Earlier this year, Qatar Airways unveiled what could be the most incredible business class hard product that has ever existed. Their CEO, Akbar al-Baker had been touting it for years, at some point mentioning that it would make First class redundant. This was interesting because the airline offers a First Class product on their A380s, and even then the hard product is not “out of this world”.
The QSuite is Born
During ITB Berlin earlier this year, Qatar Airways showcased their new business class. Called QSuites, their new business class offers enclosed suites, and the only double bed in business class ever. They have direct aisle access, and their award winning soft product. The airline planned to add this version to their 777s and A350s. Their 787s and A380s would have a modified product given the dimensions of the cabins.
The Wait Is Over
Well, we officially know when and where the airline will be debuting the Qatar Qsuite. The first route to have the new redesigned cabin will be London Heathrow, starting on June 10th. The aircraft had been taken over earlier to be retrofitted in Zurich, as reported by Points from the Pacific. A7-BED is the plane to carry the first QSuite.I find it appropriate that they choose that one given its registration (a good play on words).
The next destinations that will have the QSuites after London will be Paris, New York, Tokyo and Sao Paulo. These destinations are served by A380s, 777s, A350s, and 777s respectively. It will be interesting to see if why the airline chose to pick such different aircraft to start the product with, given that it would be simpler if they stuck to the 777s (which have their most outdated product) and then refurbished the A380s, A350s and 787s. Those last ones have a great business class hard product that I would not be in a hurry to modify.
Landing Thoughts
I personally can’t wait to ride on the QSuites. I am currently in London, and it would be a great chance to take it on the return from LHR to Doha. Unfortunately, I am booked with commitments until the end of the month. That means it will have to wait until next time. It will be interesting to see what kind of product is offered on the A380s and 787s, given the cabin dimensions are smaller. The other issue I see is that they plan on keeping the seat count the same on both cabin classes, which could mean a tighter squeeze in coach. This would occur given the size of the new QSuite, which has larger dimensions that their other Business class products.
What do you think? Are you excited to ride on the QSuite? Would you prefer it over Emirates of Etihad? Let us know!
All images from Wikimedia Commons or Qatar Airways website, unless otherwise noted.
