The rise of Gulf state carriers continues to impress. These airlines, which have defined themselves in part as hub-and-spoke carriers linking Europe (and the eastern coast of North America) to Asia, have developed exciting route maps over the last several years with a particularly strong reach into the Arabian Peninsula and India.
While other airlines have recently attempted to develop their hub airports for intercontinental hub-and-spoke connections as well - Finnair's recasting of Helsinki as a northern Europe-Asia hub is one example - the Gulf carriers really stand out in global terms.
Yet, awareness of their services remains far lower than it should be among Americans, despite the presence of Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways at a handful of major US airports.
The Gulf state carriers' key consumer product is a luxury flight with premium class service and a truly over-the-top experience on all three airlines. On Emirates, first class passengers are treated to private suites. Etihad's Diamond First Class features flatbeds, personal mini-bars, and anytime dining, while Qatar Airways' First Class offers turndown service with an amenity kit including products by Prada. With perks like these, it is clear that these carriers are establishing new standards for premium class service.
Even in coach, however, these airlines are delivering a decent product. I experienced the Qatar Airways economy treatment on a recent mid-haul journey from London, via Doha, and back. There was more legroom than in standard coach and the ongoing parade of meals and snacks was, if not exactly delicious, then without question, a cut above average airplane food.
Route maps, however, provide the most interesting dimension of the rise of the Gulf state carriers. While there is quite a bit of overlap between airlines, each airline covers some original territory. Let's look at where these airlines fly.Continue reading The continuing rise of Gulf state carriersThe continuing rise of Gulf state carriers originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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