While the subsidies dispute between Middle East carriers and those in Europe – including Air France-KLM – and those in the US rages on, the President of the Republic of France, Francois Hollande conferred the prestigious Honor of ‘Officier de la Légion d’Honneur’ to Qatar Airways’ group chief executive, Akbar Al Baker.

The Legion of Honor medal was bestowed in the ‘Salon des Ambassadeurs’, at the Elysée Palace in early June for Al Baker’s leadership in the aviation industry and for spearheading Qatar Airways to be a leading global airline. During the ceremony, the significance of this honour was conveyed, announcing the service and commitment that Al Baker as an airline group chief executive has had towards the global aviation industry and also to France at-large.

“France is a country that I admire for its ingenuity, grandeur and long legacy of craftsmanship of the highest calibre,” said Al Baker. “I humbly accept this Honor with immense pride and great appreciation to the people and culture of France in all of their contribution to Qatar Airways, the national airline of my country.”

Al Baker was commended for his vigour and leadership in spearheading a legacy of collaboration between Airbus and Qatar Airways – a first for the industry – where there has been a highly intricate level of coordination between design and implementation by the manufacturer and operator. The high quality product and service delivery presented on each Qatar Airways flight was also recognised for the standards and advancements it has made in hospitality, for each of its guests onboard. The efficiency of Qatar Airways’ operations was praised for its precision and timely effectiveness.

Qatar Airways’ contribution to the Hamad International Airport was recognised recognised, not only for the airline’s benefit but for the entire travelling public that travels to Doha and beyond.