Qatar chief named as Oneworld Alliance chairman

Al Baker will oversee the alliance’s governance, chair the governing board meetings and work closely with Oneworld CEO Rob Gurney and the alliance’s management team.

Having led Qatar Airways since its launch in 1997, Al Baker is the longest-serving CEO of a Oneworld member airline. Under his leadership, Qatar Airways has grown into one of the world’s most highly-awarded airlines with an extensive global network, with plans to serve over 140 destinations by end of July 2021. Qatar Airways became a member of Oneworld in October 2013.

An influential figure in the global aviation industry, he served as chairman of the IATA board of governors from June 2018 to June 2019. He has served on that board since 2012. He is also a member of the executive committee of the Arab Air Carriers Organisation and a non-executive director of Heathrow Airport Holdings. In addition, he serves as Secretary-General of Qatar National Tourism Council.

Al Baker, said: “I am honoured to have been chosen by my fellow board members to head the oneworld alliance governing board at a time when the industry is facing its biggest challenge. To represent and lead the Oneworld alliance is a tremendous privilege, and I am grateful for the opportunity to represent an alliance that has played a pivotal role in maintaining global connectivity to support the transportation of essential workers, medical equipment and aid supplies throughout the pandemic.”

H.E. Akbar Al Baker appointed chairman of Oneworld Alliance (Image Oneworld)