Qatar Airways generates biggest media interest on opening day of ITB Berlin

Media interest was exceptional as Qatar Airways showed off its new aircraft livery that takes it into the next generation of air travel.

The airline also introduced to the world its brand new First Class lounge onboard its long-haul Airbus A340-600 aircraft, which Qatar Airways takes delivery of, beginning this summer.

Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker, who is in Berlin for the five-day trade show, said he was delighted at the immense level of interest in Qatar Airways as the airline also unveiled its biggest-ever and new-look exhibition stand.

"ITB Berlin is a landmark show, the biggest travel event in the world and Qatar Airways was once again privileged to showcase the best of the best," he said.

"We made our biggest announcement for years unveiling our brand new aircraft livery which will be introduced progressively on all our aircraft from this summer. And we showcased our new First Class lounge that will be introduced on the first of our long-haul Airbus A340-600 aircraft, which joins the Qatar Airways fleet from this summer."

Qatar Airways is the launch customer of the High Gross Weight (HGW) version of the A340-600 aircraft which is capable of flying up to 14 hours non-stop with a full load of passengers and cargo. Qatar Airways plans to serve the United States non-stop from Doha with the A340-600 (HGW).

Added Al Baker: "Qatar Airways has become a more progressive and confident airline, taking the lead in the global aviation industry with innovative products, inflight service and style. Qatar Airways is entering a new era which is why we have unveiled a bold new look that projects us as a more powerful international brand."

Al Baker spent time with the world's media explaining Qatar Airways' new livery. Gone is the word 'Airways' and instead 'QATAR' is emblazoned across the fuselage of the aircraft. The tail fin is painted burgundy with an image of the Oryx, national animal and icon of the State of Qatar. The change reflects the importance of Qatar as a country to rest of the world.

During ITB, Al Baker guided the international media around Qatar Airways' new 200sqm exhibition stand, a two-tier structure inspired by the design of the New Doha International Airport which is under construction.

Qatar Airways currently flies to 69 destinations across Europe, Middle East, Africa, Indian subcontinent and the Far East from its operational hub of Doha, capital of the State of Qatar. With its codeshare partners, the airline serves more than 80 destinations worldwide.

Qatar Airways is to launch daily non-stop scheduled flights between Doha and Hong Kong on March 26.