Qatar and Cathay Pacific sign strategic agreement

Cathay Pacific and Qatar Airways have signed a strategic agreement on services between Hong Kong and Doha.

Under the new deal the airlines will each operate one daily flight from March 30, as well as offering other premium products and services.

Cathay Pacific will make its debut on the Doha route with a daily service using an A330-300 aircraft in a three-class configuration — business, premium economy and economy.

The agreement will also allow passengers of both airlines to earn and redeem frequent flyer points or miles.

A statement said: "Top-tier members from Cathay Pacific's The Marco Polo Club and Qatar Airways' The Privilege Club will enjoy reciprocal benefits when travelling on flights between Hong Kong and Qatar, including lounge access, extra baggage allowances, priority boarding and many other priority services."

Cathay Pacific chief executive John Slosar said: "We are pleased to enter into this agreement with Oneworld partner Qatar Airways and at the same time launch our own new service to Doha.

"This exciting business opportunity will help us maximise the potential of the market between Qatar and Hong Kong and enable both airlines to create synergies that will improve the overall travel experience for our customers."

Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker added: "This new initiative will offer our passengers the opportunity to enjoy an even greater range of five-star benefits.

"The advantages of this agreement, such as premium lounge access and extra baggage allowances, reflect our ongoing commitment to ensure that we offer the highest standard of in-flight experience."

From March 30, the combined Cathay Pacific and Qatar Airways schedule for Hong Kong to Doha is: