Qatar Airways inaugurates new service to Istanbul

Qatar Airways launched its new service to Istanbul yesterday, marking its first flight to Turkey as it continues to expand its international route network.

"I am very pleased to inaugurate Qatar Airways' new service to Istanbul. It represents the 52nd destination on our growing route network and is an important new service for us and the people of Turkey," said Qatar Airways' Chief Executive Officer Mr. Akbar Al Baker.

"With the anticipated inaugurals of Zurich, Kabul, Melbourne and Johannesburg, Qatar Airways will be able to offer potential travellers an extensive international route network that will encompass 60 destinations by early 2005, and 70 destinations by the end of 2005.

"Qatar Airways is also pleased to announce the opening of its offices at the Ceylan Intercontinental Hotel in Istanbul, which is centrally located to give all our customers easy access and convenience when wishing to make all their travel arrangements with Qatar Airways," added Mr. Al Baker.

Qatar Airways will be flying to Istanbul three times per week. Flight QR480 will leave Doha at 11:40 hrs on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays to arrive in Istanbul at 15:25 hrs local time.

Return flight QR481 leaves Istanbul on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 16:15hrs, arriving at Doha International Airport at 20:00 hrs local time.