In line with the increasing demand for travel and the easing of restrictions imposed on entry by many countries, Qatar Airways (QA) said it would gradually resume its flights to several major cities and the headquarters of its airline partners around the world.

Earlier this month, Qatar Airways said it would increase operations to a total of 80 destinations by the end of June, “in line with the expected relaxation of entry restrictions around the world”.

Qatar Airways is currently flying to more than 30 destinations, and in what it calls a “phased rebuilding” of its network, the airline said it intends to increase this to 52 destinations by the end of this month, before adding a further 30-odd routes by the end of June.

Suspended routes will be gradually reinstated, and additional frequencies will also be added to key destinations and partner hubs. The initial focus will be on strengthening connections between Doha and the global hubs of partner airlines in London, Chicago, Dallas and Hong Kong, as well as reopening flights to “many major business and leisure destinations such as Madrid and Mumbai”.

QA strikes partnership with UNHCR
Qatar Airways has announced a two-year partnership with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency to supply humanitarian relief and assistance to the displaced globally. The partnership, which is a first between both organisations, will involve a strategic collaboration whereby Qatar Airways will support those in need with the delivery of crucial aid supplies.

The Qatar Airways agreement with UNHCR will deliver support, including water, medical care and hygiene materials for refugees and displaced people.

The agreement, which was signed in Doha, will be effective through to May 2022. It will see UNHCR work closely with Qatar Airways to use the airline’s hub-and spoke network out of Hamad International Airport. By having access to a fleet of more than 200 aircraft, UNHCR will be able to deliver support including water, medical care and hygiene materials to keep refugees, internally displaced people and host community members safe around the world.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker said: “We are incredibly proud to join efforts with UNHCR to provide relief aid to people and communities most in need. By having a robust international network, we are pleased to be able to give a helping hand to support this great cause. During this crisis, we have worked closely with governments and NGOs to prioritise the shipment of medical and aid supplies transporting over 175,000 tonnes, the equivalent of approximately 1,750 fully loaded Boeing 777 freighters. We are committed to making a difference and by working together, we are confident we will overcome the current adversities with strength, solidarity and resilience.”

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