Hamad International Airport (HIA), Qatar’s new world-class gateway to the world, today marked the transfer of all airlines from Doha International Airport (DIA) with passengers receiving celebratory gifts to congratulate them on being part of this important moment in Qatar’s aviation history. Local and international online communities, aviation and travel enthusiasts and future guests at HIA were able to share in the excitement with information on the celebratory activities shared across HIA’s newly launched website and social media channels.
Passengers departing on the first 10 flights from HIA were greeted with roses, dates and Qatari flags to mark its first day of full airline operations. The 10 remaining airlines at DIA have now transferred to Qatar’s new aviation hub, including British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Egyptair, Emirates, Gulf Air, Jet Airways, MEA Middle East Airlines, Turkish Airlines, United Airlines and Qatar Airways, the five-star national airline of the State of Qatar.
Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer, Akbar Al Baker said: “We have marked a significant milestone in the phased opening of HIA as all airlines are now operating from our world-class gateway to the world. We wanted passengers to participate in our excitement for this historic moment, presenting them with gifts as they arrived for their flight and as they become a part of HIA’s seamless travel experience for the first time. This is just a small token of our appreciation for the overwhelmingly positive feedback we have received since HIA opened its doors to guests.” As full operations began, HIA also celebrated the day by introducing its new social media platforms and website.
Positioned at the edge of the Arabian Gulf, the new airport is set in a tranquil waterside setting that provides a perfect backdrop for its stylish architectural elements, underpinned by advanced airport systems. HIA features two runways, among the longest in the world, a state-of-the-art air traffic control tower, a stunning passenger terminal with an initial design capacity of 30 million passengers per year and 8,700 customers per hour, as well as a uniquely shaped public mosque.
Source : Qatar News Agency
