Qatar Airways has deployed its brand new Airbus A350-1000s on the Doha-London route, marking the entry into service of the world’s newest aircraft.

The five-star Gulf carrier is the global launch customer for the state-of-the-art-aircraft, following delivery by Airbus from the aircraft manufacturer’s base in Toulouse, France, last week.

The world’s first A350-1000 XWB embarked upon its first commercial service to the UK capital on Saturday 24 February as QR 15 at 15:55 hrs and after a seven-hour 30 minute flight, landed at London’s Heathrow Airport at 20:25 hrs. The A350-1000 will operate a daily non-stop service between Doha and London.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “We have chosen London as the inaugural destination for this remarkable aircraft because at 23 feet longer than the A350-900, it is able to provide a significant increase in capacity on one of our most popular routes, offering enhanced levels of comfort for our passengers. For the first time in an Airbus aircraft, it will also feature our award-winning, patented Qsuite, offering a First Class experience in Business Class for both business and leisure travellers.

“As one of our flagship routes, we provide our passengers with the most advanced aircraft to fly in comfort and style from Doha to London.

“Our new A350-1000 provides this in abundance, alongside its sister aircraft, the A350-900, the double-decker A380 as well as the Boeing Dreamliner and the Qsuite-fitted Boeing 777. We look forward to introducing this highly-impressive next-generation aircraft to many other cities, thanks to our extensive and rapidly expanding global route network,” he said.

Qatar Airways offers six flights a day between Doha and London, providing a fast and frequent connection between the two capital cities.

Qatar Airways’ elegant premium lounge at London Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 4 offers a calm and luxurious welcome to passengers flying in First Class and Business Class. Resembling a boutique hotel or private club, it offers traditional Arabic hospitality with a gourmet dining experience, innovative deli-counter, private showers, a comprehensive business centre and comfortable seating areas, separated by olive trees and fountains.

The A350-1000 XWB will offer a total of 327 seats across two cabins, with 46 award-winning Qsuite Business Class seats and 281 18-inch extra wide Economy Class seats. It offers enhanced levels of passenger comfort, thanks to the lowest twin engine noise level of any aircraft, advanced air conditioning technology and full LED mood lighting.