Melbourne gets another UK link

QATAR AIRWAYS is to introduce its first long expected ‘down under’ destination on Sunday 6 December, a date clearly targeted to make the most of what will be the forthcoming holiday season.  The capital of Victoria is very popular from the UK with BA and Qantas well established, Etihad on the route, Emirates adding a third daily flight in February and Air Asia X also linking through.  Virgin is rumoured to be adding the city to its existing Sydney operation.  From its three UK departure points (Gatwick, Heathrow and Manchester) Qatar is emphasizing the quick one hour stop-over in Doha (Perhaps a bit too quick.  The airline has the only dedicated Premier Class terminal in the Middle East – Editor).  Initially three times per week the service will be flown from Doha by a Boeing 777 in a two-class configuration, the airline keen to emphasise the quality of its economy class, 3+3+3 and a 34inch seat pitch.  Asked about the possibility of a premium economy product Paul Johannes, Senior Manager Europe, said: “We think our basic product is better than our competitors’ upgraded service.  We don’t have the need!” www.qatarairways.com

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