Qatar Airways Boosts Flights to Bahrain as Inaugural Take-offs Commence. In a significant development, Qatar Airways is set to launch its inaugural flight between Qatar and Bahrain on Thursday, marking the reestablishment of direct flights after several years. This milestone also comes with a planned expansion of flight frequency in the upcoming months, with multiple daily flights slated to commence from June. Read Latest updates and news about Qatar Airways.
Increased Flight Frequency Confirmed by Qatar Airways
In an official statement released on Thursday, Qatar Airways confirmed its intention to amplify its flight offerings to Bahrain starting next month. The airline expressed its excitement about the first flight departing on Thursday and announced a forthcoming escalation in flight frequency. The airline stated that it will be operating three daily flights to Bahrain from June 15th.
Flight Schedule and Details
The inaugural flight, QR1108, is scheduled to depart from Hamad International Airport at 20:00, with an estimated arrival time at Bahrain International Airport at 20:50. Conversely, flight QR1109 will take off from Bahrain International Airport at 22:20 and is expected to touch down at Hamad International Airport at 23:15.
Rekindling Ties: The Diplomatic Backstory
The resumption of flights between Qatar and Bahrain signifies a crucial step in the ongoing process of diplomatic reconciliation between the two nations. The history of strained relations dates back to 2017 when flights were suspended due to a diplomatic crisis involving Qatar and several other countries, including Bahrain. However, this impasse was resolved in 2021 with the signing of the Al Ula Accords, although the pace of restoring relations varied among the nations involved.
Bahrain’s Role in Reconciliation
Bahrain played a pivotal role in rekindling relations with Qatar, symbolizing a diplomatic breakthrough. The Bahraini Civil Aviation Affairs signaled a positive diplomatic shift in April, demonstrating an initiative to de-escalate tensions. The announcement underscored the importance of strengthening the ties between the two countries and their shared aspirations.
Gulf Air’s Participation
Alongside Qatar Airways, Bahrain’s national carrier, Gulf Air, is poised to enhance travel connectivity between the two nations. Alex Macheras, an aviation analyst, highlighted the significance of this development, noting that it completes a crucial piece of the puzzle after the 2017 blockade. Gulf Air’s participation is expected to further increase travel options and capacity on this route.
Progressing Diplomatic Relations
The year 2023 has witnessed encouraging signs of improvement in the relationship between Qatar and Bahrain. Notably, high-level meetings between Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa have taken place, signaling a willingness to address longstanding issues. Diplomatic conversations and encounters have been instrumental in gradually addressing unresolved matters.
Historical Disputes and Resolutions
Experts suggest that some of the lingering issues between Qatar and Bahrain include historical territorial disputes that have roots dating back decades. These disputes center around territories like Zubura, Janan Islands, and Fasht Al-Dibal. These issues have historical origins tracing back to the intervention of British colonialists in 1937, leading to disputes over territorial sovereignty.
Conclusion
The International Court of Justice in The Hague was eventually involved in settling these disputes, a process that spanned ten years and concluded in 2001. The court’s decision granted Qatar sovereignty over territories including Zubara, Jinan Islands, Haddad Janan, and Fasht Al Dibal, while Bahrain gained sovereignty over the Hawar islands and Qit’at Jarada.