Brummie football fans can book their World Cup flights now after a new service direct to Qatar kicked off today.

The first Qatar Airways from Birmingham Airport to Doha – the home of the 2022 World Cup – started today.

It means Birmingham is only the fourth UK airport to fly to Qatar, after Heathrow, Manchester and Edinburgh, and comes after the airport launched its first service using the giant A830.

The flights to Hamad International Airport will be on a Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft and will depart from Birmingham eight times a week.

Qatar Airways chief executive Akbar Al Baker said: “This vibrant and economically powerful region represents an important addition to our worldwide network and is a testament to our commitment to the UK.

The Doha skyline
The Doha skyline

“Passengers now have access to more than 150 global destinations, accessed via 73 flights per week from the UK, facilitated by smooth transfers through our home and hub, Hamad International Airport.”

The inaugural flight touched down at sunrise on March 30 and was greeted by a traditional water salute.

While the potential for a World Cup visit will interest many, it is Birmingham’s business credentials which attracted the airline.

The British Ambassador to Qatar, Ajay Sharma said “The launch of this new route will open up further opportunities for both Qatar and the UK Just like Doha, Birmingham and the surrounding area is host to a number of investment projects and tourist destinations that will appeal to investors and visitors. I am certain that this route will successfully enhance the partnership between our two countries.”

Video: The first Qatar Airways plane arrives

Video Loading

The flights will comprise of 22 seats in business class and 232 economy class seats, all with televisions screens and in-flight entertainment comprised of up to 3,000 options.

They will open up new connections to countries such as Pakistan and Australia.

Birmingham Airport chief executive Paul Kehoe said it was a major boost for the airport.

He said: “Connecting the economically vibrant West Midlands region with the rapidly developing capital city of Doha will be hugely beneficial to passengers at both ends of the route. Additionally, the large selection of onward connections on Qatar’s network gives our long-haul travellers access to more of the most popular destinations around the world from Birmingham.”

From today, on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, the flights will arrive in Birmingham at 6.50am and depart at 8.55am.

On Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, the flights will arrive here at 12.20pm and depart at 4.20pm.