Qatar Airways has become the first airline in the Middle East to achieve platinum status in the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Fast Travel Programme.
This is in recognition of the airline’s success with using innovative technology to provide passengers with quick and convenient air travel, according to a statement.
Qatar Airways executive vice-president Mohsen Alyafei received the accolade on behalf of the airline’s Group chief executive, Akbar al-Baker, yesterday from IATA director (passenger) Pierre Charbonneau at Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha, where the airline is hosting the Passenger Experience Management Group.
The airline met IATA’s highest Fast Travel standard by implementing self-service systems that address worldwide passenger demands for more choice, convenience and control over their travel experience.
“Qatar Airways uses new technologies, from kiosks to mobile apps, to offer a range of self-serve channels enabling passengers to check in, print Q-tag baggage labels at home and access quick bag drop facilities worldwide, scan their own travel documents, re-book flights, self-board and report missing bags online,” the statement noted.
Al-Baker said, “Qatar Airways is the first airline in the Middle East to achieve IATA’s platinum accolade, and only the sixth airline in the world to accomplish this high-level standard since the Fast Travel Programme’s foundation. This is a significant achievement for the airline and furthers our ambition to redefine the passenger experience.”
The airline industry’s Fast Travel initiative comprises six criteria and three standards; green, gold and platinum. Qatar Airways has achieved platinum status for offering various self-service facilities to more than 80% of its passengers travelling through its hub, Hamad International Airport, and across its global network.
In 2014, Qatar Airways received the Fast Travel green status for streamlining its travel processes, and became the first airline in the region to enable passengers to print baggage tags at home.
IATA’s senior vice-president for airport, passenger, cargo and security, Nick Careen, said: “Qatar Airways’ ongoing efforts and innovative solutions mean that more than 80% of its passengers are now offered solutions that enable them to
manage their own journey.”