Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker to step down, successor to be named soon: Report

Akbar Al Baker is retiring as chief executive of Qatar Airways following more than two decades at the helm of the state-owned carrier, according to a source familiar with the matter told Reuters.

It was not immediately clear why Al Baker, who was appointed CEO in 1997, three years after the airline launched, is retiring.

Qatar Airways representatives could not immediately be reached for comment.

It was announced on Sunday that Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamid Al Thani had replaced Al Baker as the country’s top tourism official.

No reason was given for the decision.

Al Baker has been instrumental in transforming Qatar Airways into a major international carrier that competes against the likes of Dubai’s Emirates and Turkish Airlines.

“After 27 years of service, I am writing to you to announce that I will step down from the Qatar Airways Group. In 1996, with a fleet of just five aircraft, unwavering dedication, and a loyal and passionate team, together we embarked on a remarkable journey to aviation excellence,” Times of India quoted Baker as stating in a letter to the carrier’s employees.

He is credited with spearheading the growth of Qatar Airways, which operated only four aircraft in a regional capacity prior to his appointment. Qatar Airways currently flies to 160 destinations across the world and has expanded itself to a fleet of 248 modern and fuel-efficient aircraft.

He also led the development of the multi-billion dollar Doha International Airport.

Qatar Airways to name new leadership

Badr al Meer will be appointed the new CEO of Qatar Airways after the current incumbent Akbar al Baker steps down, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Monday.

Al Meer is currently the chief operating officer of Doha’s Hamad international airport, according to the airport’s website.