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The vast majority of the past year or so has been nothing but a constant stream of bad news for travelers. With several flights cancelled due to strict entry restrictions and millions of travelers staying home rather than boarding flights, many airlines have taken to slashing routes and flight frequencies in order to cut costs.
However, with the advent of vaccination campaigns and the falling of case numbers, some airlines are both literally and figuratively starting their engines. Qatar Airways is one of these, with more than 140 destinations to be serviced this summer – here’s what we know so far.
How Was Qatar Doing Pre-Pandemic?
Prior to the pandemic – and certainly still now – Qatar Airways enjoyed a stellar reputation as one of the world’s leading carriers. The flag carrier of Qatar, it has won dozens of awards over the past decade, including airline of the year and airport of the year, and has become synonymous with luxury and comfort amongst travelers.
At the peak of the summer in 2019 – the last year that was unaffected by the pandemic – Qatar Airways flew to around 160 different destinations, connecting passengers from all around the world. Whilst the pandemic was gather pace, the airline ran a series of promotions such as free flight tickets for healthcare workers and teachers in recognition of their efforts to combat the effects of Covid-19, further strengthening the company’s brand image. The pandemic saw the number of destinations fall, but it was recently announced that the number would be rising again this year.
Qatar’s Summer 2021 Plans – Information For Travelers
It was announced this week that Qatar Airways has plans to operate more than 1,200 weekly flights to more than 140 different destinations by summer 2021. Having already rebuilt their network to 120 destinations by January this year, the news represents a welcome return to normality for fans of the airline and fans of travel alike.
Whilst the schedules are yet to be confirmed, the destinations have been released subject to regulatory approval. The list of destinations includes 23 places in Africa, 14 in the Americas, 43 in Asia-Pacific, 43 in Europe and 19 in Middle East. A full list of the destinations that Qatar will be flying to can be found on the airline’s website here.
Speaking about the about, Qatar’s chief executive Akbar Al Baker said:
“Having never stopped flying throughout the pandemic, we have used our unrivalled experience and modern, fuel-efficient fleet to operate a sustainable and reliable network our passengers, trade partners and corporate customers can rely on. We also continue to offer the largest international network, including launching seven new destinations, to provide the connectivity our passengers and cargo customers need.”
“As the global vaccine rollout begins to gather pace, we look forward to a gradual easing of entry restrictions throughout 2021 and welcoming back our millions of passengers on board the World’s Best Airline.”
How Has Qatar Adapted To The Pandemic?
Qatar has been progressive in its approach to dealing with the pandemic and its issues. It became one of the first airlines to test the IATA’s Travel Pass app, whilst it was also voted one of the safest and most Covid-compliant airlines in the world. It is also set to be the first airline to offer contactless in-flight entertainment systems, minimizing the spread of the virus further.
Read more:
Southwest Places Huge Order For Controversial Boeing 737 Max Jets
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Top 10 Road Trip Routes In The U.S. For 2021
U.S. State By State Quarantine And Testing Rules
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Attila
Tuesday 30th of March 2021
Problematic airlines, test for transit, face shield etc. I never want to fly with them. The best is the Turkish.