Qatar Airways the Biggest Loser in Doha Airport Delay - Middle East Real Time - WSJ

Qatar Airways the Biggest Loser in Doha Airport Delay - Middle East Real Time - WSJ:

"Qatar Airways embarked on a global advertising campaign in 2008 labelling itself ‘The world’s 5-star airline’. But flying with the Gulf carrier and transiting through its Doha hub is now more akin to a budget airline as passengers are ferried in a bus to and from the busy Doha International terminal, which creaks under the weight of over capacity. During the busy summer months, passengers were even being encouraged to turn up at least four hours before departure, just in case of any issues.

And just down the road is Qatar Airway’s saving grace – the shiny new Hamad International Airport, or New Doha International Airport, as it was previously known. This $15 billion new airport plans to manage about 28 million passengers, compared with the 21 million Doha International catered for last year. It is supposed to open with a public mosque, a health spa and two luxurious hotels, both believed to be 5-star. Though perhaps not quite like the airline.

But when will the airport open?"

'via Blog this'