Qatar Airways is set to reintroduce First Class by unveiling a new cabin, a departure from its previous intention to remove this premium offering. CEO Badr Mohammed Al Meer has disclosed that the development of the new First Class product is nearing completion, signaling an imminent launch.
This strategic shift represents a significant change, considering the skepticism expressed by the former CEO just last year regarding the necessity of First Class.
The upcoming First Class cabin is poised to deliver a premium experience, with pricing anticipated to align with the current First-Class option available on the airline’s A380 aircraft.
Leveraging the success of its QSuite business class and drawing upon expertise from its Qatar Executive private jet division, Qatar Airways aims to craft a top-tier first-class experience. The CEO has emphasized the commitment to maintaining the high standards established by the airline’s other premium offerings.
The new First Class cabin will merge commercial and private jet flying elements. Qatar Airways reports being 70% to 80% complete with the design, with final touches, particularly on color schemes, underway. While an official release date is yet to be announced, an imminent announcement is expected.
Although specific aircraft featuring the new First Class cabin have not been disclosed, Qatar Airways is contemplating orders from Airbus and Boeing for new large aircraft. This suggests the potential for the new cabin to be tailored across various aircraft types.
In the interim, Qatar Airways continues to offer First Class on select Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft. These existing First Class suites boast ample stowage space and ultra-comfortable, fully lie-flat beds, albeit not reflecting the new design currently in development.
