Qatar Airways maintains over 20 specialised facilities for operations

Qatar Airways operates over 20 specialized workshops in Doha to maintain its fleet and perform various technical tasks, according to the airline's latest statistics. By December, the carrier plans to paint the exteriors of 10 wide-body aircraft in Doha. Over 150 of its aircraft are equipped with Starlink technology, making it the operator of the largest Starlink-equipped wide-body fleet in the world. The airline is also set to equip 30 Boeing 787-9 aircraft with Starlink by the end of the year.

During a media tour of Qatar Airways' Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) facility, officials explained the role of these workshops in supporting the airline's smooth operations. Ali AlSaadi, the chief MRO officer, stated that the facility was established when Hamad International Airport became operational. He emphasized that Qatar Airways maintains its own aircraft in-house, handling routine checks to full structural overhauls, with support from more than 20 specialized workshops in Doha covering avionics, cabin interiors, and other areas.

Saadi added that the airline works closely with multiple units, warehouses, and technical facilities to ensure smooth operations and customer satisfaction. The MRO unit's capabilities include engine maintenance and overhaul, structural inspections, aircraft modifications, component repair, avionics maintenance, and cabin interior refurbishment. The facility is one of the largest engine facilities in the world, with about 80 spare engines on hand to meet any fleet needs.

Capt Clifford Chetcuti, the chief flight operations and CAMO officer, highlighted the airline's Integrated Operations Centre (IOC), which coordinates real-time data and technology to monitor and manage the airline's global network. The IOC re-routes flights, re-plans schedules, and briefs crews to maintain a resilient network during peak travel periods, including winter planning and seasonal weather conditions.

The airline has also enhanced ground services, including staffing, operational resources, mobile kiosks, and check-in facilities to accommodate increased passenger demand during the winter travel season.