Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker announced on Monday that "the company is struggling with oil companies to produce sustainable aviation fuel in order to reduce prices." In a press conference during the Arab Travel Market in Dubai, Al Baker indicated that "we are struggling with oil companies to provide economies of scale for the large-scale production of sustainable aviation fuel, aiming to lower prices," noting that "his company wishes to use this type of fuel or at least blend it with traditional aviation fuel."
Al Baker also revealed the company's expansion plans for next year at the 30th edition of the Arab Travel Market, stating that they may increase their destinations from currently 170 to over 255, as part of their rapid growth strategy. He mentioned that the increase would depend on the delivery of more aircraft to the company, with plans to expand to 190 destinations. He said, "Perhaps 85 or 90 additional destinations can be added depending on aircraft delivery."
Furthermore, Al Baker pointed out that the company is prepared to pursue code-sharing agreements and technical assistance exchanges with the new Saudi national airline, Riyadh Air. He added that rising energy prices have not affected travel demand for Qatar Airways, highlighting that the airline spent $2.4 billion, which is more than the allocated budget for fuel in 2022.