Qatar Airways

Competition Watchdog Advocates for Qatar Airways Expansion to Lower Airfares

Published

5 months ago

March 29, 2024

Admin

Competition Watchdog Advocates for Qatar Airways Expansion to Lower Airfares. The Competition Watchdog in Australia has argued that allowing Qatar Airways to increase its weekly flights at Australian airports would have led to lower airfares. This comes as pressure mounts on the government to reconsider its decision to block the airline’s expansion. Check Latest news about Qatar Airways.

Government Decision to Block Expansion

The government had previously prevented Qatar Airways from adding 21 weekly flights at Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane airports, citing national interest and the need to protect the viability of the national carrier, Qantas.

Growing Scrutiny and Calls for Review

However, this decision has faced growing scrutiny, with aviation groups and former heads of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) criticizing the government’s reasoning. Former treasurer Wayne Swan, now Labor’s national president, has called for a review of the decision in light of recent accusations against Qantas.

ACCC Support for Qatar Airways Expansion

The head of the ACCC, Gina Cass-Gottlieb, has echoed the sentiment of her predecessors in supporting Qatar Airways’ expansion as a means to reduce airfares. She stated that it would have been welcomed and acknowledged that it could have potentially lowered prices, citing Virgin Australia’s estimate of a 40% reduction.

Penalties for Qantas

In addition to the debate over Qatar Airways, the ACCC has also announced its plans to pursue penalties of over $250 million against Qantas for selling tickets for ghost flights. The consumer watchdog alleges that Qantas continued to advertise and sell thousands of tickets for flights that had already been canceled in its system between May and July 2022.

Qantas Controversies

Qantas has faced a series of controversies in recent months, including holding millions of dollars’ worth of COVID-era flight credits and accusations of taking advantage of customers and staff.

Government’s Stance on Protecting Viability

Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones clarified that the government’s decision to block Qatar Airways’ expansion was based on the national interest and ensuring the viability of the national carrier. Opposition parties and independent senator David Pocock are pushing for more information regarding the decision.

Calls for Document Release

The Senate bloc intends to move for the release of documents provided to the transport minister related to the decision, though the government may refuse on certain grounds.

Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways Cargo Celebrating 20 Years of Success

Published

5 months ago

March 29, 2024

Admin

Qatar Airways Cargo Celebrating 20 Years of Success. In 2023, Qatar Airways Cargo proudly marks two decades of dedicated freighter operations. This remarkable journey began in 1997 when Qatar Airways launched its cargo division, initially staffed by just five dedicated cargo professionals. At the outset, they capitalized on leased passenger planes to sell cargo space.

Since then, the airline has evolved significantly, growing from a single converted Airbus A300-600 freighter in 2003 to an impressive fleet of 31 freighter aircraft in 2023. Qatar Airways Cargo has held the coveted title of the world’s largest cargo carrier since 2019.

A Global Reach

Qatar Airways Cargo’s expansion has been extraordinary. The airline initiated regular operations to key destinations like Amsterdam, Chennai, and New Delhi, and today, it serves more than 160 belly-hold destinations alongside over 70 freighter destinations.

The fleet consists of two Boeing 747-8 freighters, two Boeing 747-400 freighters, 26 Boeing 777 freighters, and one Airbus A310 freighter. In addition, they’ve established an extensive road feeder service (RFS) network, enhancing their connectivity and reach.

Setting Global Standards

Qatar Airways Cargo is not only about scale but also quality. The company has made substantial investments in its products, services, quality handling, infrastructure, facilities, personnel, and procedures at each of its destinations, ensuring high operating standards for cargo transportation.

These efforts have been recognized through the International Air Transport Association (IATA) statistics, positioning Qatar Airways as a dominant player in the air cargo industry.

Facing Market Challenges

Qatar Airways Cargo acknowledges the challenges posed by the ever-evolving global air cargo market. The market conditions are indeed demanding, but with their extensive network, they embrace these challenges creatively.

The airline is dedicated to outperforming market expectations through innovative strategies and enhanced capacities.

The Next Generation Strategy

With the introduction of its “Next Generation” strategy, Qatar Airways Cargo redefines its role in the air cargo industry. The strategy incorporates fresh and innovative approaches to business operations, emphasizing superior products and services, cutting-edge technology, commitment to sustainability, and diversity.

Qatar Airways Cargo has achieved several milestones under this strategy, including IATA CEIV certifications, the launch of the Kigali Africa hub in partnership with RwandAir, and the introduction of innovative products like Pharma, Fresh, Courier, SecureLift, and the relaunch of its Mail product.

Strategic Partnerships

In recent times, Qatar Airways Cargo has solidified strategic partnerships with key shippers and forwarders to secure long-term capacity arrangements.

Notably, their collaboration with global freight forwarder DSV has created a direct scheduled service between Huntsville in the United States and Doha, providing 200 tonnes of weekly cargo capacity.

Expanding Horizons

Qatar Airways Cargo continues to expand its global reach. Their commitment to providing enhanced digital services, accessible through multiple channels, has been a significant area of investment and growth. With a focus on user experience and ease of use, they empower customers to price and book cargo shipments with personalized, real-time pricing, facilitated by AI-powered optimization solutions.

A Promising Future

Despite the challenges posed by the global air cargo market, Qatar Airways Cargo remains committed to providing high-quality services and innovative solutions. As they continue to expand and adapt, the future looks promising, and they aim to play a pivotal role in the air freight industry.