Shocking News: Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker Unexpectedly Steps Down
Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker resigns after an illustrious tenure, ending one of the aviation industry's lengthiest managerial reigns
Content must be written in English:
Akbar Al Baker, the CEO of Qatar Airways, is resigning, bringing an abrupt conclusion to one of the aviation industry's lengthiest periods of leadership.
Having been at the helm of the airline since 1997, Al Baker will officially step down on November 5th. Qatar Airways has not provided any explanation for his unexpected departure. In his place, Badr Mohammed Al Meer, currently the chief operating officer of Doha Hamad Airport, Qatar Airways' main hub, will assume the role.
Renowned for being one of the most vocal and significant figures in the industry, Al Baker is widely acknowledged for his instrumental role in elevating Qatar Airways to the ranks of the world's leading airlines. Over the course of his impressive 27-year tenure, he spearheaded a remarkable expansion and substantial investments in Doha airport, firmly establishing it as a prominent global hub. Presently, Al Baker holds the esteemed position of Chief Executive at the airport.
Al Baker frequently found himself at the center of controversy due to his unabashed opinions on the airline sector. In a recent interview with CNN, he dismissed the industry's net zero targets as a mere "PR exercise" and boldly predicted that they would ultimately be unattainable.
In 2018, Al Baker issued an apology for his previous sexist remarks during a gathering of the International Air Transport Association.
When questioned about the issue of gender inequality within the industry, Al Baker remarked that Middle East airlines should be helmed by men due to the demanding nature of the role.
After the comments caused uproar, Al Baker expressed remorse in a statement, saying "it would be my pleasure if I could help develop a female candidate to be the next CEO of Qatar Airways."
