With the launch of service to Cambodia, Qatar Airways becomes the only Middle Eastern airline flying to the South East Asian nation – and destination number 125 served worldwide.
Flight QR602 arrived at Phnom Penh International Airport on Wednesday 20 February 2013, and was greeted by local dignitaries and the traditional water cannon salute. The service will now operate daily, with flights stopping in Phnom Penh as part of the journey between Doha and Ho Chi Minh City.
Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker was joined on the inaugural flight direct from the carrier’s Doha hub by His Excellency Long Kem, Ambassador, Royal Embassy of Cambodia to the State of Kuwait and responsible for Qatar, together with international media.
Guests gathered at Phonm Penh International Airport in celebration of the new air link, connecting Cambodia with scores of destinations across Europe, Middle East, Africa, North America and South America.
Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker was joined on the inaugural flight direct from the carrier’s Doha hub by Long Kem, Ambassador, Royal Embassy of Cambodia to the State of Kuwait and responsible for Qatar, together with international media.
Al Baker said the latest route by the award-winning airline opened up a great new market for business and leisure travellers from around the world, while at the same time opening up air access from Cambodia to destinations worldwide.
“Though Cambodia is one of the fastest growing economies in South East Asia, it has an air travel market that is highly underserved. Qatar Airways is here to fill this void and we look forward to working with the travel trade and our business partners to make this a hugely successful operation.
“Qatar Airways is spreading its reach in Asia and we are proud to say that our commitment to this diverse continent will continue,” he added.
“In just a month’s time, we will be adding Chengdu in China, which will join our family of destinations in Asia, a continent which now represents around 30 percent of Qatar Airways’ global network.
“Another significant milestone for Qatar Airways this year will be the introduction of Chicago as our fourth US gateway adding to daily operations to New York, Washington and Houston.
“Qatar Airways currently operates dedicated flights to Paris and Montreal – both very important feeder markets for Cambodia, more so with the country having historic connections with the French. We look forward to welcoming passengers connecting Cambodia with these key markets.
