Qatar Airways has confirmed that its long-standing group chief, Akbar Al Baker, is to step down next month.
Al Baker is to leave the post on 5 November, and will be succeeded by Badr Mohammed Al-Meer.
Badr Al-Meer is the chief operating officer of Qatar Airways’ hub airport, Hamad International.
Al Baker is one of the longest-serving airline chiefs, having led Qatar Airways since 1997 – just three years after the carrier commenced operations.
“Under [Al Baker’s] leadership, Qatar Airways has grown to become one of the most recognisable and trusted brands globally, synonymous with customer service quality and the highest of standards,” the carrier states.
“His vision and commitment enabled the ground-breaking development of Qatar Airways from a small regional carrier into one of the world’s leading global airlines in the span of just 20 years.”
Qatar Airways has not elaborated on the reasons for Al Baker’s decision.
