From Regional to Global: Akbar Al Baker’s Controversial 27-Year Reign at Qatar Airways

Akbar Al Baker, the CEO of Qatar Airways Group, renowned for his bold and often contentious remarks, has announced his resignation effective next month. After leading the transformation of the airline from a regional entity to a significant global player for 27 years, Al Baker will be stepping down from all his roles within the group, including at subsidiaries like Qatar Executive, Qatar Duty-Free, and Hamad International Airport, on November 5. The reins will be handed over to Mohammed Al-Meer, the present COO of Hamad Airport. The reason for Al Baker’s departure remains undisclosed.

Appointed as the airline’s CEO in 1997, Al Baker played a vital role in executing the vision of Qatar’s then-Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, turning the regional airline into a major global competitor. Al Baker nostalgically mentioned in a note, “In 1996, with just five aircraft, a loyal team, and unwavering dedication, we embarked on a unique journey towards aviation excellence.” This journey turned Qatar Airways into a pioneering airline, redefining business class travel, attracting millions to Doha, and setting high standards for customer service.

Despite being positioned in a small country with a minimal domestic aviation market, Qatar’s strategic location has made it a major hub for travelers. Every year, about 20 million passengers experience the luxurious Hamad International Airport, inaugurated in 2014 under Al Baker’s leadership. Under his watch, the airline expanded its global footprint and introduced groundbreaking services like the Qsuites in 2017, setting new standards in business class travel.

However, Al Baker’s leadership was not without its challenges. The airline’s insistence on high standards led to a public dispute with Airbus over paint issues on the A350 jets. Al Baker was also unreserved in his criticisms, openly slamming competitors and making controversial comments on topics ranging from cabin crew to the capabilities of female CEOs. The airline also faced international scrutiny over policies such as dismissing cabin crew who married or became pregnant, which was later rescinded in 2015.

Another major controversy was the 2020 incident at Hamad International Airport, where an infant was found, leading Qatari authorities to conduct invasive exams on women from a Qatar Airways flight bound for Australia. The incident continues to impact the airline’s reputation, most recently leading Australian officials to deny Qatar Airways’ request for additional flights.

Despite these controversies, Al Baker’s leadership saw the airline continue to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic, even with minimal passengers, enhancing its global image. Qatar Airways, with its extensive reach and reputation, has become an essential pillar in Qatar’s diversification efforts and a major player in promoting the upcoming 2022 World Cup. While the airline’s journey under Al Baker’s leadership has been transformative, it has not been devoid of challenges and controversies.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, Qatar Airways