations to the UK in June and France in July,” Qatar Airways’ CEO said.

Passengers on Tuesday were greeted at HIA with roses, dates, coffee, chocolate and Qatari flags. The state-of-the-art airport is equipped with a number of services including free Wi-Fi, play areas for children, multiple quiet areas to relax, and an array of shopping and eating options.

HIA also has 70 retail outlets offering a large selection of designer labels, high street fashion, electronics and gourmet foods from over 30 cafes and restaurants.

The new airport is located 16km from the centre of Doha and 4km from Doha International Airport.