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.

Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways Plans to Offer Complimentary Starlink Internet Details Yet to Be Disclosed

Published

5 months ago

March 29, 2024

Admin

Qatar Airways Plans to Offer Complimentary Starlink Internet Details Yet to Be Disclosed. In a recent development, Qatar Airways, a long-standing user of Inmarsat-now-Viasat Global Xpress (GX) Ka-band satellite-based inflight connectivity service, has indicated its intention to offer SpaceX’s Starlink Aviation onboard Internet to its passengers on a complimentary basis. This offering will be accessible to passengers with a simple “one-click” process.

Rollout on Specific Aircraft and Routes

According to an official press release from Qatar Airways, the low-latency In-Flight Connectivity (IFC) service will be introduced on “specific aircraft and routes.” The airline has also mentioned that they are currently in the pre-launch phase of the rollout strategy in collaboration with Starlink. SpaceX Vice President of Starlink Commercial Sales, Jonathan Hofeller, has expressed that Starlink is “set to support the entire Qatar Airways fleet.”

This news emerged following the APEX/IFSA Global EXPO event in Long Beach, where Qatar Airways Group’s Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award. During this event, Starlink executives met with airline representatives in a nearby hotel.

Changing Landscape in In-Flight Connectivity

The Qatar Airways-Starlink collaboration signifies a shift in the in-flight connectivity landscape. Traditional GEO satellites are being challenged by Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations like SpaceX’s Starlink. For example, Flexjet has announced plans to replace the Viasat hardware on some of its aircraft with Starlink.

Viasat acquisition of Inmarsat, coupled with these changes, has led to some Inmarsat value-added resellers reevaluating their positions. SITA, a service provider to Qatar Airways, has already disclosed its intention to exit the cabin connectivity market by January 2025.

Seeking Clarity from Qatar Airways

Runway Girl Network reached out to Qatar Airways to seek clarification on several points. They inquired about:

Qatar Airways plan regarding the replacement of Inmarsat (now Viasat) GX inflight connectivity hardware with Starlink.
Whether Starlink will be deployed across Qatar Airways’ entire fleet.
Commencement dates for supplemental type certifications and Starlink installations.
Which aircraft type will be the first to receive the new hardware.
The impact of SITA’s decision to cease being a GX value-added reseller on Qatar Airways’ decision to select Starlink.
Qatar Airways’ plans for continuing to roll out Inmarsat GX on its 787-9s.

Qatar Airways Response

In response to these queries, a Qatar Airways spokesperson stated via email that they would keep Runway Girl Network updated on any future operational developments. In a follow-up exchange, when further clarity on the deal was sought, the spokesperson requested the removal of a specific phrase from their press release.

Implications and Future Plans

In the absence of comprehensive details, it seems logical for Qatar Airways to consider introducing Starlink initially on its 787-8s. This fleet has seen recent in-seat In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) upgrades but still lacks true broadband connectivity.

Once Starlink is operational on Qatar Airways aircraft, passengers can anticipate complimentary access to ultra-fast Wi-Fi speeds of up up to 350 Mbps, which can be used for various Internet-based services including video streaming, gaming, web browsing, and more. In contrast, the airline presently charges $10 for inflight access to its ‘Super Wi-Fi.

Conclusion

Qatar Airways, in its press release, also proudly asserts its position as “the largest airline to collaborate with Starlink.” Other notable Starlink customers include Part 135 operator JSX, Hawaiian Airlines (launch delayed until early next year), airBaltic, and ZIPAIR.