Qatar Airways’ 787 Dreamliner (QR 116) which took off to Dubai yesterday.
DOHA: Qatar Airways yesterday resumed its Boeing 787 services after a worldwide grounding of the aircraft in January.
The airline’s first 787 operated flight QR116 from Doha to Dubai yesterday at 1315 hrs.
The airline’s fleet of five Dreamliners was grounded earlier this year following a directive from both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the US and Qatar’s Civil Aviation Authority.
Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker was the first passenger to board the airline’s reinstated Dreamliner 787, joined by President of Boeing Middle East, Jeffrey Johnson, Boeing’s Deputy Fleet Chief, David Silver, and a delegation of regional and international media.
“I always said I would be the first to fly on Qatar Airways’ 787 once it returned to service, and I’m thrilled that our Dreamliner fleet is back in the skies, providing our passengers with an unparalleled level of service and comfort,” said Al Baker.
“Throughout the grounding of our fleet we have worked closely with Boeing to monitor the situation and work towards getting our fleet up and running again. Safety has always been the No. 1 priority for Qatar Airways and I have full confidence in the safety and security of this aircraft.”
Jeffrey Johnson said: “Today’s flight is a tribute to the spirit of partnership, which led to the solution that made it possible. It is also testament to Qatar Airways’ continued support for the Dreamliner programme and to the strength of its relationship with Boeing.”
The Peninsula
