Following the closure of Qatari airspace on Feb. 28 and subsequent attacks at its primary hub, Hamad International Airport in Doha, the airline canceled flights and has grounded its aircraft abroad, including the one parked on a remote apron at SFO.
Bay Area travelers landing at SFO may notice a Qatar Airways Airbus A350-1000, capable of flying the 15-hour nonstop flight from San Francisco to Doha, parked in a remote section of the airport away from the main passenger terminals. The aircraft has remained grounded since its arrival on Feb. 28, with no announced plans by the airline to move it any time soon.
SFO spokesperson Doug Yakel said the airline paid to park it at the airport.
Qatar Airways announced Monday that it will operate a limited number of repatriation flights this week, not including flights to North America. Most flights remain suspended until the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority announces the safe reopening of airspace, but it remains unclear when that will happen.
Fellow Middle Eastern carrier Emirates restarted services last week from SFO to its hub in Dubai — about 280 miles from Doha, roughly the same distance as San Francisco to Santa Barbara.
As the conflict with Iran continues, it remains uncertain when the Qatar Airways aircraft and passengers in the Bay Area will return to the skies.
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Keep the discussion civilized. Absolutely NO personal attacks or insults directed toward writers, nor others who make comments.
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PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
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