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Qatar Airways' corporate jet subsidiary Qatar Executive is eyeing new markets and plans to expand its fleet of Bombardier aircraft, says Group chief executive Akbar Al Baker

How important is the MENA region to the company?

There is huge regional potential and Qatar Airways , through Qatar Executive, wants to tap into this. All our [Bombardier] Global and Challenger 605s are well-booked and since the inception of Qatar Executive two years ago, we have grown rapidly to become a lucrative business. Another benefit is support from Qatar Airways . Of all the Gulf-based scheduled airlines, Qatar Airways is the only one which operates a dedicated business jet subsidiary, and we leverage on the parent company's huge sales and marketing network support. However, most of our business comes through our strong relationships with international brokers.

Qatar Executive recently participated at the Jet Expo show in Moscow. How important a market is Russia?

Private jets are growing in demand, as the net-worth of individuals rises. Russia is a key market, where we are looking to expand by having aircraft based permanently at Vnukovo Airport in order to become a stronger partner to the Russian broker industry. At present we do a lot of flying in and out of Russia.

Which other emerging markets is the company targeting?

Libya is an attractive market. We offer flights to Libya in combination with a security firm, offering safety support to executives and companies on arrival and departure. Our partnership with this firm allows for additional security on the ground when traveling around high-risk destinations. In future, we will expand into the rapidly emerging markets of China, South East Asia and India, as well as West Africa. Where Qatar Airways flies First Class passengers, there is a natural synergy for the national airline to transfer customers onto our corporate business aircraft to their final destinations, which in many cases are not served by scheduled airlines. This is a market we are increasingly tapping into.

Does the company plan to grow the business via acquisitions?

We are looking into opportunities to grow our global reach by partnering with regional aircraft-operating companies in the US, Europe and other important markets.

Does the company plan to expand its fleet?

Qatar Executive continues to look at opportunities to grow the business, with further aircraft to be inducted into the fleet over time. The current fleet consists of three Bombardier Challenger 605s; two Bombardier Global 5000s and one Bombardier Global Express XRS.

Will fleet additions include larger aircraft in the 40-seat range, such as the Boeing Business Jet or Airbus?

We have no such plans at this stage. Our focus right now is on smaller corporate jets.

How important to the company is the long-term relationship with Bombardier?

It is very important and we work very closely together. The Qatar Executive hangar is recognised by Bombardier as an Approved Service Facility in the Middle East, and we also operate demo flights for Bombardier to showcase aircraft to potential customers.

What private and corporate jet facilities will be available at the upcoming New Doha International Airport (NDIA), and when will they be completed?

Qatar Executive is currently developing the most prestigious Fixed Base Operation (FBO) in the Middle East, as part of the NDIA. The completion of the FBO base might take up to two years. In the meantime Qatar Executive is offering FBO and handling services at the existing Doha International Airport. Qatar Executive has invested significantly in infrastructure: a dedicated 6,300 square metre hangar at Doha International Airport for maintenance operations serves the company, as well as other carriers.

What plans does Qatar Executive have for Dubai Airshow this month?

Together with Qatar Airways , who will be showcasing its flagship Boeing 777 aircraft, we will have our newest Global 5000 on static display.

Why did Qatar Airways launch a corporate jet subsidiary?

It was launched as part of its continued commitment to the Middle East and Qatari business travel community, and to meet the needs of a premium market segment looking for more flexibility and value for money. Our Doha hub is perfectly located, and a good base for long range aircraft like our global jets.

© The Gulf 2011