Qatar Airways shows major presence at FITUR 2007

For the third year running, the award-winning airline was in the Spanish capital for one of the biggest tourism fairs in the world and the most important exhibition for Latin America. The annual event attracts the crème de la crème of the international travel industry, from airlines, hotels, car rental companies and tourist boards to travel agents, tour operators and media from around the Iberian peninsula and rest of the world.

The five-day international show provided Qatar Airways with the opportunity to showcase its award-winning Five Star hospitality to visitors and fellow exhibitors. The Airline exhibited a 52sqm stand, reflecting the theme of the New Doha International Airport due to open in 2009.The ceiling of the exhibition stand had a dramatic wavy structure, mirroring the design of the new airport that takes it inspiration from the sea. It is being built on reclaimed land from the Arabian Gulf.

Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said:

"Being the first and only Gulf carrier flying to Spain, Qatar Airways made its presence at FITUR. The highly interesting platform was ideal to promote our growing airline in Spain, especially in this year of Qatar Airways' massive expansion, which will offer further attractive routes such as Bali, Ho Chi Minh City and Chennai to the Spanish traveller".

The Airline's four flights a week from Madrid to Doha offer convenient connections to many exciting destinations around the world. Since its launch in December 2005 the Madrid route has proved to be highly successful, with frequency increased from three to four flights a week at the end of 2006. For this summer season, Qatar Airways plans to upgrade the route with an A330-200, which will enhance the product offering and comfort levels of the passengers travelling with the airline.

With a fleet of 52 all-Airbus aircraft, Qatar Airways operates to more than 70 destinations worldwide from its operational hub of Doha, capital of the State of Qatar. Now, in its 10th anniversary year, Qatar Airways will add exciting new destinations to its growing network, together with more flights on existing routes to give passengers more choice. Brand new Airbus and Boeing aircraft will join the fleet with deliveries of the first of Qatar Airways' Boeing 777s taking place from November 2007.

With a growing international network, more travellers will have an opportunity to use Qatar Airways' brand new Premium Terminal at Doha International Airport, exclusively for departing and transiting First and Business Class passengers.

The Premium Terminal features facilities such as a spa, jacuzzi, duty free, business centre and fine dining restaurants. Built in just nine months, the terminal is the world's first commercial passenger building dedicated to First and Business Class passengers.