Qatar Airways and British Airways...

The airlines now offer customers a network spanning 185 destinations across more than 60 countries

Qatar Airways and British Airways have completed the latest phase in the expansion of their current agreement, offering global connectivity between more countries than any other airline partnership.

The airlines have added 42 new countries to their shared network, including Italy, the Maldives, Norway, Singapore and Sweden, giving passengers enhanced access between destinations in Europe and the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Oceania.

Part of Qatar Airways and British Airways’ plan to 'Move Further Together', customers will now benefit from more choice in prices and schedules with options for direct flights as well as connections via hubs in London and Doha.

Additionally, customers will have more freedom to engage with both airlines’ loyalty programmes, earning and spending Avios, their common currency.

Customers are able to link their Qatar Airways Privilege Club and British Airways Executive Club accounts to transfer Avios between the two, and combine balances to claim rewards offered by each programme.

The collaboration also offers access to both airline’s exclusive lounges, and cabins to suit all budgets and needs, including British Airways’ new Club Suite and Qatar Airways’ award-winning Qsuite.

Speaking about the news, Qatar Airways Group chief executive Akbar Al Baker said: “The growing collaboration between Qatar Airways and British Airways shows our customers our common goal to offer an unparalleled network with unique benefits.

"Travellers can now experience the best in quality and service as they travel across our joint network. The joint business between our airlines cements both Qatar Airways and British Airways as industry leaders, aiming to provide the utmost flexibility and unrivalled connectivity to our customers.”

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British Airways chairman and CEO Sean Doyle said: “This is a huge milestone in our long-standing relationship with Qatar Airways, an airline that shares our passion for customer service, choice and flexibility.

“From idyllic holiday hotspots such as the Maldives and Thailand, to business hubs such as Singapore, we are pleased to open up the world as the travel industry continues to make steps towards its recovery.”

For more information, visit www.qatarairways.com