Australian Government has rejected a request from Qatar Airways on the expansion of its network. The government claims that this request goes against Australia’s national interest as seats on international flights remain scarce and expensive for travellers.
Qatar Airways has been pushing to increase its Australian network by adding an extra 21 weekly services, on top of the 28 weekly services they already operate in Australia as part of their existing bilateral rights, bringing a total weekly service count to 49.
“The reason for rejection is not due to the ongoing legal action against the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) and Qatar Airways from Australian women that have been subject to forced examinations at Doha airport,” Catherine King, transport minister, Australia clarified.
Speaking on behalf of Catherine King, a spokesperson clarified to Guardian Australia that, government at this time has decided not to approve the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority request for additional services, taking into account all national interest considerations.