In the money

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ALI AL RAIS: Qatar Airways' vice president is confident that the affluent airline need not be overly concerned by the global economic downturn.

While airlines across the globe are struggling, Qatar’s national carrier is still flying high.

Boasting about Qatar Airways' wealth during a time of global recession seems a risky move. But Ali Al Rais, the carrier's vice president is totally confident there is no cause for concern. "We are not having trouble. Everybody knows Qatar is cash rich," he says, quashing any suspicions that the airline will be making cutbacks this year.

And while other airlines are tightening their belts, Qatar will continue to expand. "Luckily we have not been affected by this financial crisis," explains Al Rais.

"Revenues last year were extremely good, in fact the best we've had. We haven't seen any drop in future bookings either and we're very optimistic that with the strategies we have in place things will be fine."

Despite extreme confidence in a time of crisis, Al Rais grudgingly admits that some European routes may be affected.

"We don't deny there have been drops in Europe but in the Asia Pacific and the Middle East we are sustaining growth. We have received commitment for financing our planes and operations this year so we are well placed for success. I don't see a recession for Qatar," he adds.

In fact, the airline has recently announced the launch of a new route into the oil rich city of Houston, Texas. Despite America's current financial situation, Al Rais is convinced Qatar's third US route, which begins operations in March, will be a success.

"Houston is a massive energy city, rich in industry, particularly oil and gas," he points out. "In addition the city has an Arab community of more than 65,000 so there are lots of good reasons for this network."

The 16-hour flight, set to be one of the longest non-stop routes in the world, will be operated by a Boeing 777. Flying daily into Houston's George Bush International Airport, the new route has been launched to increase business opportunities between the energy sectors in the Middle East and the southern states.

"There exists close ties between the Arab business community and we look forward to establishing new air links between these vitally important global energy economies."

In terms of the aircraft, Al Rais assures it will be the most sophisticated on the market. "We'll launch the 777-200 on this route for ultra luxury because it's such a long flight," he explains.

"Business class will have a 78-inch seat pitch, a 2-2-2 seat configuration, live TV and touch screen entertainment as well as 180 degree lie-flat beds. We'll also be able to fly cheaper and greener than ever before. In fact we're set to be the first airline to be powered with gas to liquid fuel."

An agreement between Qatar Airways, Qatar Petroleum, Qatar Fuel Company (WOQOD), Airbus, Rolls-Royce plc, Shell International Petroleum Company Limited and the Qatar Science and Technology Park was first signed at the 2007 Dubai Air Show to research the potential benefits of gas to liquid synthetic jet fuel.

GLT fuel, a form of diesel made from natural gas, has been developed to decrease CO₂ emissions and has now been adopted by the carrier. Last year, Qatar's CEO, Akbar Al Baker made his position on the matter clear.

"There is a huge movement lobbying for the reduction in carbon emissions to make for a cleaner and safer environment. The aviation industry has been at the centre of this highly topical debate. We, as industry leaders, are committed to this cause and today's move highlights how seriously we take this important issue."

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