For this review, I will attempt to keep it general, and focus on the product over the four QSuites flights I enjoyed rather than a more specific review of the trip. There are differences in seat type on different planes, and service varies, but overall, most things are similar. Rocky has reviewed Qatar Airways QSuites Business Class several time, and I already wrote a post talking about my first impressions.
Qatar Airways QSuite trip details
With 4 flights on Qatar in Business class on this trip, all of which were in QSuites, I got a pretty good taste of the product. The shortest is between Frankfurt and Doha, a little over 5 hours, and the longest is between Doha and Seattle, at around 14 hours. The other flights between Doha and Cape Town clock in at around 9 hours. I had a mix of aircraft types, with one leg on a 777-300ER, 2 on A350-1000, and 1 on a 777-200LR.
The QSuite itself is slightly different on the Boeings vs Airbus. The A350 has a tail camera, and a slightly different IFE controller and system. The seat is otherwise the same. Maybe just due to where i was seated, in each case in window seats, but on the A350, it seemed like the seats looked directly into the QSuite across the aisle. Once the door was closed after take off this was no longer an issue.
I sat in odd numbered window seats on the last 3 legs, which was the seat I wanted. A few hours before departure, on first flight from Frankfurt, my seat was changed. I still got a window seat, but was forward facing, and closer to the aisle. Still a good seat, but not my preference, and I’m glad it was only on the shortest flight of the trip
Of note on one flight, I became a millionaire…on the IFE
In flight experience
On the ground, especially at outstations, the experience is nothing special. Departing Frankfurt, and then Cape Town, there are local lounges available. In Cape Town due to distancing requirements at the time, there was a long line for entry in the one small shared lounge. Arriving early, I eventually got in the line once it started moving as other flights left. But once on board, the experience is much better.
As you can see in many of these photos, there is definitely a routine. Blanket and pillow are waiting at the seat, and a drink is offered while getting settled. Before departure is usually when amenity kits, menus, and pajamas are provided. On one flight, the flight attendant asked, “can I offer you some loungewear from The White Company”? Only on my last, longest flight were hot towels used, rather than pre-moistened wipes. Each flight had good service, but the last flight, the lovely Maria from Indonesia was really an excellent flight attendant. Very polite, but let enough of her personality shine through the scripted procedures.
I often opted for champagne, but the mint lemon drink is tasty too. Meals are dine on demand, which usually works well, but some planning is required so items don’t run out. Menus are posted online, and searchable before travel. I went with the lamb for a main and the cheese plate at the end of meals several time. Here are some photos of various drinks and meals:
Doha connections
I’ve been to Doha a few times, both connecting and arriving/departing, but this was my first time in Qatar premium cabins. This makes quite a difference. The Al Mourjan lounge for Qatar Airways business class travelers is architecturally stunning, and a massive improvement on the other lounges for Oneworld elites or other airline passengers.
Not attempting to have a hot take on this, but I was actually underwhelmed by the lounge. It is architecturally beautiful, but during my visits it was crowded. Apparently I’m weird, I also didn’t love the Turkish Airlines lounge at the old Istanbul airport. When I visit a lounge, I usually want peace and quiet. Busy chaotic lounges turn me off. My experience in Istanbul is similar to this lounge in Doha. Well conceived, nice setup, but just not equipped for the masses of people that are eligible during busy periods at the airport. Long waits for a shower. Long waits for the dining room. A nice concept, but likely not an option on short layovers. As a solo traveler, finding a seat was generally doable, but I definitely prefer a more serene place when waiting out a layover.
Flightseeing
Window seats are my preference on any flight, but especially in QSuites. I take many photos from airplanes, and below are some from this trip.
The 14+ hour flight from Doha to Seattle takes a polar route:
Final thoughts on Qatar Airways QSuites
QSuites are among the best business class product out there, I don’t think that is much of a surprise to anyone. The seat is well designed, with plenty of privacy, enough space, storage, and comfortable sitting, lounging or sleeping. I really enjoyed my flights, and look forward to flying this product again soon. Service has changed due to the pandemic, but it is still quite strong overall.
Have you flown in QSuites? What was your experience?
