Qatar Airways has continued its expansion into Africa with the launch of services to its 12th new destination this year, Eritrean capital Asmara. |
Launched on December 4, the new route will provide passengers to and from Eritrea with two weekly flights connecting Asmara via Doha to more than 140 destinations around the world.
Qatar Airways celebrated the new destination launch with a VIP reception in Asmara. It was attended by more than 200 guests, including ministers, ambassadors and the corporate and travel trade industry.
The reception was hosted by Qatar Airways chief commercial officer Marwan Koleilat, who extended a warm welcome to the guests.
“Qatar Airways is proud to be the first five-star airline to launch non-stop flights to Asmara and the commencement of our services here is another example of Qatar Airways’ commitment to opening up access to markets that we believe have great potential,” said Koleilat.
On behalf of Qatar Airways Group chief executive Akbar al-Baker, Koleilat thanked government officials, airport authorities and the travel trade in Asmara who supported the new service.
Qatar and Eritrea have enjoyed excellent collaboration and share a long-standing relationship. Strategically located by the Red Sea, the economy of Eritrea has experienced considerable growth in recent years as the country has capitalised on its extensive deposits of natural resources. At the same time, Asmara has much to offer to the leisure traveller, being a city steeped in rich architecture and culture.
“The start of our five-star services to Eritrea signifies our commitment to opening our doors for even stronger business ties and supporting greater commercial development with the international business community,” added Koleilat.
At the VIP reception, guests enjoyed entertainment from a mix of international jazz musicians and traditional Oud music from Qatar. The evening culminated with a grand finale raffle draw, where guests had a chance to win two prizes of business and economy class tickets to any of the 146 worldwide destinations of Qatar Airways.
The Doha-Asmara route is operated with an Airbus A320, offering up to 144 seats in a two-class configuration of 12 seats in business class and up to 132 seats in economy.