Qatar Airways buys 49% stake in Italy's Meridiana

Qatar Airways Group chief executive, Akbar Al Baker (above) said: “We are delighted to formalise this important partnership, which will help increase Meridiana’s competitiveness in the European market.

“We look forward to working together to reinforce its position to provide even more connectivity to Italy and other European destinations, as well as those in the US and beyond.” 

Transport Minister Graziano Delrio added that  it would ensure job security for Meridiana workers, and create the potential for future job growth.