Qatar Airways debut in Medan caps successful Qatar-Indonesia 2023 Cultural Year

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

On Monday, January 15, 2024, Qatar Airways successfully inaugurated its new flight route from Doha to Medan, marking Medan as the airline’s third destination in Indonesia. This direct service, operated by the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, with 22 Business Class seats and 232 Economy Class seats, enhances Qatar Airways’ extensive network of over 170 destinations worldwide.

The inaugural flight, QR966, landed at Kualanamu International Airport, where passengers were warmly welcomed by a water cannon salute and high-ranking government officials and dignitaries. The event was attended by His Excellency the Minister of State President of Qatar National Library, Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kawari, representing the State of Qatar. This inaugural flight to Medan complements Qatar Airways’ existing over 40 weekly flights to Jakarta and Bali.

The launch event, organized in collaboration with the ‘Years of Culture,’ celebrated the successful conclusion of the Qatar-Indonesia 2023 Year of Culture. This initiative aimed to strengthen cultural, educational, and sports ties between the two nations through more than 50 programs. Notable guests at the inaugural event included the Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Republic of Indonesia, HE Ms. Fawziya Edrees Salman Al-Sulaiti, Indonesian Ambassador to Qatar, H.E Ridwan Hassan, and Medan Mayor Mr. Muhammad Bobby Afif.

During the gala dinner, Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kawari expressed gratitude for the success of the Qatar-Indonesia 2023 Year of Culture, emphasizing the new Doha-Medan route as a testament to the enduring connections established between the two nations.

Qatar Airways Group CEO, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, highlighted the airline’s commitment to enhancing connectivity, offering world-class travel experiences, and expanding its global network. Mr. Marwan Koleilat, Qatar Airways Senior Vice President for Eastern Regions, underscored the airline’s dedication to the Indonesian market, connecting travellers to over 170 destinations via Hamad International Airport.

Mr. Achmad Rifai, President Director for PT Angkasa Pura 2, expressed pride in Kualanamu International Airport being chosen for the new route, facilitating global connections and creating opportunities for international air freight transport from Medan.

The flight schedule to Medan includes departures from Doha (DOH) every Monday, Thursday, and Saturday at 02:40, arriving in Medan (KNO) at 13:30. Return flights from Medan to Doha (DOH) operate on the same days, departing at 19:00 and arriving at 22:15. The inaugural flight featured a curated Indonesian menu, showcasing the diverse flavors of the region in both Business and Economy Classes, along with exclusive giveaways at departure and arrival gates.

Medan, as the capital and largest city of North Sumatra, offers a unique blend of cultural diversity, scenic beauty, and economic vitality, attracting both business and leisure travelers alike. Qatar Airways looks forward to providing seamless connections for travelers to experience the best of Medan and beyond.

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