Qatar’s Hamad International Airport (DOH) has capped off 2023 with new milestones. Throughout 2023, the award-winning airport has served an unprecedented 45,916,104 passengers, which translates to a 31% increase compared to 2022.
Passenger volumes continued to climb in 2023, surpassing even the momentum established during the historic FIFA World Cup.
Since its inception in 2014, the airport, which is the “Beating Heart of Qatar”, has consistently demonstrated robust growth, now tallying a cumulative passenger count of close to 303 million and demonstrating a 63% increase in annual passenger volume since the commencement of its operations in 2014.
Hamad International Airport has been ranked among the World's Busiest Airports of 2023 by OAG's Global Airline Schedules Data.
The airport reported 252,059 aircraft movements over the past year, which is a 22% increase compared to the previous year.
Hamad International Airport also witnessed growth in cargo operations amounting to a total of 2,340,711 tonnes of cargo. The airport has served a total of 52 airlines in 2023.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “At Qatar Airways Group, records aren't just numbers, they drive us to excel beyond expectations. Hamad International Airport's achievements are a reflection of our unwavering commitment to service excellence.
“We spearhead the industry, as we consistently elevate the travel experience to new heights. We're not simply moving people, we're shaping the future of travel. The airport's record-breaking year is a testament to the aviation industry’s unmatched agility and unwavering spirit.”
Hamad International Airport’s national carrier, Qatar Airways, has revealed its 2024 network expansion, featuring a summer schedule aimed at enhancing passenger connectivity to Europe’s cities. The airline has expanded to Hamburg and has returned to Venice, further broadening its global network for travellers.
In the realm of partnerships, Hamad International Airport has strengthened its global network by welcoming esteemed airlines such as Vistara, Air Iberia, Xiamen and others in 2023.
Having served 255 destinations in 2023, including passenger, cargo, and chartered flight destinations – Hamad International Airport continues to expand its reach and enhance connectivity on a global scale.
The facility's commitment to excellence has earned it several recognitions including, the second most connected airport in the Middle East, according to the Airports Council International (ACI) Index.
Its dedication to providing a seamless travel experience has been acknowledged through various awards, accolades and BSI certifications.
In 2023 alone, the airport secured prestigious titles, including being named the World's Second-Best Airport, World's Best Airport Shopping, Best Airport in the Middle East for the ninth consecutive year and the Cleanest Airport in the Middle East by the Skytrax World Airport Awards.
Additionally, Hamad International Airport received the Best Airport in the Middle East for the seventh consecutive year by the 20th Annual Global Traveler Tested Reader Survey Awards, the Most Innovative Airport Initiative award by the Future Travel Experience Innovate Awards and the Best Airport Award at the 32nd Annual TTG Travel Awards 2023.
Hamad International Airport has introduced advancements in passenger services that redefine the travel experience.
The implementation of QR codes have provided an easy-to-use wayfinding solution through different digital touchpoints conveniently located across the airport’s expansive terminal.
Additionally, the integration of over 40 user-friendly Passenger Digital Assistance kiosks provides easy access to information, assist in navigation and help passengers through live video calls to customer service agents.
Furthermore, Hamad International Airport has achieved ACI's accessibility accreditation, underscoring the commitment to inclusivity and ensuring a smooth travel experience for all.
The latest addition at Hamad International Airport is ‘Souq Al Matar’, a traditional Qatari Souq located in the North Plaza of the airport.
Currently advancing into phase B of its expansion plans, the airport is poised to welcome over 70 million travellers annually, embodies a multi-faceted strategy for exceptional passenger experience, supporting Qatar Airways' growth trajectory, and delivering towards the Qatar National Tourism Sector Strategy 2030.
Additionally, 2024 will be a milestone year as Hamad International Airport celebrates its 10th year of operations. – TradeArabia News Service