The first Airbus A380 super jumbo to be ordered by Qatar Airways has been delivered to the Gulf carrier.
The airline will introduce the A380 on one of its frequencies on the Doha–London route from next month, followed by Paris Charles De Gaulle.
The 517-seat double decker aircraft is configured with eight first class seats, 48 in business class and 461 in economy.
Qatar Airways is preparing to take delivery of four of A380s before the end of this year as part of an order for 10 of the aircraf
First class seats on the A380 feature a 90-inch pitch with a fully flat bed while those in business class have a 52 inch pitch and can also recline to fully flat beds.
Economy passengers have “the most spacious A380 arrangement flying in the skies”, with a pitch of 32 inches spread in a ten-seats-across layout.
The airline’s chief executive Akbar Al Baker said: “This has been a moment more than a decade in the making and we are so delighted to unveil a new passenger experience for our travellers.
“The A380 that we are introducing is not just any A380; we have completely designed every element, giving it a signature touch that has never been seen before on board.
“Additionally, the newly opened Hamad international airport, the airline’s hub in Doha, has been specifically created with the A380 in mind, with five contact gates dedicated only for this aircraft, making the experience smooth and effortless for passengers.”
“At Qatar Airways we pay careful consideration to all elements of the passenger experience and are regularly introducing innovations that make a travel experience what it should be – enjoyable and something to look forward to.”