Qatar Airways touches down for first time in Abuja
By Peace Busari
Qatar Airways has disclosed that it will now operate three weekly flights from Abuja, Nigeria via Lagos as the two cities become the sixth new destination announced by the airline since the start of the pandemic.
According to the Airline, the Abuja service will be operated with its state-of-the-art Boeing 787 Dreamliner featuring 22 seats in Business Class and 232 seats in Economy Class.
Meanwhile, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Managing Director, Capt. Rabiu H. Yadudu said: “The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria is very pleased to welcome to Abuja Qatar Airways , one of the Best and most Efficient Airlines in the World.
While speaking, he noted that this is another important milestone in rendering a substantial and mutual Service delivery to the nation, especially during these challenging times, assuring users of the airline of “a consistent support and cooperation that will add more value to your Operations.”
In line with the airline’s expanding operations across Africa, passengers can look forward to a touch of African hospitality onboard with the carrier’s multicultural cabin crew including more than 30 African nationalities. Additionally, passengers across the network can also enjoy a variety of African movies, TV shows and music on Oryx One, Qatar Airways’ in-flight entertainment system.
Meanwhile, Qatar Airways travellers from Africa can now enjoy new baggage allowances ranging from 46kg for Economy Class split over two pieces and 64kg split over two pieces in Business Class.
This initiative is designed to offer passengers more flexibility and comfort when travelling on board Qatar Airways. For more information please visit https://www. qatarairways .com/en-qa/baggage/allowance.html
However, Nigerian NewsDirect gathered that Qatar Airways’ strategic investment in a variety of fuel-efficient, twin-engine aircraft, including the largest fleet of Airbus A350 aircraft, has enabled it to continue flying throughout this crisis and perfectly positions it to lead the sustainable recovery of international travel.
The airline recently took delivery of three new state-of-the-art Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, increasing its total A350 fleet to 52 with an average age of just 2.6 years.
Due to COVID-19’s impact on travel demand, the airline has grounded its fleet of Airbus A380s as it is not environmentally justifiable to operate such a large four-engine aircraft in the current market. Qatar Airways has also recently launched a new programme that enables passengers to voluntarily offset the carbon emissions associated with their journey at the point of booking.
