Qatar Airways will deploy its first A380 onto its Doha to London Heathrow route from June 17, it was announced today.
The Gulf airline, which has 13 superjumbos on order, revealed it would fly the A380 to LHR when it debuted its first class cabin at last month's ITB trade fair in Berlin (see news, March 5).
Confirmation of the launch date comes as Doha's Hamad International Airport finally opens to passenger traffic this week (see news, April 25).
Qatar's new A380 first class cabin
Qatar Airways will fit out its A380s in a three-class configuration of first, business and economy over two decks. The new first class A380 seat features a 90-inch seat pitch, transforming into a fully-flat bed.
Akbar Al Baker, CEO of Qatar Airways, said: "It is a significant moment in our airline's history to welcome these aircraft into our rapidly expanding fleet.
"Operating on the Doha to London Heathrow route, these aircraft, with their customised cabins, will set a new level of comfort for our passengers, who will also benefit from a smooth and pleasant passenger experience at the world's newest airport, Hamad International Airport, the soon to be opened new home of Qatar Airways."
Graham Smith