Qatar's new international airport begins operations today

 The national carrier Qatar Airways touched down just a few moments after midnight, marking the inauguration of the stunning new airport.

Speaking on the occasion, H.E. Abdulaziz Al Noaimi, Chairman of the NDIA Steering Committee said: “It is indeed a proud moment for aviation in the State of Qatar. In the 1950s, we created history by building runways — a milestone that forever transformed the way people traveled across the Gulf region and provided a window to the world for our country. Nearly six decades later, the State of Qatar marks yet another milestone with the opening of a brand new airport. This spectacular state-of-art airport will create new benchmarks in passenger travel and convenience. It is the fulfillment of our Emir's vision to establish a world-class gateway to the world, one that will support the country's booming growth and be on par with global developments and demands. We, the members of the NDIA Steering Committee, are proud to have been a part of the transformation of this vision into reality.”

The Hamad International Airport is one of the world's most technologically advanced airports, purpose-built to serve the latest advancements in aviation and passenger needs of the 21 st century. In its first phase, the airport will receive ten passenger airlines that will take off and land on the eastern runway, one of the longest commercial runways in the world, measuring 4850meters.

“I am delighted to welcome ten airlines as our launch carriers – carriers who will share a piece of our history with their landings and take-offs today at the stunning Hamad International Airport. I am confident that it will be an experience that is enjoyable beyond any expectations. To all arriving and departing passengers, I extend a very warm welcome and feel truly privileged that each one of you is part of our illustrious history that we are writing today”, continued Al Noaimi.

Bernardo Gogna, Director, NDIA Steering Committee added: “Today, with the opening of the Hamad International Airport, we are honoured to be a part of this historic moment. And we wish to acknowledge the hard work and effort of all the companies, design firms, contractors, architects and our amazing workforce of over 50,000 people from all over the world who came together to work as a team to fulfil the creative blueprint of the NDIA Steering Committee. Without this teamwork and dedication, such a world-class facility could not have been possible.”