Mike King, Special Correspondent | Mar 08, 2012 10:48AM EST
Qatar Airways will expand its global bellyhold and freighter network via its Doha hub later this year.
Starting in May, passenger bellyhold capacity will be rolled out over six months to Iraq, Tanzania, Serbia and Myanmar, while new freighter lanes to Korea, Pakistan, South Africa and Oman will be phased in from March 26 using the carrier’s fleet of six freighters.
The frequency of passenger flights to destinations in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Asia-Pacific region will also be increased during 2012.
Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways chief executive, said the expansion is part of the carrier’s strategy of increasing the depth and breadth of its network as new aircraft join its fleet.
“We are entering new passenger and cargo markets where we see a need for more air services, particularly where such markets are under-served and in need for extra capacity,” he said.
“This year alone will see Qatar Airways take delivery of one new aircraft every 15 days, so as we bring them in, they will quickly be inducted into service, and we will continue to look at new opportunities,” Al Baker said.
Contact Mike King at michael@borderline.eu.com.
