» HAS Newsroom
Houston Airport System
March 30, 2009
|
International travelers have a reason to be excited as Qatar Airways inaugurates service to Houston on March 30, 2009.
Qatar Airways' nonstop service between Doha and Bush Intercontinental Airport marks the third U.S. destination for the Five--Star airline.
"This new international service is a strong reflection of the contribution that George Bush Intercontinental Airport has on the local economy," said Rick Vacar, director of the Houston Airport System. “At a time when other airports are losing service, Houston is growing. We are thrilled to celebrate Qatar Airway's entrance into our city."
Tony Hughes, Qatar Airways’ Senior Vice President Americas, shared the airline's vision during a recent visit to Houston. Local media had a chance to discuss Qatar Airways maiden voyage into the Houston market, and hear plans for a major media campaign this month.
"The catalyst for the Houston air service is actually the oil business," explained Hughes. "There was a natural synergy between Doha and Houston, and this service allows us to connect two very important energy capitals."
The Doha-Houston route will be the first time Qatar Airways deploys a Boeing 777-200 Long Range aircraft with a two-class configuration of 42 seats in Business Class. Passengers will be able to enjoy comfortable and spacious seats for the long flight. |
|
© Houston Airport System
Customer service features on Qatar Airways include spacious seating and multi-media access |
"The route represents aviation history since this will be one of the longest nonstop flights in the world lasting an estimated 17 hours." Hughes added. "The comfort for customers will be noticeable since our plane will feature seats that recline 180 degrees creating a comfortable bed."
From its hub in Doha, Qatar Airways serves more than 80 destinations in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, the Far East and North America. The other U.S. destinations are New York (JFK) and Washington, D.C. (Dulles). The airline also has a codeshare with United Airlines.
Qatar Airways operates a modern fleet of 63 Airbus and Boeing aircraft, a significant increase from the four aircraft it had in its fleet in 1997. Qatar Airways also has weathered tough economic times in the airline industry, with a 35 percent annual growth rate.
Copyright © 2009 - Houston Airport System |
