DOHA: Cebu Pacific Air (CEB) has begun flights between Manila and Doha, making it the first Philippine carrier to start operations in Qatar.
The non-stop service leaves Doha on Tuesdays and Fridays at 4.15am and arrives in Manila at 6.35pm. The return flight leaves Manila on Mondays and Thursdays at 9.35pm and arrives in Doha at 2.45am the next day.
Fares start at QR688, about 50 percent lower than other airlines, said the company.
“We look forward to offering Cebu Pacific’s trademark low fares to travellers in Doha, especially since we are the only low-cost carrier operating this route. With our expanding network, Qatar becomes more accessible from the Philippines, and the Filipino community can reunite with families more often,” said Alex Reyes, General Manager, Long-Haul Division, CEB.
The new route utilises CEB’s new Airbus A330-300 aircraft, with a configuration of 436 all-economy class seats. Hot meals, seats with extra legroom and Wi-Fi on board, among others, are options that can be added to the fare.
CEB offers fast and convenient same-terminal connecting flights for guests taking advantage of its extensive Philippine network.
It serves the other two key markets for global Filipinos: the UAE via direct flights to Dubai, and Saudi Arabia via Riyadh. It also the only airline flying direct between Manila and Kuwait.
“Cebu Pacific’s presence in Qatar will benefit over 200,000 Filipinos and Qataris and the country’s flourishing expat population who will now be more enticed to visit the Philippines with its affordable rates. We are hoping to tap Cebu Pacific as the embassy’s partner in promoting Philippine tourism in Qatar,” said Ambassador Wilfredo C Santos.
“Hamad International Airport is pleased to have added one more airline to its operations and we would like to congratulate Cebu Pacific Air on its growth and success,” said Badr Mohammed Al Meer, Chief Operating Officer, HIA.
“As the gateway into Qatar and to the rest of the world, we are glad to have the opportunity to facilitate easy and convenient passage to the Philippines,” he added.
The Peninsula
