DOHA: Qatar Airways has launched the first of its Winter 2005-2006 routes with its inaugural flight to Nairobi touching down in the Kenyan capital.
Flight QR532 carrying a delegation of journalists and tour operators landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport following a five-hour flight from Doha International Airport.
Fathi Al Shehab, the airline's senior manager commercial operations Middle East and Africa, was on the first flight as it arrived to a traditional fireman's water arch salute, followed by a guard of honour of traditional Masai Mara warrior dancers and a cake-cutting ceremony. Qatar Airways regional manager Africa, John Brayford was among the official welcoming party, which included the Kenyan Assistant Minister of Transport, Andrew Ligale, and Kenya Airports Authority Managing Director, George Muhoho.
On arrival in Nairobi, Al Shehab said the city was the gateway to central and eastern Africa that presented Qatar Airways with plenty of opportunities. "We believe this route launch between Doha and Nairobi will give both our cities and, indeed countries, a significant boost to tourism which will help bridge economic ties," he said.
Nairobi is Qatar Airways' ninth destination in Africa. Qatar Airways is serving Nairobi non-stop five-times-a-week from Doha. The airline is using an Airbus A300-600 in a two-class configuration of 12 seats in Business Class and 204 in Economy on the route.
To celebrate the route launch, Qatar Airways is offering members of its Privilege Club frequent flyer programme with double Qmiles for the first full month of the new Nairobi flights.
© The Peninsula 2005
