Qatar Airways First Flight in Five Years Lands in Canberra, Signaling Renewed Global ConnectionsThe first Qatar Airways flight in over five years has touched down in Canberra, marking a significant return for the airline and the city. This makes Qatar Airways the second international carrier now operating out of Canberra Airport. The flight arrived from Doha, Qatar, with a stop in Melbourne, bringing a renewed sense of global connection to Australias capital.This return has been a long time coming, with several delays pushing back the original planned resumption in late two thousand twenty-two. Qatar Airways had previously offered services from Canberra for several years before pausing flights at the beginning of the COVID-nineteen pandemic. The airline announced its definite return in October two thousand twenty-five, offering promotional fares to entice travelers.Forward bookings for Qatar Airways first twelve months out of Canberra are already thirty percent higher than when they initially launched in two thousand eighteen. Canberra has grown significantly, now one hundred thousand people larger, and its economy has expanded at the fastest rate in Australia over the last fifteen years, making it better positioned for international connectivity.The inaugural flight from Melbourne to Canberra was met with excitement among passengers, with a small cheer erupting upon landing. The service is expected to grow as more people become aware of the direct connection to over one hundred seventy destinations worldwide through Doha. The ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr also welcomed the news, emphasizing Canberrans high propensity for international travel and the strong outbound support expected for the service.This resumption is not just about convenience for travelers; it also has strategic importance. Qatar Airways commitment to Canberra helps them maintain their rights for a second daily service out of Melbourne, illustrating the regulatory framework that underpins this renewed partnership.

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