by Donald Wood
Last updated: 11:15 AM ET, Tue October 24, 2023
Qatar Airways announced that longtime chief executive
officer Akbar Al Baker would resign after nearly three decades leading the state-owned
airline.
According to The
Associated Press, Al Baker will turn over the role of CEO on November 5 to Badr
Mohammed Al Meer, who is currently the chief operating officer of Hamad
International Airport in Qatar.
Qatar Airways said that under Al Baker's leadership, the
carrier “has grown to become one of the most recognizable and trusted brands
globally,” pointing out multiple awards among the accolades earned during his
tenure.
“After 27 years of service, I am writing to you to announce
that I will step down from the Qatar Airways Group,” Al Baker said in a statement.
“In 1996, with a fleet of just five aircraft, unwavering
dedication, and a loyal and passionate team, together we embarked on a
remarkable journey to aviation excellence,” Al Baker continued. “From that very
first day, our journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.”
Since Al Baker was appointed CEO, Qatar Airways has become
one of the top international airlines, connecting the East and West. The
outspoken industry veteran also clashed with carriers in the United States and
Europe over trade and labor issues.
In addition, Al Baker also revealed that he would step down as
the country's top tourism official, handing over the role to Saad Ali Al Kharji,
who takes on the title of chairman of Qatar Tourism.
In August, Qatar Airways announced the addition of a third
daily flight from Doha to New York City’s John F. Kennedy International
Airport, starting on October 30.
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