First in Business!
The QSuite by Qatar Airways is often described as “First in Business” because it offers a level of luxury and privacy typically associated with first class, but within the business class cabin.
Qatar Airways’ QSuites have redefined the standard of luxury in business class, offering a level of comfort and privacy that was previously reserved for first class. Since its introduction in 2017, the QSuite has become one of the most sought-after experiences for travellers, especially those on long-haul flights.
Let’s explore the routes where QSuites are available, and I’ll also guide you on how to check if your flight is operated by an aircraft equipped with QSuites.
We can then look at which aircrafts from the Qatar Airways fleet is equipped with them, the various configurations, and the best seats to choose on each fleet.
Qatar Airways QSuites Overview
The QSuite is a unique business class product featuring sliding doors for privacy, lie-flat beds, and the ability to create a double bed or a quad suite for groups traveling together. This innovative design has earned Qatar Airways numerous awards and has set a new benchmark for business class travel.
Aircrafts Equipped with QSuites
Not all Qatar Airways aircraft are equipped with QSuites, so it’s essential to know which planes offer this premium product. As of 2024, the QSuites are available on the following aircrafts:
Airbus A350-1000: All of Qatar Airways’ A350-1000s are equipped with QSuites
Airbus A350-900: Not All
Boeing 777-300ER: Not All
Boeing 777-200LR: Not All
*Boeing Dreamliner 787-900: All Boeing 787-9 aircraft in Qatar Airways’ fleet are equipped with – pod style suites. They are smaller than the regular Qsuites featured on other aircrafts and the seats are angled and all forward facing. They feature the sliding doors for that extra privacy. These are similar to the ones Turkish Airlines fly on board their A350 900 acquired from Aeroflot.
Aircraft types such as the Boeing 787-800, Airbus A380, and Airbus A330 do not feature Qsuites.
Routes Featuring QSuites
Qatar Airways strategically deploys its QSuite-equipped aircraft on key routes, primarily targeting long-haul and ultra-long-haul flights.
Some of the popular routes include:
Doha (DOH) to New York (JFK)
Doha (DOH) to London Heathrow (LHR)
Doha (DOH) to Paris (CDG)
Doha (DOH) to Sydney (SYD)
Doha (DOH) to Singapore (SIN)
Doha (DOH) to Los Angeles (LAX)
Doha (DOH) to Auckland (AKL)
How do I know if my Qatar flight has Qsuite?
Here’s how to check which routes have the Q Suites:
Step 1. Go to the official site of Qatar Airways
Step 2. Enter from – to and dates you intend to travel and click search Flights
Step 3. Note the following screen which lists the flights available. One has the Q Suite on top of the flight number – the other does not.
Step 4. Click on “flight details” to open the right hand side so you can see the aircraft you will be flying with the QSuite
Step 5. Now click on the flight that does not have the QSuite and note the aircraft flying on this particular flight.
Step 6. Now that you know which flies the QSuite, you are ready to make your booking. Take a screenshot in case you get Qatar’d!
What if I get Qatar’d?
I got Qatar’d!
The term “I got Qatar’d” is commonly used by frequent flyers and aviation enthusiasts. It refers to a situation where a passenger originally booked on a Qatar Airways flight that was scheduled to feature QSuites ends up being switched to a different aircraft or seat configuration without QSuites. This can be disappointing for travellers who were looking forward to the luxury and privacy that QSuites provide.
I got Qatar’d a couple years ago and instead of the QSuite ended up with this 👇
This usually happens because Qatar Airways sometimes changes the aircraft type closer to the departure date, especially if there’s a need for operational adjustments. As a result, passengers who booked expecting the QSuites experience might find themselves on an older aircraft or a different configuration that doesn’t include QSuites.
The term captures the frustration of losing out on what is considered one of the best business class products in the world.
Unfortunately it happens often enough – hence the I got Qatar’d phrase.
Which routes or aircrafts are the ones most likely to be Qatar’d on?
To determine if your flight has QSuites and to avoid the frustration of getting “Qatar’d,” here are some strategies and tips you can follow:
1. Check the Aircraft Type Before Booking
(as shown above)
2. Use Seat Maps and Seat Selection Tools
- ExpertFlyer: This tool allows you to check the seat map of your flight before booking. If the seat map shows a 1-2-1 configuration with staggered seats, it’s a strong indicator that QSuites are available.
- Aerolopa: This site provides fantastic seat map information on each aircraft of every airline. Its user friendly and so much more detailed than the standard seat maps offered elsewhere.
3. Monitor Your Booking
- Flight Changes: Qatar Airways sometimes changes aircrafts close to the departure date. After booking, keep an eye on your booking by regularly checking the seat map. If the layout changes from 1-2-1 to 2-2-2, it’s likely that your flight has been switched to a non-QSuites aircraft.
- App Notifications: Use the Qatar Airways app to monitor your flight for any changes in aircraft type.
4. Use Flight Review Websites
- FlyerTalk and Reddit: Frequent flyers often post their experiences with specific flights, including whether they had QSuites or not. Checking recent posts can give you insights into which routes are more prone to aircraft changes.
- Routes and Reviews: Websites like FlightRadar24 allow you to check the aircraft history on specific routes. If you see that an aircraft type has been inconsistent, it could indicate a higher risk of being “Qatar’d.”
For example I enter Flight QR 920 into flight aware and search the history of which aircraft was used on this particular route to see what the likelihood is of getting a different aircraft other than the one specified at time of booking. I can see that for the last 10 days it has used the A350 1000 and has not changed. I can also see the en route flight and upcoming flights are both scheduled to fly the A350 1000. It is therefore unlikely that Qatar would fly anything else other than the QSuites on this particular route.
5. Contact Qatar Airways
- Before Booking: If you’re unsure, contacting Qatar Airways customer service can sometimes confirm if a flight is scheduled to have QSuites.
- After Booking: If you notice a change in your booking, calling Qatar Airways can help you understand your options or switch to another flight with QSuites.
Routes Most Likely to Be “Qatar’d”
- Shorter Long-Haul Routes: Flights that are long-haul but on the shorter side (e.g., 6-8 hours) are sometimes the most likely to be switched to non-QSuites aircraft due to operational demands.
- Seasonal and Less Frequent Routes: Routes that are not daily or are seasonal may see more last-minute aircraft changes.
- Certain Aircraft: The Boeing 777-300ER and Airbus A350-900 have mixed configurations, so there’s a higher chance of being “Qatar’d” on these aircrafts as opposed to the A350 1000.
By following these tips and being proactive, you can minimize the chances of being “Qatar’d” and increase the likelihood of enjoying the luxurious QSuites experience on your next flight with Qatar Airways.
Aircraft Configurations and Best Seats
Airbus A350-1000(2 configurations – 24 Suite cabin & 46 Suite Cabin)
- Configuration: 1-2-1
- Best Seats: For solo travelers, the window seats (A, K) offer the most privacy. For couples, the middle seats (E, F) can be converted into a double bed.
Airbus A350-900 (36 QSuites)
- Configuration: 1-2-1 (mostly consistent with the A350-1000)
- Best Seats: Similar to the A350-1000, window seats are best for privacy. The middle seats are ideal for those traveling together.
Boeing 777-300ER (2 configurations – 24 Suite cabin & 42 Suite Cabin)
- Configuration: 1-2-1
- Best Seats: Row 5 (A, K) is considered the best for those seeking extra privacy as they are located at the front. Couples should opt for the middle seats.
Boeing 777-200LR (42 QSuites)
- Configuration: 1-2-1
- Best Seats: The front section of the business class section offers more privacy, with seats 1A and 1K being top choices.
Seats to Avoid in QSuite
While the QSuite is designed to be one of the most comfortable business class experiences available, there are a few seats that some passengers may prefer to avoid:
- Seats Near the Galley
- Reason: Seats close to the galley can be noisier due to the proximity to the kitchen and crew activity. This can be a minor inconvenience for light sleepers or those who prefer a quieter environment.
- Seats Near the Lavatories
- Reason: Seats near the lavatories might experience more foot traffic and occasional noise from passengers using the restroom. If you’re sensitive to disturbances, you might want to choose a seat farther away from these areas.
- Middle Aisle Seats (If Traveling Alone)
- Reason: If you’re traveling alone, the middle aisle seats (D and G) might offer less privacy than the window seats (A and K). These seats are ideal for couples or companions but might not be the best choice for solo travelers who want maximum privacy.
*On the Qatar Airways Boeing 777, which has the 24-business class seat configuration, seats 6B and 6J are windowless. This can be a surprise for passengers expecting a traditional window seat experience. These seats are located in a part of the aircraft where the windows are either missing or blocked by the aircraft structure.
Forward and Backward Facing QSuite Seats
Unlike other airlines such as Japan Airlines who have forward facing seats in all their suites onboard their JAL A350-1000, or Cathay Pacifics new Aria Suites which are reverse herringbone, the mix of forward and backward-facing seats is a distinctive feature of the QSuite. Here’s how it works:
- Forward-Facing Seats: These are the traditional seats that face the front of the aircraft. They are typically more popular with passengers who prefer the standard seating orientation.
*These seats are closer to the aisle and may feel more exposed compared to the backward-facing window seats, which offer more privacy as they are adjacent to the window - Backward-Facing Seats: These seats face the rear of the aircraft. Although some passengers might be hesitant about backward-facing seats, many find them just as comfortable and even report that they feel more stable during flight.
- Seat Pairing: In the middle section of the cabin (E and F seats), the forward and backward seats are often paired together, allowing them to be converted into a double bed. This setup is perfect for couples traveling together.
- Quad Configuration: The backward and forward-facing seats in the middle can also be adjusted to create a quad suite, where four passengers can sit facing each other. This configuration is ideal for families or groups who want to travel together in a shared space.
Tips for Securing QSuites
- Check the Aircraft Type: Before booking, verify the aircraft type to ensure it features QSuites. Qatar Airways often indicates this on their website during the booking process (as shown above).
- Select the Right Seat: Use the information above to choose the best seat based on your preferences.
- Book Early: QSuites are in high demand, especially on popular routes, so it’s wise to book as early as possible.
- Frequent Flyer Points: Consider using frequent flyer points or miles to secure a QSuite, especially on long-haul routes. Use a point redemption value calculator to ensure you are getting value for money/points.
If you have Amex Points this still provides good value as it is currently 2:1 conversion. Alternatively if you are a Virgin Velocity points collector, you can book a Qatar reward ticket through their program, provided you can find a reward seat.
Here’s what that looks like:
Key Features of the QSuite
Private Suite with Sliding Doors:
Each QSuite is a fully enclosed private suite with sliding doors, offering unmatched privacy in a business class cabin. This design allows you to create your own personal space, shielded from the rest of the cabin, making it feel more like a first-class experience.
Lie-Flat Bed:
The QSuite features a fully lie-flat bed that stretches to nearly 79 inches, ensuring a restful sleep on long-haul flights. The bed is equipped with high-quality bedding and pillows, further enhancing your comfort.
Customizable Configuration:
The QSuite is designed to be highly flexible, allowing passengers to customize their seating arrangement based on their travel needs. There are several configurations available:
Single Suite
Best For: Solo travelers who prioritize privacy.
Description: The single suite is located by the window (seats A and K), offering the most privacy. With the sliding door closed, you have a fully enclosed space, perfect for working, relaxing, or sleeping.
Double Suite
Best For: Couples or close travel companions.
Description: The middle seats (E and F) in the QSuite can be converted into a double suite, with the privacy divider lowered to create a double bed. This configuration allows you and your partner to enjoy the flight together while still having the option to close the sliding doors for privacy.
Quad Suite
Best For: Families or groups of up to four.
Description: The QSuite’s unique quad configuration allows four seats (two middle pairs) to be arranged facing each other, creating a private area for families or groups traveling together. The central panels can be lowered to create a communal space, perfect for dining or socializing together during the flight.
Advanced In-Flight Entertainment:
Each QSuite is equipped with a large high-definition screen and Qatar Airways’ award-winning Oryx One entertainment system, offering a vast selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games. Noise-canceling headphones are provided to enhance your entertainment experience.
Gourmet Dining:
Qatar Airways offers an à la carte dining experience in QSuite, with a menu featuring a variety of international and local dishes. Passengers can dine on demand, choosing when and what to eat throughout the flight. The meals are served on elegant tableware, creating a fine dining experience at 35,000 feet.
You dont even need to be on the QSuite to enjoy their dining experience. On a bleisure trip i took last year, i got Qatar’d and got placed on one of their leased aircrafts from Virgin. Their dinner was exquisite. I will never forget their dessert – a chocolate ganache mousse style cake that blew me away. I would travel this aircraft just to eat that masterpiece all over again!
Summing Up
The QSuite by Qatar Airways is a groundbreaking business class product that offers exceptional comfort, privacy, and flexibility. Whether you’re flying solo, with a partner, or in a group, the QSuite can be tailored to meet your needs. By choosing the right seat and configuration, you can enhance your flying experience and enjoy the luxury that Qatar Airways is renowned for.
As you prepare for your travels onboard Qatar, don’t forget to check out my ultimate travel packing list to make sure you have everything you need.
It’s always good to know which aircraft and routes feature the QSuites so you are able to make informed decisions.
Because there’s business class and then there is First in Business.
