Qatar Airways will upgauge its Doha–Guangzhou service by replacing the incumbent B777-300ER with the A380 from July 1.
The aircraft change will result in a significant capacity increase, with the superjumbo offering a total of 517 seats – 159 more than the B777-300ER. Furthermore, the A380 will feature a three-class configuration, with eight seats in first, 48 in business and 461 in economy. In comparison, the B777-300ER (358 seats) only has a two-class layout.
Business class on the A380
In terms of passenger comfort, the superjumbo offers significantly better cabin products than the Boeing aircraft. Unlike the 2-2-2 business class layout on the B777, the A380’s business product is arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring direct aisle access to all customers.
The A380 also comes with an onboard bar, accessible for both first and business class passengers. The concept – pioneered by Gulf rival Emirates – provides guests with a selection of drinks and canapés throughout their flight.
Service times will remain unchanged. Flight QR874 will depart Doha at 0230 and arrive in Guangzhou at 1530. The return flight QR875 will then take off from Guangzhou at 0055 and touch back down in Doha at 0400.
“This year marks our eighth anniversary of operations in Guangzhou and we are delighted to celebrate this milestone by introducing our bespoke A380 aircraft, reaffirming our long-standing commitment to China,” said Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways’ chief executive.
“The Pearl River Delta region is one of China’s most vibrant trade and travel hubs and we have witnessed steady passenger growth both to and from Guangzhou over the years.”
For more information, visit qatarairways.com
Clement Huang
Business class on the A380
In terms of passenger comfort, the superjumbo offers significantly better cabin products than the Boeing aircraft. Unlike the 2-2-2 business class layout on the B777, the A380’s business product is arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring direct aisle access to all customers.
The A380 also comes with an onboard bar, accessible for both first and business class passengers. The concept – pioneered by Gulf rival Emirates – provides guests with a selection of drinks and canapés throughout their flight.
Service times will remain unchanged. Flight QR874 will depart Doha at 0230 and arrive in Guangzhou at 1530. The return flight QR875 will then take off from Guangzhou at 0055 and touch back down in Doha at 0400.
“This year marks our eighth anniversary of operations in Guangzhou and we are delighted to celebrate this milestone by introducing our bespoke A380 aircraft, reaffirming our long-standing commitment to China,” said Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways’ chief executive.
“The Pearl River Delta region is one of China’s most vibrant trade and travel hubs and we have witnessed steady passenger growth both to and from Guangzhou over the years.”
For more information, visit qatarairways.com
Clement Huang 
