Qatar Airways expands to Kilimanjaro

Flight QR546 arrived at Kilimanjaro International Airport to an impressive water salute performed by the local fire service. The arrival was followed by a colourful welcome by traditional Tanzanian dancers and an airport ceremony attended by over 80 people, including local dignitaries, airport officials, local and international media. 

Qatar Airways chief commercial officer Marwan Koleilat officiated at the ceremony on behalf of the airline, travelling on the inaugural flight from Doha. Guest of honour in Kilimanjaro was Tanzania’s honourable minister of transport, Dr. Harrison Mwakyembe. Other guests included, Tanzania’s Honourable Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Hamisi Kagasheki and Tanzania’s Civil Aviation Authority Director General  Fadhili Manongi. 

Qatar Airways chief executive officer Akbar Al Baker said that Africa had been long under the radar of the company’s planning team as the region was highly underserved with a lack of international air services. 

“Kilimanjaro signifies the importance Qatar Airways places in looking at airports around the world where capacity is limited, yet passenger demand is strong,” he said. 

“We are pleased to be reinforcing our presence in Africa with the addition of scheduled flights to Tanzania’s tourism centre of Kilimanjaro, home to the infamous Mount Kilimanjaro, allowing us to further develop our business on the African continent. 

“Kilimanjaro is an established tourist centre and is also fast emerging as a growing economic centre, thanks to its abundant wildlife, natural scenic beauty and natural resources. We have great confidence in the Tanzanian travel market ever since we launched flights to Dar es Salaam in 2007.”