QATAR. Qatar Airways, one of the world’s fastest-growing airlines, has announced an investment of US$150 million in the second half of this year for the second phase of the Doha International Airport expansion.
“This second phase expansion, which will take five months to complete, will include expanding the arrivals terminal to increase its capacity from 3.5 million to six million passengers, the construction of an additional five bays and two hangars, expanding the duty free by +25% to provide in total 1,250 square metres and the building of covered car parking to accommodate 2,000 cars,” said chief executive Akbar Al Baker.
“This investment reflects the growth of our airline and of Doha as an expanding international tourism and business hub.”
The third phase of the expansion of Doha International Airport will see Qatar Airways invest an additional US$50 million and will provide five more bays, taking the total number to 29 when the expansion is complete.
“Qatar Airways has an aggressive fleet development programme which will see our current fleet of 23 Airbus aircraft grow to 28 by the end of this year,” said Al Baker. Qatar Airways recently announced the delivery of a new A330-200 and A320-200. It will shortly take delivery of a long-range A319 corporate jetliner and is one of the launch customers for the A380 ‘super jumbo’ scheduled for delivery in 2007.
Meanwhile, the airline has announced that it will begin a thrice-weekly Doha-Moscow flight on August 13th, making the Russian Federation capital its 42nd destination. “This same day service is timed to suit both business and leisure travellers,” said Al Baker. “There are strong and increasing tourism links between Russia and Gulf destinations and the operation of a premium service on the route is likely to attract a substantial following.” Last year, Qatar Airways recorded sales revenue growth of +10% on its annual target. Cargo revenues also performed well, producing 12% growth on the previous year. The carrier also operates a number of subsidiary companies, including Qatar Duty Free, in partnership with Aer Rianta International-Middle East.
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