It’s only one year until the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 begins. Providing a crucial role in carrying spectators and personnel to the highly-anticipated global football tournament, Qatar Airways has been busy gearing up for demand. This weekend, one of the flag carrier of Qatar's Boeing 777s took to the skies with the World Cup trophy and flew above the eight stadiums hosting the games.

A special occasion

With a special flight number of QR2022, the 777-3DZER took off from Doha on Saturday morning to navigate the east side of Qatar before landing back in the capital 79 minutes later. Two-time World Cup winner Cafu was there to witness the twinjet spectacle. The former Brazil International was also joined by a Qatar Legacy Ambassador.

RadarBox 2022
Registration A7-BEC took off at 10:20 AST and landed back at 11:39 AST. Photo: RadarBox.com

All eyes on 2022

Last November, Qatar Airways revealed a special livery with the words FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 livery painted on its 777 aircraft. It’s estimated that 1.5 million additional international passengers will arrive in Qatar for the tournament. As the official airline of FIFA, the airline is ensuring it’s got everything in place ahead of the big event.

“Qatar is ready to welcome fans from across the globe to its shores for this exciting, world-class event and, as the World’s Best Airline, we are eagerly anticipating the arrival of travelling fans on board as we expect amazing things from the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022,” Qatar Airways Group CEO Akbar Al Baker shared in a company statement.

“With just one year to go until the big event, the upcoming FIFA Arab Cup is the perfect showpiece tournament for both the State of Qatar and the airline to display our readiness. This global occasion represents what it means for us to be the Official Airline and Official Partner of FIFA, while seamlessly connecting people from around the world to our nation.”

Qatar Airways Flyover
Between November 21st and December 18th, 2022, 65 matches will be played at the eight stadiums, including Lusail, which is the largest venue with 80,000 seats. Photo: Qatar Airways

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Representing the nation

Qatar has spent billions preparing for the World Cup. However, the return on investment can be lucrative. For example, the 2018 World Cup in Russia injected $14 billion into the Russian economy. Qatar Airways naturally provides a role of connecting passengers across the continents via its Doha hub. Thus, the tournament is the perfect stage for the carrier to shine in this position.

Authorities are also bringing Doha International Airport out of retirement. This site was closed after Hamad International's 2014 opening. Now, it will return to host private jets and related operations. Meanwhile, HIA will focus on commercial activity.

Overall, Qatar Airways continues to show its excitement for the World Cup. Along with the launch of special travel packages, the carrier's Privilege Club is giving members 3,650 bonus Qmiles for every booking made between November 21st and 23rd.

World Cup Qatar 2022 begins on November 21st, 2022. So, it’s less than 365 days away. We can undoubtedly expect more promotions from Qatar Airways in the new year.

What are your thoughts about Qatar Airways’ World Cup 2022 flyover? What do you make of the airline's preparation for the event? Let us know what you think in the comment section.