Qatar Airways adds Birmingham to its network

Qatar Airways has inaugurated the airline's fourth United Kingdom gateway, with direct flights between Doha and Birmingham connecting the city with more than 150 destinations worldwide.
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The addition of Birmingham marks the fourth U.K. gateway for Qatar Airways after London Heathrow, Manchester and Edinburgh, with the eight weekly services operated by a Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. 

Qatar Airways Group chief executive, Akbar Al Baker said: “We are delighted to commence services to Birmingham, our fourth U.K gateway. This vibrant and economically powerful region represents an important addition to our worldwide network and is a testament to our commitment to the U.K. Passengers now have access to more than 150 global destinations, accessed via 73 flights per week from the U.K., facilitated by smooth transfers through our home and hub, Hamad International Airport.” 

Qatar Airways now operates 73 flights per week to the U.K., with 42 flights per week to London Heathrow, 16 to Manchester, seven to Edinburgh and eight to Birmingham, from its state-of-the-art hub, Hamad International Airport. 

Hamad International Airport offers 40,000 square metres of combined retail, food and beverage facilities, establishing the airport as a premier shopping and dining destination. With more than 70 retail outlets offering an unprecedented selection of designer labels, high street fashion, electronics and gourmet foods, the airport also features an airside hotel, complete with swimming pool, squash courts and spa. 

The British Ambassador to Qatar, Ajay Sharma said “I was delighted to be able to travel on the inaugural flight from Doha to Birmingham. The launch of this new route will open up further opportunities for both Qatar and the U.K. Just like Doha, Birmingham and the surrounding area is host to a number of investment projects and tourist destinations that will appeal to investors and visitors. I am certain that this route will successfully enhance the partnership between our two countries.” 

Birmingham Airport chief executive officer, Paul Kehoe added: “We are extremely excited to be welcoming Qatar Airways to Birmingham Airport. Connecting the economically vibrant West Midlands region with the rapidly developing capital city of Doha will be hugely beneficial to passengers at both ends of the route. Additionally, the large selection of onward connections on Qatar’s network gives our long-haul travellers access to more of the most popular destinations around the world from Birmingham.”