This isn’t my first time flying Qatar Airways, and it’s certainly not my first Qatar Airways economy class review. What you’re reading now replaces an older post I wrote back in 2018 after a long-haul flight from Hong Kong to Madrid.
Last week, I stepped off another Qatar flight, this time travelling from Johannesburg to Seoul, making this review as current as it gets.
Before deleting the old version, I asked ChatGPT to condense it into a couple of sentences. It summed up my thoughts perfectly:
“My Qatar Airways economy experience reaffirmed why this airline ranks at the top: from smooth check-in and even snagging exit row seats for free, to robust in-flight entertainment (including free WiFi for an hour) and meals that satisfied even a picky eater. Even in the back of the plane, it felt premium without pretence.”
Six years later, I wanted to know if that reputation still held up. Had Qatar Airways economy class evolved, improved, or quietly slipped while everyone kept calling it the world’s best? Over this journey, I flew three different aircraft types, connected through Doha, and spent more than 17 hours in the air.
Here’s the honest verdict.
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Disclaimer: Qatar is not paying us for this review of our flight experience. I paid the full fare and am not affiliated with them in any way. This Qatar economy class review reflects my personal experience and opinion.
Quick Facts: Qatar Airways Economy Class
(This Trip)
- Routes flown: Johannesburg – Doha – Seoul return
- Aircraft: Boeing 787-9, Boeing 777-300ER, Airbus A350
- Cabin: Economy Class (Q fare)
- Alliance: Oneworld
- Wi-Fi: Free for entire flight (Starlink on selected aircraft)
- Transit airport: Hamad International Airport, Doha
Qatar and I: Why I Keep Flying Them
I’ve flown with Qatar Airways plenty of times over the years, and I’ve always stepped off the plane smiling, already looking forward to flying with them again.
My first Qatar flight was back in 2013, from Seoul to Athens and back again for our honeymoon, and it was not a bad way to start a marriage or a relationship with an airline. Since then, there have been several more: a Johannesburg to Seoul route, Hong Kong to Madrid returning from Lisbon, and now this most recent Johannesburg to Seoul flight.
For me, Qatar Airways has consistently delivered some of the best flights I’ve taken in economy. The service is refined without being fussy, the meals are reliably good, and the whole experience feels just a little more considered than most other carriers in the same price bracket.
Whenever I’m planning a long-haul trip, Qatar is always among my top considerations, depending on price and layover duration.
I even look for flights with long stopovers on purpose. Qatar’s layover programme makes it possible to book a five-star hotel in Doha for about $50, giving you a day or two to explore the city between flights. We’ve done it before, and it turned a simple connection into an experience.
Flying Qatar Airways economy class has always felt like a premium experience, and honestly, I wouldn’t expect anything less from an airline that calls itself the world’s best.
I have a little fetish of logging every single flight I take on Flightradar24, and according to its stats, Qatar is my top airline by distance flown (52 000 miles) and second by flights taken (14).
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Johannesburg to Doha:
Qatar Airways Economy on the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
Booking My Qatar Airways Ticket
Finding the right ticket for this trip became a small obsession. I spent hours (days, really) comparing routes and prices, determined to get to Seoul in the shortest time possible without breaking the bank.
My search always starts on Trip.com, my go-to platform for a sense of what’s out there. They often have the cheapest fares, or at least a good overview. From there, I cross-check directly on the airlines’ own sites, and finally, I do one last sweep on Google Flights to make sure I’m not missing a hidden deal. This time, Google Flights came through with the cheapest fare.
For this journey, the main contenders were Ethiopian Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Etihad, and Qatar.
Singapore had a painfully long layover, and Etihad’s departure time was too early to be practical. I flew Ethiopian last year and loved it — it’s an underrated airline with excellent service — but I ended up choosing Qatar Airways. The decision wasn’t just about nostalgia or comfort; I knew I wanted to refresh this Qatar Airways economy class review with something current.
Google Flights routed the cheapest Qatar fare through a third party, Travelstart. I booked through Travelstart and had my e-ticket in my inbox within minutes.
Another factor that tipped the scales was loyalty. Qatar is part of the Oneworld Alliance, and as a Cathay Pacific Marco Polo Club member, I needed just a few hundred more miles to bump up my tier. On this return ticket (booked in Q class, the cheapest fare type with partial mileage accrual), I earned a satisfying 4,200 Cathay miles.
Check-In Experience with Qatar Airways
I went on to the Qatar Airways mobile app (simple name, solid app) and used my Travelstart booking reference to see if I could access my reservation. To my surprise, it worked seamlessly, and I could access my booking.
The day before departure, I opened the app again and noticed I could check in online and select my seats for free. I chose an aisle seat for each leg ( I value easy aisle access over views these days), and downloaded my boarding passes straight to my phone.
At OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, I arrived about three and a half hours before departure. Qatar’s check-in counters were already open, with a dedicated bag-drop line for passengers who’d checked in online.
I asked if they had any exit row seats available, but not this time. On every single one of my previous Qatar flights, I was given an exit row seat, and I still believe they might give you one if one was available. During my flights, I actually got up and checked the exit rows, and the seats were all occupied.
The process was fast and painless. The staff were friendly in that genuine way that still feels human, not rehearsed, and in under five minutes, I was holding my baggage receipt and heading toward security.
First Impressions, Take-Off & Amenity Kit
QR1364 was operated on the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, and it was love at first sight upon boarding. Laid out in a 3-3-3 configuration with the sides in charcoal and the middle section in Qatar’s distinct burgundy, it just felt classy and refined. I was excited to fly Qatar again from the get-go.
As we taxied to the runway, the safety video started playing, and it’s not the usual dull, half-watched formality, but an unexpectedly entertaining feature starring Kevin Hart and social media star Khaby Lame. It was funny, fast-paced, and surprisingly watchable. I caught myself grinning and actually paid attention all the way through. It’s not often an airline safety video makes you laugh, but this one did.
I even rewatched it on my connection from Doha, a rare thing for a frequent flyer who’s usually half-asleep during take-off.
The take-off was smooth as butter, a quiet lift into the African sky that set the tone for the rest of the flight.
Once we levelled off, I reached for the Qatar Airways economy class amenity kit, curious to see if these were still a thing. Inside: a soft eye mask, socks, earplugs, and a disposable toothbrush with toothpaste. Simple, functional, and much appreciated.
The amenity kit might sound like a small detail, but even in economy, Qatar holds onto touches most airlines quietly phased out years ago. That small kit doesn’t just make the long haul a little more comfortable; it signals that Qatar still believes in delivering an experience, not just a seat.
Economy Class Seat Comfort on Qatar Airways
I don’t fly with rulers and protractors, so don’t expect precise recline angles or seat pitch measured to the millimetre. What I can tell you is how it actually felt.
I’m 187 centimetres tall (around six foot two for my American readers) and sat comfortably without my knees jamming into the seat in front of me.
The seat itself was firm but supportive — not a soft sofa, but not a back-breaker either. It struck a good balance for a long-haul economy seat. The padding felt fresh, the fabric clean, and there was enough space to shift around during the flight without feeling boxed in.
I’d strategically pre-selected an aisle seat in a row where the window seat was already taken. It’s a small travel hack that often leaves the middle seat empty unless the flight’s completely full. It worked this time, and having that extra bit of elbow room made a world of difference.
Each seat had a personal entertainment screen, USB port, and universal power outlet, plus a decent-sized tray table that didn’t wobble. The recline was enough to relax without intruding on the person behind, a small mercy for everyone involved.
One of the best features of Qatar seats is the ergonomic headrest that adjusts both in height and shape. When you fold the headrest, it’s solid and sturdy, allowing me to rest my head against it without folding back, and as a tall guy, I appreciate how it doesn’t slide back down when you extend it up.
For me, Qatar’s economy seat hits the sweet spot between comfort and practicality. You won’t mistake it for business class, but you’ll step off the flight feeling surprisingly human.
In-Flight Entertainment on Qatar Airways (Oryx One)
The Oryx One in-flight entertainment system on Qatar Airways’ Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner was a dream from the start. The screen was large, bright without being blinding, and impressively responsive. It felt more like using a good tablet than the sluggish screens some airlines still pass off as modern.
Navigation was intuitive, and there was no shortage of content — hundreds of movies, series, and music options neatly sorted by genre and language. There’s even live TV, including news and sports channels, though I didn’t test them this time.
The provided headset looked just fine, but with ears that stick out more than most, I assumed it wouldn’t fit. And I was half right: it sat a little awkwardly, leaving a small gap. But credit where it’s due: the sound quality was excellent.
After testing it out for the sake of this Qatar Airways economy class review, I switched to my own Bluetooth earphones. That’s where Qatar earns serious points. Being able to connect wirelessly feels like a small miracle at 35,000 feet.
The connection was instant, and it worked the entire flight. I honestly can’t see myself flying without Bluetooth connectivity again — first-world privileges, I know.
I ended up watching almost an entire season of The Tourist on the Johannesburg–Doha leg, saving a few episodes for the onward flight to Seoul. Between episodes, I kept an eye on the interactive route map, which was detailed, crisp, and customisable, even allowing you to shrink it into a floating window.
There were no printed magazines onboard, just the safety card in the seat pocket. I looked for the in-flight dining menu on the IFE, but if it was there, it wasn’t easy to find. Not exactly a major issue, but in a cabin this polished, it stood out.
Wi-Fi and Connectivity in Qatar Airways Economy Class
On my first Qatar Airways economy class review, I was over the moon about the one free hour of Wi-Fi economy passengers received. This time, though, things didn’t go quite as smoothly. On the Johannesburg–Doha leg, I couldn’t get my phone to connect at all.
The IFE had a Connectivity & Bluetooth tab, but only the Bluetooth option was active. I’m sure if I’d asked, the flight attendants would’ve had me online in minutes, probably with that trademark Qatar smile and a tray of warm nuts for good measure.
While writing this review, I looked into Qatar’s Starlink Wi-Fi rollout. It turns out it’s currently available mainly on the Boeing 777 and Airbus A350 fleet.
Qatar has acknowledged that there have been certification hurdles with the Boeing Dreamliner and expects Starlink to be fully operational on those aircraft by the end of 2026. Dreamliner routes include Johannesburg, Dublin, and Ho Chi Minh City, so for now, it’s worth preparing yourself for little to no Wi-Fi connectivity on these flights.
For now, at least, it seems that there is no free Wi-Fi on Qatar’s Boeing Dreamliner.
Things improved dramatically on the Doha–Seoul leg. Somewhere over Iran my phone buzzed with a WhatsApp message. I hadn’t even realised I was connected. From that point until landing in Seoul, the Wi-Fi worked flawlessly, delivering an entire flight of smooth, lag-free browsing.
Surprise number one: the Wi-Fi actually worked, and worked well.
Surprise number two: Qatar now offers free Wi-Fi for the entire duration of the flight, aircraft permitting.
For economy class, that’s exceptional. I remember sitting there, sipping my wine, thinking, Yeah, Qatar still does it better.
Qatar Airways Economy Class Food Review
It’s a fact that no one flies economy class for the culinary experience. But as to be expected from the world’s best airline, Qatar Airways’ economy-class food is damn tasty. Qatar is a full-service flight that includes meals, snacks, and alcoholic and soft drinks.
All the meals on the Qatar Airways menu are halal, and if you require a special meal (vegetarian, religious, or medical meals), you can book that at the same time as your ticket, at no extra cost. You could also arrange a special meal by calling your nearest Qatar Airways office or on the Qatar App at least 24 hours before departure.
From our very first time flying with Qatar Airways, their food stood out as the best in economy class. I still remember the surprise of being served waffles for breakfast while other airlines were dishing up watery scrambled eggs and pale, lifeless sausages. Qatar set the bar back then, and I’m convinced the rest of the airline industry followed.
On my recent flights, the food remained exceptionally good. I do have a few gripes (purely first-world ones), but overall, it’s still one of the most enjoyable airline dining experiences out there.
Johannesburg to Doha
We departed Johannesburg at 13:15, and lunch was served shortly after takeoff. There were three options: chicken, beef, or vegetarian pasta. According to the menu, the choices were Chicken Sauté Casseur, Braised Beef Vindaloo with aloo gobi, or Penne Alfredo with parmesan.
I went with the beef vindaloo, accompanied by a bread roll and a glass of red wine.
First impressions were slightly underwhelming. It looked appetising, but I expected a bit more flair from Qatar. There was no butter for the roll, no cheese and crackers (which Emirates offers), and—most tragically—no ice cream. I always look forward to Häagen-Dazs at 35,000 feet (read that in your most pretentious voice), something that I love about flying with Cathay, Emirates, or Singapore. First-world problems, I know.
The main dish itself was excellent, with the bread even spicier than the vindaloo, and deliciously so. Dessert, listed as cheesecake, had more of a mousse-like texture, but was still damn good.
Before landing in Doha, we were served a light snack (a harissa chicken puff) that was excellent but far too small. Not nearly enough to fill a grown man. I landed in Doha hungry and immediately went in search of hummus (one thing I truly miss most about living in the Middle East, besides the tax-free salary).
Doha to Seoul
This overnight flight departed at 02:00 and landed in Seoul around 17:15. I expected breakfast and lunch, but the menu called it brunch and lunch/dinner. Either way, we got two proper meals, not just a token snack.
For brunch, I chose the fried noodles with seafood, which was excellent, almost like a Korean japchae. I felt posh and paired it with white wine and Baileys because why not? Dessert was billed as apple crumble but looked and tasted more like overnight oats or yoghurt. Delicious, yes, but still… if you’re going to call it apple crumble, make it crumble.
The second meal, a black pepper chicken with fried rice, was another winner. The highlight, though, was the decadent chocolate mousse, which tasted like melted Godiva. Easily the best dessert of the trip.
Still no butter for the bread rolls. Still no ice cream. But still damn tasty.
As long as you don’t expect Häagen-Dazs, you’ll love the food on Qatar Airways. It’s flavourful, and consistently better than what most airlines offer in economy.
Transit at Hamad International Airport, Doha
The world’s best airline needs a pretty damn good airport, right? Hamad International Airport doesn’t just keep up, it leads the pack. It’s been repeatedly crowned World’s Best Airport at the Skytrax World Airport Awards, including top honours in recent years, and after transiting here again, I get why.
After a final genuine smile and farewell from the cabin crew, I was released into this glitzy behemoth of an airport. Hand luggage scanned, I descended the escalators into a world of luxury storefronts and the unmistakable scent of Tom Ford cologne and oil money.
At the bottom of the escalator stands Hamad’s most famous resident: the giant yellow teddy bear, officially titled Lamp Bear. Created by Swiss artist Urs Fischer, it’s become an unlikely icon of Doha airport transit. Naturally, I took a selfie, then made a beeline for the information desk to ask the important question: where can I find cheap hummus and moutabal?
I was pointed toward Comptoir Libanais, a cheerful Lebanese eatery, where I ordered a plate of hummus, that thin, paper-like flatbread perfect for scooping, and a Coke. It came to 50 QAR, roughly 14 USD. Not cheap by normal standards, but probably one of the best-value meals in Hamad. And it was excellent.
With a full stomach, I explored. The airport is spacious, calm, and beautifully lit, designed with transit passengers firmly in mind. Signage is clear, seating plentiful, power points easy to find, and the free Wi-Fi worked.
I took the in-terminal shuttle train to another concourse and encountered Hamad’s other famous artwork: the enormous wooden figure by KAWS, titled Small Lie. It looks a bit like Pinocchio having an existential crisis, and it’s impossible to miss.
The highlight, though, was The Orchard, Hamad’s indoor tropical garden in the Central Concourse. Walking through it, you completely forget you’re in an airport in the middle of the desert. There’s a raised canopy walkway above, winding paths below, and even teepee-style tents where I spotted a few long-haul transit zombies fast asleep.
My layover was three hours long, and I don’t think I’ve ever said this about an airport, but I could’ve happily stayed another hour or two.
Doha to Seoul:
Qatar Airways Economy on the Boeing 777-300ER
QR858 left Doha at 02:00, and the first surprise came before I even sat down. Seeing the 3-4-3 cabin configuration, I realised this flight was operated by a Boeing 777-300ER, not the Airbus A350-1000 I was expecting.
When I later checked the Qatar app and ran a dummy Doha–Seoul search, it still showed the route as an A350. Aircraft swaps happen, but if you’re choosing Qatar specifically for the newer jets, this is worth knowing.
I’ve flown on enough 777s over the years to know they’re not my favourite, and walking down the aisle didn’t exactly change my mind.
The seat padding looked thinner, more utilitarian, and very much from another era. Settling into my aisle seat, I found the standard pillow, blanket, and amenity kit already waiting. Once again, my usual aisle-seat strategy paid off, with the middle seat staying empty.
The IFE was a step down from the Dreamliner. Smaller screen, that old-school pull-out remote on a cord, and a layout that instantly dates the cabin. It worked just fine, but it felt like flying in a different decade.
Before takeoff, we sat on the runway for close to half an hour while the air-conditioning blasted on full. It was freezing. I wrapped myself in my blanket, asked for another, and ended up fully cocooned, head included. I must’ve looked like a refugee. I wasn’t alone. Around me, passengers were fighting air vents and layering up. Once airborne, temperatures returned to normal and stayed comfortable for the remainder of the flight.
On the food front, I was genuinely glad to see two full meals on this leg, a proper brunch followed by a lunch or dinner, rather than the lunch and light snack on the Johannesburg–Doha sector. Both meals were damn tasty and, more importantly, filling. Between services, the galley was stocked with help-yourself snacks like popcorn and chips, which is always appreciated when you get peckish mid-flight.
Bluetooth audio wasn’t available on this aircraft, but the Starlink Wi-Fi was fast, stable, and lag-free for the entire journey.
I’d hoped to finish The Tourist, but couldn’t find it in the IFE library this time. My previous flight had an Australia Cinema section on the homescreen, which I didn’t see here. After dinner I used the free Wi-Fi to keep me entertained.
The hard product on this flight was disappointing. Everything worked, and the aircraft was spotless, but it felt dated, like stepping back into the late 90s. The soft product, though, was still unmistakably Qatar: excellent service, good food, and a calm, professional cabin presence that carries the experience.
We landed in Seoul a few minutes ahead of schedule, and I stepped off the plane not feeling like I’d left home 24 hours ago. Qatar does that. I’ve always walked off a Qatar flight feeling like I’m still on cloud nine… right up until the jet lag kicks in.
A Quick Note on the Return Flight
(Seoul to Doha on the A350)
On the return journey, I was genuinely happy to see an Airbus A350 waiting at the gate for the Seoul–Doha leg. This was the aircraft I had originally expected on the inbound flight, and it immediately felt like a return to form.
The A350 is miles above the 777. The seat design, cabin layout, and IFE system closely resemble what you get on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Everything feels modern, clean, and deliberately designed for long-haul comfort. The cabin is quieter, the lighting softer, and the overall atmosphere far more relaxing.
If I’m being picky, the Dreamliner still edges it slightly. It feels just a touch more spacious and, for me, marginally more comfortable. But this is splitting hairs. The A350 delivers exactly what you expect from Qatar Airways economy class: a refined, modern experience that doesn’t feel compromised simply because you’re not sitting up front.
This flight reinforced something important. When you fly Qatar on their newer aircraft, the experience is consistently excellent. The service is familiar, the cabin feels current, and you step off the plane reminded why Qatar continues to sit at the top of the global airline rankings.
Final Verdict:
Is Qatar Airways Economy Class Worth It in 2025?
So, is Qatar Airways economy class as good as they say?
Yes.
A thousand times yes.
From check-in to landing, Qatar delivered on all fronts. The few gripes I have are pure first-world problems, but when an airline sets the bar this high, you notice the small things.
On this trip, I flew three aircraft types: the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Boeing 777-300ER, and Airbus A350.
The Dreamliner was outstanding: quiet, comfortable, and exactly what you want on a long-haul economy flight. The A350 was close behind, modern and refined. The 777 was the weak link. Clean and functional, but dated and noticeably less comfortable.
That’s really Qatar’s only flaw: aircraft inconsistency, not service. The soft product is rock solid. If there’s a gold standard for hospitality in economy class, Qatar sets it. That warmth feels genuine, not rehearsed.
What makes this even more impressive is value. Qatar was the cheapest ticket I could find for my dates, with the shortest layover. It’s rare for the world’s best airline also to offer the best deal, but here we are.
Qatar Airways economy class is for people who enjoy flying and expect the journey to be part of the experience, not something to endure. Add free Wi-Fi for the entire flight, and it’s clear Qatar understands what modern travellers actually want.
My snowflake complaint? The meals could be a little more filling. The snacks are delicious, just enough to get you excited, and then they’re gone. I probably should’ve asked for another one.
Compared to competitors, Qatar sits neck and neck with Emirates. Emirates still wins on food extras (butter, crackers, cheese, ice cream), but I prefer Qatar’s overall vibe, and Hamad International Airport is far better than Dubai in my book. Read my my Emirates economy class experience to find out more.
Etihad is similar in theory, especially with food, but far more inconsistent. The Abu Dhabi airport doesn’t come close to Doha, and my last Etihad 777 flight from Abu Dhabi to Jakarta is probably why I got mild PTSD stepping onto Qatar’s 777.
And Ethiopian simply plays in a different league altogether.
So yes, it really is a no-brainer. Qatar Airways economy class lives up to the hype. And Qatar will definitely see me again. Hopefully soon.
Read More Economy Class Reviews:
Emirates Economy Class Review
Ethiopian Airlines Economy Class Review
Turkish Airlines Economy Class Review
Cathay Pacific Economy Class Review
Singapore Airlines Economy Class Review
Qatar Airways is a really nice airline, and I consider to fly with them whenever I need to hop on a plane!
I love getting bulkhead seats and it is always a 50/50 for me in getting them.
But now, I think it is a few weeks(?) ago, they changed the policy that you can select ANY seats on board (including exit rows and bulkhead) when booking their tickets! This is so much of a nice policy of them.
Just another reason why Qatar Airways is the best. Just make sure that you’re not in my exit row seat when I board 🙂
Do you pay for any seat selection?
Hi Sharon,
It depends on your ticket and booking class. The cheapest tickets usually don’t include free seat selection. Make sure of the fare rules when booking your ticket.
This not a review, just a thank you. I’m a terrified flyer, having been on one flight in the last 33 years — an air ambulance when my daughter was born in 2005, so definitely by necessity and not choice — and not a jet airliner since 1990. It’s reassuring that airlines have improved so much.
In late September 2023 my brother and I are flying with Qatar from Sydney to Paris; in mid-October, Rome to Sydney, both with 3 hour stop-overs in Doha.
I’m becoming less terrified, but it will all depend on taking the seat and strapping in for takeoff.
Hi Chris, I used to be a terrified flyer. But it’s just like taking a bus, I try not to overthink it. Enjoy your trip to Europe and flight on Qatar Airways.
Hi, many thanks to you both for your excellent review of Qatar economy class. We are flying to the Maldives via Doha in July. I have a question, which I can’t seem to get answered anywhere – you may be able to answer it as you often sit in the exit row seats. The question is, do the exit row seats (usually row 30) recline? We hope not – we are keen to sit in the row behind this row, if those exit row seats do not recline, as we find reclining seats in front of us a bit annoying! Could you let us have your thoughts? This will really help, as I am in the process of selecting seats for the flights. Many thanks in advance!
Hi Wendy,
The exit row seats do recline. I might be wrong, but I believe all seats on Qatar recline. It’s perhaps a good idea to book the row just behind the exit row. They are often empty ( since you have to pay more), and if they are empty you could ask a flight attendant to move to them if you want.
Enjoy your flight. And the MALDIVES!!!
Anyone tried the showers in Doha airport? I will be connecting through Doha in September. I will be flying with Qatar and looking forward to my flight after reading this.
Hi Diane,
We have not tried the showers at Hamad Airport. I’m sure they will be nice (and expensive if you don’t have lounge access). Let us know how it was, and have a nice flight.
Do you happen to know the size and weight requirements for your personal item in economy? They do not have specifics on their website, however, I’ve read complaints of them making people pack their item because of size. My coworker and I are flying from Washington D.C. to Bangkok with a 3-hour layover in Doha. We are both over packers, so we are trying to be really prepared and scale down as much as we can.
Hi Lori,
I believe economy class passengers get 1 piece of hand baggage up to 7 kg.A personal handbag/ tote bag/ backpack seem to be allowed in addition to your personal baggage. Dimensions for hand baggage are pretty standard among all airlines (50 x 37 x 25 cm) or (20x15x10in). We flew with Qatar on several occasions and they never questioned our hand baggage. Of course, if it looks too heavy or too big, they are likely to weigh or measure it.
Hi,
Do you receive free headphones to use with the inflight entertainment system?
I have read so much conflicting information.
Hey Lauren,
We received free headphones on all the flights we’ve taken with Qatar. I think it’s standard across all their routes – but I’m not 100% sure.
I had free wifi (autumn 2025) on flights from Montreal to Doha and Kazakhstan and back via Uzbekistan.
I agree about the head rests. They make such difference! There were 3 meals on the menu for both long flights but only 2 were offered. Don’t let see the choices in advance and then bait and switch with turkey sausage!!
I did a 3 night stopover. Really great program and interesting place to visit.. I may have to do it again for the things I missed!
Hi Martha,
Glad to hear you had a good flight, and sorry about the turkey sausage.
I just got off another Qatar flight last week (Johannesburg—Seoul)and I must say Qatar is still a damn fine airline. Wanted to do the stopover again but it wasn’t on offer due theF1 Grand Prix in Doha.
Also glad to have had complimentary WiFi for the entire flight (Doha-Seoul). Somehow it did not work on the Johannesburg – Doha legs.
The food was still really good.
I have read all your blogs, and travelled both Qatar and Cathay multiples time between JHB and end destination Bangkok. My question to you, Cathay or Qatar.?
Hi Phillip,
Man, this is a really tough question. Cathay and Qatar are both top airlines and I will fly either without hesitation. I prefer Cathay slightly over Qatar as I love to do a Hong Kong/ Macau/ Guangdong layover between flights. I have a soft spot for the region. I also think the Cathay seats are a little more comfortable. Food on Qatar is king though and they often have cheaper deals. It’s splitting hairs, really. In recent times I’d say Cathay is also more reliable in terms of any of the Gulf airlines