DOHA - Qatar Airways, one of the fastest growing carriers in the world, is set to begin Melbourne services later this year.

Mr Al-Baker, Qatar Airway’s Chief Executive Officer, today welcomed Victorian Premier Steve Bracks to Doha by announcing Qatar Airways had decided to make Melbourne its first destination in Australia, with services commencing in late 2004.

“While we are still finalising our schedule, commencing services to Melbourne is a key step in Qatar Airways’ plans to become a major international carrier between Australia, the Middle East and Europe,” Mr Al-Baker said.

Mr Al-Baker said the company’s growth, along with US$2.5 billion redevelopment of Doha International Airport, would make Qatar a major hub for international services to Australia.

“We see Qatar Airways’ expanding fleet of new aircraft fitted to the highest levels of passenger comfort as a new benchmark in travel to Australia,” Mr Al-Baker said.

Mr Bracks welcomed the announcement, saying it was a coup for Victoria that Qatar Airways had decided to fly to Melbourne first ahead of other Australian destinations.

“We welcome Qatar to Victoria, and are sure it will be successful in transporting more Australian tourists to this country as well as bringing guests from Doha to Melbourne,” he said.

Late last year, Australia and Qatar finalised an air services agreement that allows Qatar Airways to operate three services per week to Australia.

In talks with Premier Bracks, Mr Al-Baker said Qatar Airways was committed to Melbourne services and would demonstrate that demand exists for daily services at least by Qatar Airways.

Mr Bracks said Tourism Victoria would prepare a cooperative marketing program aimed at maximising outcomes for Qatar Airlines and Victoria.

“I want to assure Qatar Airways that Victoria values its decision and will work hard to make these services a success,” Mr Bracks said.