It’s part of the Gulf carrier’s ongoing network expansion and route optimization as it seeks to reconnect more than 160 destinations worldwide.
A Qatar Airways Airbus A350-1000 at Doha’s Hamad International Airport. (Photo: Qatar Airways)
Qatar Airways is relaunching direct Doha to Auckland flights on September 1, 2023, with services due to operate daily. An Airbus A350-1000 will be deployed on the route — the aircraft features 46 Qsuites in business class with lie-flat beds, ample storage space, and direct aisle access. Farther back in the cabin, more budget-minded travelers can book 281 economy-class seats. Special touches onboard include LED mood lighting designed to mimic a natural sunrise and sunset for reducing the effects of jetlag, a useful add-on since the nonstop flight takes around 17 hours each way.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Akbar Al Baker, said in a statement, “The direct Doha to Auckland service augments a number of new routes announced in recent weeks and enables passengers in key European markets including the UK and Ireland to save time with this direct connection. Business Class passengers on board our Auckland flights can also enjoy the enhanced privacy of Qsuite, which has been awarded the Best Business Class Seat in the World.”
The outbound service from Doha, QR920, will depart every night at 1:50 a.m. and arrive in Auckland at 2:45 a.m. one day later. In the other direction, QR921 is scheduled to take off from Auckland at 3 p.m. and return to Doha’s Hamad International Airport at 11:15 p.m. local time. From September 24, the start of daylight saving time in New Zealand means that QR920 and QR921 will touch down and take off one hour later, respectively.
Reservations for the flight resumption on September 1 have already opened on the Qatar Airways website, and those previously booked for travel to New Zealand’s largest city after that date will be re-accommodated, due to their tickets being via Adelaide to Auckland.
