Elite Traveler Spring 2021

SPONSORED

QATAR EXECUTIVE: A NEWHORIZON

non-stop from the Middle East to North America, or from destinations in Asia to Africa. In 2020, there was a 30% increase on flights onboard the G650ER compared to 2019. Qatar Executive’s fleet also includes the Bombardier Global 5000 and Global Express XRS. While 2019, 2020 and 2021 have been challenging for many, Qatar Executive is looking optimistically to the future — specifically, the FIFA World Cup, to be held in Qatar in 2022. The event will bring long-term exposure to the city, though the event also presents a few logistical challenges. “We have already been organizing flights for the 2022 World Cup, leveraging our existing relationships as well as exploring new opportunities for both pre- and post-World Cup 2022,” explains Khalil. “We have various packages available through selected partners working with Qatar Executive that will re-create the same VVIP experience that matches our onboard flying experience.” For more information visit qatarexec.com.qa

The year 2020 changed the world in ways none of us could have possibly imagined. Travel came to a complete standstill at times as countries went into lockdown, leaving some travelers stranded and unable to fly. A number of airlines grounded their planes and stopped operating — but Qatar Executive experienced a surge in demand. Based in Doha, Qatar Executive is a leading provider of jet aircraft charter services (including aircraft management, maintenance and a full range of FBO services); it continued to operate throughout 2020. The airline adapted and implemented new hygiene and safety measures, and worked tirelessly to help passengers: “We worked closely with our award-winning parent airline, Qatar Airways, using Doha as a hub to connect passengers to destinations no longer serviced by commercial schedules, many of which were for specific companies needing to get people in and out of destinations,” explains Captain Husam Khalil, Acting Executive Vice President. “We have experienced a big growth in demand versus the

same quarter last year and have been flying significantly more hours per month than last year.” Qatar Executive has seen an average of 60% increase in bookings during 2020 versus 2019, and December 2020 was its best month ever in both flying hours and revenue. The company has also seen an increase of ad-hoc business as a result of pricing instability in the market and clients not wanting to lock into fixed hourly rates. Qatar Executive has an impressive fleet of luxurious and high-performing business jets, and is the largest commercial operator worldwide for the Gulfstream G650ER. The G650ER is the fastest ultra-long-range business jet in the world and is one of the most coveted aircraft among the global traveling elite, due to its phenomenal range capabilities, industry-leading cabin technology and unparalleled passenger comfort. The Qatar Executive G650ER aircraft can fly at a faster speed for longer distances than any jet of its kind with its incredible 7,500 nautical mile range — it is capable of flying