Qatar Airways to launch direct flights to the Turkish City of Hatay

*New route reflects the close relationship between the State of Qatar and Turkey

Qatar Airways’ non-stop service to the Turkish city of Hatay will commence on April 4, it was announced Monday.The new three-times weekly route to the airline’s fifth gateway in Turkey will be served by an Airbus A320, featuring 12 seats in Business Class and 132 seats in Economy Class.Hatay, also known as Antakya, was one of the largest cities in the Roman Empire, and is known for its many well-preserved ancient Roman mosaics, as well as its traditional products including olive oil soap, fine silk and delicious local cuisine.“We are delighted to announce the launch of this new route, which reflects the close relationship between Qatar and Turkey,” Qatar Airways Group chief executive Akbar al-Baker said.

Vespasianus Titus Tunnel, an ancient water tunnel built during the Roman period, located in Samanda?, Hatay Province.“Turkey itself is continuing to grow in popularity with our passengers for both business and leisure purposes, attracting travellers who wish to enjoy its rich culture,” he noted. “We are delighted to offer yet another gateway into this spectacular country, and to provide even more choice to our passengers who wish to experience all that Turkey has to offer,” al-Baker added.Qatar Airways currently operates direct flights to Istanbul’s Sabiha Gokcen Airport three times daily, to Istanbul Ataturk Airport 10 times weekly, to Adana Sakirpasa Airport three times weekly and a daily service to Ankara’s Esenboga Airport.While enjoying the award-winning in-flight service on board, passengers travelling to Hatay will also have access to Oryx One, Qatar Airways’ in-flight entertainment system. It offers the latest blockbuster movies, TV box sets, music, games and much more.Qatar Airways connects Turkey to over 150 destinations via its award-winning Hamad International Airport and also offers seamless connecting flights from Fast East, Australia and the Middle East and beyond.