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Qatar Airways manages unprecedented airspace closure with swift response

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Qatar Airways manages unprecedented airspace closure with swift response
Policy
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Geoffrey Thomas Editor-In-Chief - US Bureau Chief | Airline Ratings

Qatar Airways recently faced an unprecedented operational challenge when its national airspace was unexpectedly closed due to a high-security incident. This event required the airline to suspend global operations, affecting its hub at Hamad International Airport and causing significant disruption for passengers and crew.

In response to the crisis, Qatar Airways demonstrated effective coordination and resilience. The Group Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Airways, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, addressed the situation in an open letter, highlighting the efforts made by the airline to manage the disruption. "This week brought an operational crisis few airlines will ever encounter," he stated.

On June 23rd, a missile attack from Iran on Al Udeid Air Base led to airspace closures in Qatar, Bahrain, the UAE, and Kuwait. Over 90 Qatar Airways flights carrying more than 20,000 passengers were forced to divert immediately. The diverted flights landed in various countries including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, India, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates.

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The closure of Qatari airspace also affected over 10,000 passengers already in transit at Hamad International Airport. Many flight crews exceeded their legal operating hours as aircraft were grounded or rerouted across continents.

Once airspace reopened after midnight on June 24th, diverted aircraft began returning to Doha. By Tuesday evening on June 24th, Qatar Airways had operated a total of 390 flights as part of its recovery efforts. "By Tuesday... our operation has stabilised even further," said Al-Meer.

Qatar Airways provided hotel accommodations for over 4,600 customers using approximately 3,200 rooms across Doha. The airline distributed over 35,000 meals and offered comfort kits and support directly to passengers.

The airline's quick recovery reflects its commitment to safety and operational excellence during crises. As Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer expressed gratitude towards passengers and staff: "Faced with an extraordinary challenge... we came together to support our passengers."

Qatar Airways' handling of this situation reinforces its reputation as one of the world's safest airlines.

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