Qatar Airways invest QR140 million in Doha terminal extensions

Published September 3rd, 2003 - 03:00 GMT

Qatar Airways announced the second phase of expansion to Doha International Airport which is the hub of the national carrier’s operations. The airline will spend more than 140 million Qatari riyal ($38.45 million) to expand the arrivals and departures terminal this year and increase the capacity of the airport from 4.2 million passengers to 7.5 million passengers.

The expansion of the terminal building is part of a half billion Qatari riyal program to improve the capacity of the airport this year, as Qatar Airways continues to grow, according to Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al-Baker said. As part of this growth plan, Qatar Airways will extend its route network to 50 destinations by the end of 2003, and 60 by the end of 2004.

The airport’s newly renovated arrivals terminal includes Qatar Airways' new meet-and-assist service Al-Maha, as well as a new Qatar Duty Free boutique, a renovated baggage collection area, and a new passenger services area.

"In this year alone we will increase the terminal capacity from 4.2 million passengers to 7.5 million passengers, increase the duty free area, build new aircraft stands and provide parking for 2000 vehicles,” he stated.

Qatar Airways has recently signed a $5.1 billion agreement to purchase 32 more additional Airbus aircraft in a deal that will increase the fleet to 52 by 2008. It has recently added Manchester, Rome and Moscow to its route network. Qatar Airways is also one of the launch customers for the A380 'super jumbo' in 2007, when it will take delivery of two of the aircraft.

Qatar Airways operates a number of subsidiary companies including: Qatar Aviation Services, Qatar Aviation Catering Company, United Media International, Qatar Airways Holidays, Doha International Airport, and Qatar Duty Free. – (menareport.com)