According to Travel And Tour World, the airline will operate four weekly flights using an Airbus A320, which is expected to elevate Rwanda's position as a prominent travel hub in the region and contribute to the growth of tourism across Africa.
The resumption of this nonstop service to Rwanda's capital is a significant milestone, enhancing global connectivity and offering improved access for both business and leisure travelers to East Africa.
Qatar Airways' direct flights are anticipated to have a lasting impact on Rwanda's tourism sector. The country has been making strides in promoting eco-tourism, adventure travel, and business conferences.
With this direct connection to Hamad International Airport in Doha, a key global transit hub, international arrivals are expected to increase, and outbound travelers will have easier access to destinations beyond Africa.
Besides, the direct flight eliminates previous stopovers, reducing travel time between Doha and Kigali. Moreover, Doha's central location as a major transit hub ensures better access for passengers from North America, Europe, and Asia, making it easier for international visitors to reach Rwanda.
Rwandan travelers will also benefit from seamless access to Qatar Airways' extensive global network, enhancing both business and leisure travel opportunities.
The return of Qatar Airways to Kigali is expected to boost Rwanda's tourism, providing easier access to the country's renowned attractions, such as its luxury lodges and the world-famous gorilla trekking experiences in Volcanoes National Park.
Additionally, the direct flights will support business travel between Africa and the Middle East.
As part of the oneworld alliance, Qatar Airways continues to expand its presence in Africa to meet the growing demand for premium travel and enhanced connectivity.
The airline's commitment to sustainability is evident in its selection of the Airbus A320 for this route, which offers both efficiency and passenger comfort for mid-range flights.
According to recent data, over 1.4 million visitors traveled to Rwanda in 2023, with projections indicating a doubling of this number by 2029. This growth is expected to be accompanied by an expansion of routes by Rwanda's national carrier, RwandAir.
Qatar Airways has also partnered with RwandAir, including in cargo operations, and the two airlines signed a codeshare agreement in 2021.
The partnership between Qatar and Rwanda has been strong since diplomatic relations were established in May 2017.
The collaboration spans various sectors, including infrastructure development and aviation, with Qatar Airways acquiring a 60% stake in Rwanda's Bugesera International Airport project in December 2019.
This partnership aims to position Rwanda as a key aviation hub in Central Africa.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/qatar-airways-to-resume-direct-flights-to-kigali
