Perth, Scotland to Perth, Australia is nearer than ever before, with Qatar Airways' new direct route from Edinburgh via Doha.
The sleek and stylish Boeing Dreamliner 787 will touch down at Edinburgh Airport on 28th May 2014, to launch the start of Qatar's scheduled service between Scotland’s capital and Doha, Qatar.
The new direct route to the Middle East will offer travellers easy onward flights from Doha to key cities across Asia and Australia.
The 5 star Qatar Airlines – part of the oneworld Alliance - will introduce this non-stop service, initially five days at week, year round – with a flight time of less than seven hours. With quick connection times, the flight from Edinburgh to Perth and Melbourne via Doha, will be just 20 hours.
The press conference at the Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh on Tuesday 25th March was introduced by Qatar Airlines’ chief executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker:
"The start of services from Edinburgh to Doha not only offers travellers access to the Middle East but also a quicker journey time to Asia, India and Australasia … it will also attract significant business and trade links for those wishing to travel to Edinburgh from all corners of the world."
When asked why Edinburgh was selected for this new route to Doha, he replied that Emirates already offers a direct route from Glasgow to Dubai.
"We don't like to follow people, we like to lead people to go to new places!” he added with a broad smile.
The Dreamliner 787 is the world’s newest aircraft and passengers can expect spacious comfort and first class hospitality. In Economy Class, excellent Audio/film choice and full complimentary meal service.
The Business Class cabin offers flat bed seating, 17 inch TVs with an extensive entertainment system and fine cuisine. The newly expanded airport at Doha welcomes 30 million passengers a year, with state of the art design and facilities.
The Edinburgh-Doha route will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. This may be extended in due course.
Qatar Airlines operates one of the youngest fleets in the world, with 131 aircraft currently serving 136 worldwide destinations. Airline of the Year, 2011 and 2012, and runner up, 2013.