Qatar Airways launched new daily nonstop flights between Houston and Doha on March 30, 2009.

Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker received a big Texas welcome as his airline's new Boeing 777-200 Long Range aircraft touched down at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).

The special airport celebration began with a classic water cannon salute as the jet pulled up to the terminal.

A crowd of Houston business professionals, government officials, city employees and economic development leaders gathered in a lounge at Houston's hub airport as Al Baker addressed everyone who gathered for the festive celebration of the new international air service.

"Passenger demand prompted this new route and I am absolutely thrilled we are able to bring our award-winning Five Star service to this wonderful gateway," says Al Baker. "Houston is the first new route for Qatar Airways in a robust year of growth."

To celebrate the occasion, Houston City Controller Annise Parker presented Al Baker with an official proclamation declaring it as "Qatar Airways Day."

Air passengers who travel frequently between the United States and the Middle East will benefit from the new route. The catalyst for the new international air service is the connection of two important energy capitals. As Houston's sixth largest trading partner in the Middle East, Qatar was considered one of the top underserved international markets.

"Houston is honored to be the third U.S. destination for Qatar Airways," says Rob Wigington, Houston Airport System deputy director of Marketing, Communications and Community Affairs. "This new route is not only great for business and leisure travel between Houston and Doha, but it is going to generate more traffic for our global gateway."

The nonstop flight between Houston and Doha features 42 Business Class seats with a pitch of up to 78 inches and each one converts into a 180-degree fully flat bed with a seat configuration of 2-2-2. Meanwhile the 217 Economy Class seats have a pitch of up to 34 inches and seat configuration of 3-3-3.