Qatar Airways adopts an intriguing strategy in promoting the forward cabin on numerous short-haul flights, which can lead to some confusion. In this article, I aim to delve deeper into this topic.
In this article:
Qatar Airways’ first class on short-haul flights
To begin, it’s essential to recognize that Qatar Airways provides first class on only a limited number of long-haul flights, focusing predominantly on delivering an outstanding business class experience. On long-haul routes, first class is available solely on all Airbus A380s and select Boeing 777s (notably, the six ex-Cathay Pacific 777s operated by the airline).
Qatar Airways intends to unveil a new first class on certain forthcoming Boeing 777Xs, but it remains uncertain how that will unfold, given the numerous strategic changes and the still uncertain timeline for these aircraft deliveries.
Qatar Airways’ Airbus A380 first class
However, on short-haul flights, the situation differs. On several regional routes, Qatar Airways promotes its forward cabin as first class instead of business class. Indeed, the same seat that might be branded as business class on another route could be advertised as first class on a regional flight.
You can anticipate that Qatar Airways positions the forward cabin as first class rather than business class on many routes within the Middle East, as well as selected flights to Northern Africa. Still, this isn’t always consistent. To illustrate a couple of examples:
For flights to Oman, services to Muscat (MCT) feature first class, while flights to Salalah (SLL) offer business class.
For flights to Egypt, journeys to Cairo (CAI) include first class, whereas flights to Alexandria (HBE) have business class.
From what I can gather, routes deemed “premium” (regarding demand, business, etc.) have first class, while other routes settle for business class.
Qatar Airways’ Qsuites business class (marketed as first class on selected flights)
What are the implications of this first class labeling?
Often, the difference between first class and business class appears trivial. For instance, in the United States, the forward cabin on domestic routes is typically marketed as first class even when it falls short of the quality found in business class on international services.
In the case of Qatar Airways, what are the implications of flying in first class on a regional flight? As previously mentioned, there’s no difference in seat quality, since you’ll find yourself on an aircraft that features seats that could otherwise be classified as business class on another route.
Nevertheless, there are some perks to flying in first class:
First class travelers (including on regional flights) gain access to Qatar Airways’ Al Safwa First Class Lounge in Doha, the airline’s premier lounge; thus, the lounge access benefits associated with first class are exceptional.
First class also provides a slightly enhanced service level compared to business class, although there is currently little variation in catering; however, it’s worth noting that in the past, Qatar Airways served Krug champagne in regional first class, which was indeed a treat.
Qatar Airways Al Safwa Lounge Doha
Does Qatar Airways charge more when a regional flight’s cabin is marketed as first class instead of business class? It varies.
If you’re purchasing a ticket with cash:
If you have a multi-segment business class itinerary, the short haul segment will automatically be booked into first class (subject to availability), meaning you’re not incurring additional costs for first class.
When traveling point-to-point on a regional flight, the pricing for first class is not noticeably higher than for business class; for instance, I’m observing higher rates in Qatar Airways business class from Doha to Salalah compared to Qatar Airways first class from Doha to Muscat.
If you’re using points for a ticket:
Through the Qatar Airways Privilege Club program, you would typically pay the higher first class rate for the short segment in first class.
Through certain partner programs, you can include a regional first class connection as part of a larger business class redemption at the business class award pricing.
Thus, for many travelers, being on a flight where the forward cabin is advertised as first class should be advantageous, as it might not cost extra, but offers more included services.
There are advantages to the cabin being marketed as first class.
Why does Qatar Airways promote these cabins as first class?
Why does Qatar Airways offer the forward cabin on a significant number of regional flights as first class rather than business class? As you can see, this approach isn’t solely about marketing; it’s also about enhancing the experience for short-haul passengers. Here’s my theory on the rationale:
Qatar Airways is a state-owned airline, and Qatari nationals tend to fly regionally, so the objective is to provide a superior experience for those local travelers.
The Gulf carriers are intensely competitive with one another, so this is