Qatar Airways highlighted further expansion into long-haul markets over the next few years as it officially launched here the airline's route. Guangzhou, the capital of Southern China, is Qatar Airways' fourth destination in China and 82nd overall worldwide. The airline's Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al-Baker, speaking of Qatar Airways successful introduction to Guangzhou, said more expansions in long-haul markets over the next few years are on the cards for the Doha-based airline. Addressing the media at a press at the Westin Hotel (Guangzhou), he said the airline was determined to open up further services as part of an aggressive expansion plan to serve exciting business and leisure cities around the world. He cited the Doha-Guangzhou route, launched on March 31, as an example of the airline's commitment to introduce flights to key cities in countries with thriving economies. The carrier currently operates a modern fleet of 62 Airbus and Boeing aircraft to 82 destinations across Europe, Middle East, Africa, Indian Subcontinent, Far East and North America. Starting Nov. 10, it will launch direct non-stop services to Houston, its third destination in the US. “Our new route builds on the success of Qatar Airways' operations across China in such a short few years since we launched flights to this dynamic economic landscape in 2003.” “We have steadily built up our business in China, first with Shanghai, then Beijing and Hong Kong - and am now pleased to see our award-winning Five Star service expand to yet another key city," he said. "Guangzhou offers both business and leisure travelers an alternative gateway to this fascinating country.” “Qatar Airways looks forward to welcoming passengers from Europe, Middle East and Africa on the new flights to Guangzhou via our Doha hub. The route provides a strong sporting link as Doha hosted the biggest ever Asian Games in 2006, while Guangzhou is set to host the next Asian Games in 2010,” added Al-Baker. “We have taken an important step to fly to Guangzhou, and as we grow our business, we will look at similar opportunities far and wide across the world,” he said. With outstanding orders for more than 200 brand new aircraft worth over $30 billion, Al-Baker said deliveries over the next few years will be the catalyst to open up new routes worldwide. “We will soon be able to operate flights to any key city around the world non-stop...with the arrival of the long-range version of our Boeing 777 aircraft later this year,” he added. __
