SOARING HIGH

In order to conquer the skies, one must be bold enough to take on all of challenges that lie beyond the horizon. The award-winning Qatar Airways has done just that by spreading its wings with the launch of its brand new Airbus A350 XWB. This aircraft represents the first of the 80 ordered by the airline. Prior to the official inauguration ceremony, a special press conference was held at the Premium Terminal of Doha International Airport. It is here that Akbar Al Baker, the Group Chief Executive of Qatar Airways, explained the significance of the launch: “Introducing the A350 XWB signifies a special historic moment for Qatar Airways especially since it is the first in the industry.”

For those familiar with Akbar’s reputation, many would attest that he has been instrumental in shaping Qatar Airways into the multiple-award winning airline that it is today. Prior to his appointment in 1997, the airline was a regional one, operating a total of four aircrafts. Thanks to Akbar’s single-minded vision and no-holds-barred approach, Qatar Airways has become one of the fastest growing airlines in the world, with a modern fleet of more than 130 aircrafts, offering routes to over 140 major business and leisure destinations across six continents.

“As a leader within the aviation circuit, we are constantly breaking new grounds by sticking to simple and clear objectives. This was the vision of HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani (the Emir of Qatar) – to propel Qatar Airways into a five-star airline that offers only the highest standards of service in the skies. We are closely watched, followed and monitored by our peers within the industry. Quite simply, we are always breaking new territory.”

INNOVATION WHERE IT COUNTS
According to Akbar, the aircraft was specifically designed by Qatar Airways in order to redefine the air travel experience: “Unlike any other aircraft we have in our fleet, the A350 XWB was completely designed in a joint manner right from the start. We wanted an aeroplane that was very Qatar Airways specific. The amenities inside the plane were also specifically chosen based on what we felt our passengers would want.”

As a way to meet those high expectations, Qatar Airways worked very closely with Airbus and Rolls-Royce to ensure that every detail of the design process would be up to par. In terms of specs, this stylish aircraft was designed to be swift, sleek and silent. Powered by two new-generation Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the A350 XWB emits 25 per cent lower CO2 compared with other current generation aircraft within its category. These engines were also specifically chosen for their optimal performance on key routes for Qatar Airways and environmental design specifications.

The exterior of the aircraft comprises a weight-efficient airframe made from advanced composite materials paired with an all-new carbon fibre reinforced plastic fuselage, which helps in lowering fuel burn. Complementing this design are tapered wings capable of changing shape throughout the flight, which allows the plane to travel at an unbelievably fast cruise speed of Mach 0.85.

LUXURY IN THE SKIES
What truly differentiates the A350 XWB, however, would be the use of state-of-the-art equipment designed for the optimal comfort of its passengers. The cabin itself is fitted with the latest high-precision air management system, which helps to both purify and refresh stagnant cabin air. The cabin is also integrated with full LED mood lighting, meant to help reduce the hideous effects of jetlag. This unique combination and special attention to detail was specifically added by Qatar Airways to ensure that all passengers on board the A350 XWB will feel completely rested upon arrival at their destination.

Where the airline’s personal touch truly shines is the various amenities located within the cabin of the A350 XWB. Stepping onboard this aircraft, passengers will immediately be able to comprehend what ‘space in the skies’ truly means. Those seated in Business Class will be able to select from 36 seats in a 1-2-1 configuration. Each of these spacious seats – crafted using the finest Frette linen – can recline into 80” fully flat beds, ensuring maximum comfort for those extra-long flights. Passengers will also have access to ample storage space options for securing their belongings, which includes supersized cabins located overhead.

For in-flight entertainment, passengers can select from over 1,000 options – which include the latest blockbuster movies, documentaries and television shows – while viewing them in high definition on the 17” Thales Avant Touch Screen. There’s also an additional touch screen handset that provides a dual-screen viewing option, allowing users to keep tabs on their flight progress without ever having to hit pause. And no worries for those who forget to pack their own headphones, as each seat also includes a noise-cancelling headset.

For those preferring to indulge in their own entertainment, the side console features nifty integrated sockets for plugging personal devices. Qatar Airways also offers WiFi and GSM data services onboard for passengers who wish to stay in touch with the outside world. Additional luxury touches provided for Business Class passengers include exclusive access to a refreshment area stocked with beverages and tasty titbits; personal fine sleeper suits for extra comfort; Giorgio Armani amenity kits; and the chance to sample the pampering Rituals skincare products located within the spacious lavatories.

Of course, no flight with Qatar Airways would be complete without experiencing the its exemplary hospitality services. Hungry passengers will be spoilt for choice by the comprehensive menu that has been specially designed by internationally renowned Michelin-starred chefs Nobu Matsuhisa and Vineet Bhatia, and includes delectable desserts such as handcrafted pastries from French luxury bakery and sweets maker Ladurée.

After a long day of indulging in the finest that Qatar Airways has to offer, resting while travelling thousands of feet above the ground would be easy knowing that the airline’s award-winning cabin crew will always be on hand to anticipate your every need.

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT
As a global launch customer for the A350 XWB, Qatar Airways will be the only airline to fly this aircraft type for the foreseeable future. As Akbar reveals: “We are ready to commence operations with the A350 XWB and are delighted to introduce another level of service with our expanded fleet.”

The first A350 XWB aircraft will operate a daily flight to Frankfurt from Doha’s new hub, Hamad International Airport. As for routes to Malaysia, Qatar Airways intends to increase the number of flights to four per day sometime in late-2015. Now, these are journeys we can all definitely look forward to planning.