DOHA- Qatar Airways (QR) experiences robust passenger demand on its United States (US) routes, contradicting the downward trend reported by several competing carriers.
CEO Badr Mohammed Al Meer revealed this market strength during a recent interview at the Qatar Economic Forum held at Hamad International Airport (DOH).
Photo: Qatar AirwaysQatar Airways US Flights Demand
Al Meer highlighted the airline’s impressive load factors of 86-87% on American routes, with April displaying historically high passenger numbers. This success stands in stark contrast to declining interest reported by other international carriers serving U.S. destinations, AirlineGeeks reported.
“It’s the contrary in our case… But we see very high demand all over our network, especially in the United States… And we can see this continuing in May and in June. So we are not experiencing this lower interest.”
Badr Mohammed Al Meer, CEO, Qatar Airways
The CEO’s comments reflect Qatar Airways’ ability to maintain a strong market position even as industry peers struggle with reduced demand for transatlantic travel.
Photo: By Riik@mctr; Wikimedia CommonsGlobal Challenges
Al Meer acknowledged that recent global tariffs have impacted Qatar Airways’ operations. This affects the carrier’s supply chain and cargo sectors. Despite these headwinds, the airline demonstrates remarkable resilience.
“We have gone through a lot at Qatar Airways, and we have proven over and over that we are a resilient airline,” he emphasised, referencing the carrier’s history of navigating complex global challenges.
This resilience appears to be paying dividends across the entire Qatar Airways (QR) network. The CEO reported strong passenger demand, not limited to American routes but extending throughout their global service map.
Photo: Qatar AirwaysStrong Financial Performance
The interview revealed Qatar Airways’ exceptional financial trajectory, with Al Meer announcing imminent record-breaking profits. The airline plans to release official figures in the coming weeks, but early indications suggest extraordinary results.
“Last year, [we saw] record-breaking profit for Qatar Airways. This year, we will break our record again, but not by a small margin. I’m not talking about 1 to 5%, but much higher than this.”
Badr Mohammed Al Meer, CEO, Qatar Airways
These financial projections demonstrate Qatar Airways’ ability to convert its operational success into bottom-line performance, bucking industry trends during a period of economic uncertainty.
Photo: By Juke Schweizer; Wikimedia CommonsFleet Expansion
Qatar Airways (QR) maintains an aggressive fleet modernization strategy with ongoing aircraft deliveries strengthening its operational capabilities. The carrier continues to receive Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, enhancing its long-haul capacity.
Al Meer confirmed upcoming deliveries of Airbus A321neo aircraft for medium-haul routes, while expressing anticipation for the Boeing 777X, expected to join the fleet in late 2026 or early 2027 pending certification.
Photo: Clément AlloingForthcoming Aircraft Orders
The CEO revealed that Qatar Airways (QR) stands on the verge of announcing a significant widebody aircraft order.
The airline currently evaluates competing proposals from both Boeing and Airbus, with a final decision expected within weeks.
This forthcoming order will further cement Qatar Airways’ expansion plans and long-term fleet strategy, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape for global long-haul operations.
The carrier’s willingness to make major fleet investments during uncertain economic times underscores its confidence in continued passenger demand and its long-term growth trajectory, particularly on profitable routes like those serving the United States.
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Qatar Airways has One of the Most Strict Rules for Cabin Crew
The post Qatar Airways Clocking Over 85% Load Factor on US Flights Despite Tariffs appeared first on Aviation A2Z.
