I often believe that in the airline sector, the focus tends to favor the executives who shout the loudest instead of those who actually accomplish the most. Although I’ve previously discussed the airline CEOs I hold in high regard, in this piece, I would like to highlight an individual who may not bear the CEO title but arguably fills that role, as he doesn’t seem to get the recognition he deserves…
What’s happening with the CEO situation at Qatar Airways?
The last few years have been quite atypical regarding senior leadership at Qatar Airways. Towards the end of 2023, longtime CEO Akbar Al Baker unexpectedly departed, having steered the airline for 27 years. Al Baker played a crucial role in shaping the airline into its current form — he was a larger-than-life personality, and the airline was his passion. While he was somewhat polarizing (to say the least), it’s undeniable that he was an exceptionally intelligent and enthusiastic individual.
He was succeeded by Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, who appeared to be a much gentler and more composed leader, improving relationships with aircraft manufacturers, employees, and others. Reports suggested he spent his weekends at the airport assisting passengers and was generally well-liked. Strangely, he only held the position for approximately two years, before leaving in late 2025, leading to Hamad Ali Al‑Khater stepping in.
I have no idea what turmoil unfolded behind the scenes that resulted in three CEOs within a span of three years. It’s well known that the position of CEO at Qatar Airways is designated for Qatari nationals, and I would assume it requires maintaining favor with the Royal Family.
What strikes me as odd (at least) is that both Al-Meer and Al-Khater shared similar backgrounds — both served as Chief Operating Officer of Hamad International Airport before taking on the role of CEO of Qatar Airways consecutively.
It’s evident that airlines worldwide, particularly those in the Gulf, are facing a challenging period given the ongoing crisis. This raises the question of whether Qatar Airways lacks direction or what the situation is, since having an experienced leader is crucial at such a time.
To clarify, I don’t hold a personal opinion on Al-Khater one way or the other, as, rather strangely, I don’t believe I’ve encountered a single interview or public appearance from him.
Perhaps I’m overlooking something, but he must be among the least visible CEOs at a major airline, with his external communication being nearly nonexistent. At a time like this, having such a figure at the helm could be perplexing, especially without direct industry experience. This leads me to a person I believe deserves additional recognition for his efforts…
Is Thierry Antinori the unofficial CEO of Qatar Airways?
Despite the upheaval at Qatar Airways regarding its top executive position, one thing remains constant — Chief Commercial Officer Thierry Antinori has maintained his status as number two, and in my view, much of Qatar Airways’ ongoing success can be attributed to him. Among airline executives, he embodies the notion of “walk softly and carry a big stick,” given the influence and responsibilities he holds, while not receiving traditional acknowledgment.
Antinori has a compelling history in the aviation field. He previously worked with Air France-KLM and Lufthansa Group before joining Emirates in 2011, ultimately rising to the role of Chief Commercial Officer at the Dubai-based airline. Then in 2019, he transferred to Qatar Airways, where he initially took on the role of Chief Strategy & Transformation Officer, eventually becoming the Chief Commercial Officer.
At first glance, this might seem unusual. It’s improbable that he will ever become CEO of Qatar Airways, as that role is reserved for nationals, and unlike Emirates, Qatar Airways does not have a separate “President” title. Additionally, transitioning from Emirates to Qatar Airways with a similar position might appear as a downgrade, on the surface (Emirates operates on a larger scale).
Certainly, being Chief Commercial Officer is a significant role, but I don’t believe that fully captures the extent to which Antinori manages operations at Qatar Airways, based on my insights. I feel more confident in this assessment now than ever, considering the airline’s experience with three CEOs in three years.
Moreover, the fact that he collaborated with Al Baker for many years without major conflicts is quite an achievement, considering Al Baker’s dominating personality.
I’m intrigued to see how the rest of Antinori’s career unfolds. At 64, he might choose to retire soon if he wishes, though individuals in the airline industry tend to be passionate and often struggle to step away.
Given the strategic actions he has taken over