Qatar reaches new air service agreement with EU
Qatar, the richest country in the world per capita, has concluded a comprehensive air service agreement with the European Union, the chief executive of state-owned Qatar Airways announced today.
Speaking at an aviation summit in Doha, Akbar Al Baker said Qatar was the first country in the Gulf region to reach such a deal with the EU.
It means that European airlines no longer be forced to have a local sales agent in order to operate flights to Qatar.
"We have taken bold steps by agreeing to articles on fair competition, social aspects, business practices, and transparency," Akbar al-Baker said at the CAPA summit.
"Qatar has committed to offer a fair and friendly business environment and as a result European airlines will enjoy unrestricted commercial opportunities unlike ever before," he added.
Meanwhile, Qatar will put on an extra afternoon flight between Edinburgh and Doha in April to cater for high Easter demand. It will offer a double-daily service on Mondays throughout the month.
Three additional afternoon flights will also be added for the summer when the airline will operate a double daily service.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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