Qatar welcomed its first leisure charter flight from Yerevan, Armenia, at Hamad International Airport on August 28, marking a step forward in the growth of inbound leisure tourism and diversification of its international visitor markets.

Operated by FlyOne in partnership with Rustar Tour Operator, the weekly service connects Yerevan and Doha using an Airbus A320.

The charter programme will operate through May 15, 2027, and is expected to bring around 6,500 Armenian visitors to Qatar during the contracted period.

The inaugural flight also marked the first leisure charter arrival following a recent regional operational disruption, signalling renewed confidence among travellers, tourism operators and aviation partners.

Visit Qatar and Hamad International Airport staff welcomed passengers with a special reception featuring traditional Arabic coffee and dates, while Qatari and Armenian flags were displayed to celebrate the new connection. Visitors also received Visit Qatar gift bags upon arrival.

The new service strengthens tourism ties between Qatar and Armenia while supporting Qatar’s efforts to expand its leisure visitor base.

Officials said the charter could also create opportunities for future services, including additional charter operations and potentially scheduled connectivity between the two markets. -TradeArabia News Service