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Qatar
Airways is to begin Melbourne services later this year.
Mr Al-Baker, Qatar Airway's Chief Executive Officer, today welcomed
Victorian Premier Steve Bracks to Doha by announcing Qatar Airways had decided to make Melbourne its first destination in Australia, with services
commencing in late 2004.
"While we are still finalising our schedule, commencing services to
Melbourne is a key step in Qatar Airways' plans to become a major international carrier between Australia, the Middle East and Europe," Mr
Al-Baker said.
Mr Al-Baker said the company's growth, along with
US$2.5 billion
redevelopment of Doha International Airport, would make Qatar a major hub
for international services to Australia.
"We see Qatar Airways' expanding fleet of new aircraft fitted to the highest
levels of passenger comfort as a new benchmark in travel to Australia," Mr
Al-Baker said.
Mr Bracks welcomed the announcement, saying it was a coup for Victoria
that Qatar Airways had decided to fly to Melbourne first ahead of other Australian destinations.
"We welcome Qatar to Victoria, and are sure it will be successful in
transporting more Australian tourists to this country as well as bringing
guests from Doha to Melbourne," he said.
Late last year, Australia and Qatar finalised an air services agreement that
allows Qatar Airways to operate three services per week to Australia.
In talks with Premier Bracks, Mr Al-Baker said Qatar Airways was committed
to Melbourne services and would demonstrate that demand exists for daily
services at least by Qatar Airways.
Mr Bracks said Tourism Victoria would prepare a cooperative marketing
program aimed at maximising outcomes for Qatar Airlines and Victoria.
"I want to assure Qatar Airways that Victoria values its decision and will
work hard to make these services a success," Mr Bracks said. |
