TravTalk India Online Magazine
Qatar Airways Group names Hamad Ali Al-Khater as its new Group Chief Executive Officer, marking a pivotal leadership transition for one of the world’s most influential aviation networks.
Qatar Airways Group announces the appointment of Hamad Ali Al-Khater as Group Chief Executive Officer, effective 7 December 2025. The transition comes at a critical time for the airline, as the industry continues to navigate capacity expansion, digital transformation and competitive positioning across global markets. For aviation stakeholders, the appointment signals Qatar Airways’ intent to strengthen operational excellence and future-readiness under a leader deeply embedded in Qatar’s strategic infrastructure ecosystem.
Al-Khater succeeds Engr Badr Mohammed Al Meer.
Experience rooted in large-scale operations
Al-Khater joins Qatar Airways Group from Hamad International Airport, where he serves as Chief Operating Officer. His responsibilities include ensuring safety, reliability and strategic direction of one of the world’s most awarded airports, while leading operational excellence, infrastructure development and passenger-experience enhancements.
Prior to this, he holds senior leadership roles at QatarEnergy, where he oversees business development, deal execution and major operational initiatives — giving him strong expertise across complex, multi-stakeholder environments.
Board perspective on the leadership transition
Qatar Airways Group Board of Directors Chairman, His Excellency Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, says: “Qatar Airways Group extends its appreciation to Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer for his service. As we welcome Hamad Ali Al-Khater, we look forward to building on the strong foundations and expansive global network of Qatar Airways, anchored by our exceptional team in Qatar and around the world. With this leadership transition, Qatar Airways Group reaffirms its commitment to delivering world-class experiences, reliability, and innovation to travellers around the globe.”
A defining role in a fast-evolving aviation landscape
Qatar Airways continues to be recognised globally, holding the title of World’s Best Airline for a record ninth time at the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards. The carrier flies to more than 170 destinations worldwide and is known for excellence in Business Class and premium lounge offerings. Its hub, Hamad International Airport, retains multiple Skytrax accolades and remains a benchmark in airport experience.
With sustainability programmes, global partnerships and a growing network, the airline enters a new chapter under Al-Khater’s leadership — one expected to shape fleet strategy, product innovation and competitive positioning across international markets.
