Qatar Airways is all set for “a new beginning” as it prepares to start its flight operations from Hamad International Airport today.
The move will mean that as of 9am Doha time, all commercial passenger airlines operating into Qatar will be arriving and departing from Hamad International Airport, the airline said on Monday.
“The move of our entire operations to HIA is a momentous occasion for Qatar Airways, and one that we have been preparing for extensively for a long time,” said Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker.
“Our move to HIA heralds a new beginning for Qatar Airways, as we will now be based in a world-class hub that has been entirely designed to meet the needs and expectations of even the most discerning passengers.
“With the capacity to handle 8,700 customers per hour, HIA will provide a seamless, hassle-free experience to our passengers, from check-in to passport control and boarding.”
The HIA Passenger Terminal Complex will house a total of 138 check-in counters across five islands, including 108 counters for Qatar Airways Economy passengers and all other airlines, 16 counters dedicated to Qatar Airways Business Class travellers and 14 luxury, bespoke, seated check-in counters for Qatar Airways First Class passengers.
The airline said all passengers are advised to arrive three hours before their flight, with check-in closing one hour before departure for Economy Class, and 45 minutes before departure for First and Business Class.
It added that e-Gates are already operational in both the departures and arrivals areas.
Hamad International Airport also offers 40,000 square metres of combined retail, food and beverage facilities, establishing the airport as a premier shopping and dining destination.
More than 70 retail outlets and 30 cafes and restaurants are now open, a statement said.
The new airport is located on the East coast of the peninsula, 16km from the centre of Doha.