The flight: I flew Business with Qatar Airways on flight QR30 on an A350-900 from Edinburgh Airport, bound for Doha.
Check-in: As per pre-travel instructions I arrived for check-in three hours prior to departure at Edinburgh Airport, just as it was opening for my 14:00 flight. The Qatar Airways station manager, Tamer, made himself known to me quickly, and was extremely informative and helpful providing next steps and directing me to the shared British Airways Business Class lounge. Check-in was faultless and quick despite the extensive documentation now required for inspection to travel internationally.
The lounge facilities were perfectly adequate with comfortable seating and various dedicated quiet areas with a wide range of hot and cold food and drink options to choose from whilst awaiting departure.
Boarding: Upon announcement I made my way to the designated departure gate where I was again greeted by Qatar Airways ground crew who kindly escorted me to the aircraft. I was warmly greeted by the Cabin Crew Manager who ushered me to my allocated business class seat.
The seat: My seat, 4E, was fantastically comfortable, with plenty of storage cubby holes, and functionality allowing for the many different seating settings including that all-important flat bed for the 6+ hours journey time.
Each seat was beautifully presented with an environmentally considered cardboard boxed Diptique Amenity kit. The kit contained a fresh lotion, essential face cream, nourishing lip balm, 34 eau de toilette, ear plugs, an eye mask and pair of socks. With it, I received a wonderfully soft and warm blanket with a matching bolster pillow and an Oryx One headset to enjoy the extensive choice of inflight entertainment.
The service: The onboard menu options were delicious and included artisan bread, soup of the day, appetisers, mains, cheese plate, desserts, light options and snacks. I opted for a fresh salmon and prawn starter, followed by steak and finally had to skip dessert as I was full and my pallet in overdrive!
The choice of non-alcoholic cocktails was vast, each of which I tried. The alcoholic wine list was extensive, ranging from Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve Champagne to the Nittnaus Dessert Wine.
Throughout the flight the crew were attentive, very much enhancing the passenger experience.
The verdict: Excellent food, warm service, luxury amenities – what more could you want! Qatar Airways once again did not fail to impress.
