Qatar's Hamad International Airport opens

Ten airlines are initially operating out of the $17 billion facility; Biman Bangladesh Airlines, flydubai, Air Arabia, Iran Air, Air India Express, Yemenia Airways, Pakistan International Airlines, Nepal Airlines, Syrian Air and Pegasus Airlines. All other carriers are due to make the switch on May 27. 

HIA contains 41 widebody aircraft contact gates (which will rise to 65 on final completion), together with over 25,000sqm of retail space (104 retail outlets and 30 cafes/restaurants), passenger lounges and parking. Other features include a new Emiri (royal) Terminal complex for VIP flights with additional hardstands, cargo terminal buildings, aircraft hangars and associated airline and airport ancillary features. The complex will include an airport hotel and 100-room transit hotel. 

Qatar Airways added: Hamad International Airport (HIA) will transform the travelling experience. It will offer world-class travel efficiency and the highest possible standards of passenger care. Combining progressive design, highly advanced technology, and years of expert planning, HIA’s construction is one of the largest mega-projects in the world.