Qatar Airways starts flights to Kilimanjaro

Qatar Airways has further expanded operations in Africa with yesterday’s launch of daily scheduled flights to Kilimanjaro – its 18th gateway on the diverse continent and second destination in Tanzania. Operating via the Tanzanian capital of Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro takes Qatar Airways’ global network up to 118 destinations and also marks yet another move by the Doha-based airline into under served markets. Flight QR546 arrived at Kilimanjaro International Airport to an impressive water salute performed by the local fire service. The arrival was followed by a colourful welcome by traditional Tanzanian dancers and an airport ceremony attended by over 80 people, including local dignitaries, airport officials, local and international media. Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer Marwan Koleilat officiated at the ceremony on behalf of the airline, travelling on the inaugural flight from Doha. Guest of honour in Kilimanjaro was Tanzania’s Minister of Transport, Dr Harrison Mwakyembe. Other distinguished guests included, Tanzania’s Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Hamisi Kagasheki and Tanzania’s Civil Aviation Authority Director General Fadhili Manongi. Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar al -Baker said that Africa had been long on the radar of the company’s planning team as the region was highly under served with a lack of international air services. “Kilimanjaro signifies the importance Qatar Airways places in looking at airports around the world where capacity is limited, yet passenger demand is strong,” he said. “We are pleased to be reinforcing our presence in Africa with the addition of scheduled flights to Tanzania’s tourism centre of Kilimanjaro, home to Mount Kilimanjaro, allowing us to further develop our business on the African continent. “Kilimanjaro is an established tourist centre and is also fast emerging as a growing economic centre, thanks to its abundant wildlife, natural scenic beauty and natural resources. We have great confidence in the Tanzanian travel market ever since we launched flights to Dar es Salaam in 2007.” Addressing guests at the airport ceremony in Kilimanjaro, Koleilat said: “I would like to thank the Tanzanian government and officials at Kilimanjaro International Airport for the warm welcome and supporting our newest route launch.  “The exposure of Kilimanjaro to the world through Qatar Airways’ global network will enable Tanzania to attract even more tourists and businesses alike.” Qatar Airways already has a successful operation to Dar es Salaam and Nairobi with double daily flights to both capital cities, as well as daily services to Entebbe in Uganda and the Rwandan capital Kigali. Qatar Airways now operates 49 flights each week across four East African countries. The Doha – Kilimanjaro route is operated with an Airbus A320 aircraft in a two-class configuration of 12 seats in Business Class and 132 in Economy. The airline’s African expansion will go a step further on October 31 with the launch of scheduled flights to Maputo in Mozambique, operating thrice-weekly from Doha via Johannesburg. From gulftimes