Passengers and aviation fans were taken down a nostalgic journey when the airline flew its retro livery Boeing 777-300 aircraft to commemorate that very first flight. Qatar Airways Flight 007 was welcomed into London Heathrow with a traditional water cannon salute and a special celebration event for passengers.
The airline marked this occasion with an in-flight food menu, designed to evoke traditional British flavours. The exclusive à la carte menu illustrated famous icons in the UK including Britain’s red telephone boxes.
Passengers seated in Premium Cabins were invited to dine from the exclusive ‘25 Years of Excellence in London’ à la carte menu featuring famous English dishes including Sunday roast with Yorkshire pudding, beef pie, fish and chips with mushy peas and strawberry trifle. Economy Class passengers were also treated to bespoke dishes prepared for London’s celebration featuring distinct British dishes including Shepherd’s pie, Sunday roast chicken, sausage rolls and trifle for dessert.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive His Excellency Akbar Al Baker, said: “This is an incredibly important landmark in our history as we celebrate the anniversary of one of our longest serving and most popular routes. The last 25 years has seen us grow from a small airline to one of the largest in the world. Our airline itself celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, and London was an important first step in our journey; it remains a cornerstone of our global network today. This milestone also showcases Qatar’s exceptional relationship with the UK, and we look forward to our next 25 years.”
Chief Executive Officer of Heathrow, John Holland-Kaye, said: “We want to congratulate Qatar Airways on a quarter of a century of linking London and Doha through Heathrow, the UK’s only hub airport. By working together with partners like Qatar Airways we can maintain and build on the UK’s vital connections to key cities around the world, for the benefit of passengers and businesses.”
Qatar Airways extended its celebrations in the Premium Cabin with surprise treats for passengers from UK’s most iconic department store, Harrods. Passengers received a Harrods’ All-Butter Chocolate Chip Shortbread Biscuits and Harrods’ London edition of Earl Grey Tea. In addition to a special Qatar Airways branded teddy bear.
