Qatar Airways held a large press briefing along with Airbus at the Airbus Factory in Hamburg, Germany, earlier this week as the airline took delivery of its highly anticipated first A380. With 10 Airbus A380-800s on order, Qatar Airways is preparing to take delivery of four of them before the end of this year.
Speaking at the press conference, Akbar Al Baker, Group Chief Executive, Qatar Airways said, “This has been a moment more than a decade in the making and we are so delighted to unveil a new passenger experience for our travellers. The A380 that we are introducing is not just any A380; we have completely designed every element, giving it a signature touch that has never been seen before on board. Additionally, the newly opened Hamad International Airport, the airline’s hub in Doha, has been specifically created with the A380 in mind, with five contact gates dedicated only for this aircraft, making the experience smooth and effortless for passengers.”
The airline will first introduce A380 services on one of its frequencies on the Doha – London route from October, followed by Paris Charles De Gaulle shortly thereafter.
“We are very pleased to welcome Qatar Airways as the latest airline to offer unprecedented A380 services to the world. The multi-award-winning carrier and our flagship product are a perfect match to excite the flying public in all markets. Leading carrier Qatar Airways aims for the best, and we are proud our A380 is an essential ingredient in their strategy to show-off their excellence and hospitality, connecting the world,” said Fabrice Brégier, President and CEO, Airbus.
The 517-seat aircraft is spread across twin decks in a tri-class configuration of eight seats in First Class; 48 seats in Business Class and 461 in Economy Class.
