Qatar Airways - Is it really the World's Best Airline?
When FCM team member Sarah recently flew from Brisbane to the (United Kingdom) UK, she was lucky enough to experience Qatar Airways' award-winning service firsthand. Named World’s Best Airline by Skytrax 2024 World Airline Awards and holding awards for Worlds Best Business Class and Best Cabin Crew in the Middle East, Qatar Airways had a lot to live up to (and Sarah's sky-high expectations). Sarah took the multi-leg trip with a mixed-class fare, letting her, and her partner try and compare both economy and business class.
So, did Qatar Airways live up to the hype? Here's her take on the journey.
Pre-Trip
Qatar Airways' app made life easy from the start. With just a few clicks, I could check my flight status, stay up to date, browse the menu (a must-do for foodies like me), and breeze through check-in all from my phone.
Check-In & Boarding
Arriving at Brisbane Airport, I was surprised by the smooth check-in process. As codeshare partners, we could use our Velocity Frequent Flyer Gold membership. Allowing us to skip the regular line and use the Priority self-check-in kiosk and speedy bag drop service.
After passing through the serious stuff and being on the other side of the gates, we could access the lounge (thanks to the Air New Zealand lounge partnership in Brisbane), where we relaxed in comfort and grabbed a bite to eat.
Onboard Economy
Despite being a full flight, the flight departed on-time and landed in Doha ahead of schedule. With a short layover in Doha, there was no time to visit the Qatar Airways Lounge (boo), but we looked forward to walking through those glass doors on our return journey.
From the moment we stepped on board, the cabin crew was all smiles, warm and friendly, ensuring we were comfortable and safe throughout the journey. There was so much choice on the in-flight entertainment. It was hard to choose. By the end of the flight, I still had half my shortlist left and for once in my life, I managed to sleep for a few hours. A feat for someone who usually can't get comfy enough to fall asleep on an aircraft.
Onboard Business Class
After a smooth layover, we were ready for the business class leg from Doha to Edinburgh, flying on Qatar Airways' incredible A350-900. While this particular plane didn't have the famous Qsuite, the fully lie-flat "pods" more than made up for it. The cabin was open and spacious, with plenty of room to move around without disturbing our neighbours.
The crew welcomed us warmly, and after introducing themselves, they ensured we were set up comfortably with a refreshing drink and kept checking on us throughout the flight.
Business class is where Qatar Airways really shines. From Bose noise-cancelling headphones to The White Company PJs and even Diptyque amenity kits, I felt like I was in a luxury hotel, *chef's kiss*.
One of the best parts? À la carte dining on demand. We could choose when and what to eat, which made adjusting to the UK time zone and dietaries easy. Breakfast, lunch, or both—the menu options were restaurant-quality, and the drinks selection was equally impressive.
Lounge
With a few hours to burn on the return trip, we finally got to set foot in the Qatar Airways' Gold Lounge in Doha. This lounge was like nothing else, a peaceful haven in the bustling Hamad International Airport. We headed to the North Lounge in the airport's new Orchard area, where multiple dining and bar options were waiting, including an à la carte section and a buffet. And for those needing a freshen up, the lounge's private shower suites felt like a five-star hotel bathroom.
The Verdict
So, does Qatar Airways live up to the title of "World's Best Airline"? In my experience, absolutely! From seamless check-in to an outstanding onboard experience in both economy and business class, they've raised the bar for international travel. For anyone planning a business trip (or vacay), Qatar Airways has all the boxes ticked: comfort, service, quality food, and a touch of luxury.
Give them a go next time your travels take you abroad, your jet-lagged (or not-so-jet-lagged) self will thank you.
Talk to us about adding Qatar Airways to your travel program.
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