Qatar Airways has announced the appointment of Calum Laming as its new Chief Customer Officer, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to delivering world-class customer experiences as it enters its next phase of growth.
The announcement comes as Qatar Airways successfully restores 85% of its network operations following disruptions caused by the conflict in the Middle East. Having achieved its target by mid-June, the airline has now unveiled its Summer 2026 schedule, featuring more than 140 daily flights from Doha to over 160 destinations worldwide.
With network recovery largely complete, the airline is shifting its focus toward expansion and service excellence. Key priorities include enhancing customer experience across every touchpoint, developing the next generation of its award-winning Qsuite business-class product, expanding passenger and cargo operations through a modern fleet, and investing in workforce development.
To support these ambitions, Qatar Airways has made two significant leadership appointments, both effective from November 1, 2026.
Calum Laming, a seasoned aviation executive with dual Irish and British citizenship, will take charge as Chief Customer Officer. In his new role, he will oversee the airline’s brand strategy and customer experience initiatives, ensuring consistency and excellence throughout the passenger journey.
Laming brings extensive global experience in customer and brand leadership. He most recently served as Chief Customer Officer at British Airways and previously held senior customer experience roles at Vueling Airlines, Etihad Airways, Air New Zealand, and Virgin Atlantic. His appointment underscores Qatar Airways’ focus on strengthening customer-centric innovation and service delivery.
Alongside Laming’s appointment, Qatar Airways has promoted Abdulla Ali to Chief Operating Officer. Previously serving as Senior Vice President of Ground Services, Ali will now oversee the Group’s operational functions, with responsibility for performance, accountability, operational efficiency, and safety standards. He brings deep expertise across airline, airport, and network operations and has a strong track record of leading high-performing teams.
Commenting on the appointments, Group CEO Hamad Al-Khater said the leadership changes reflect the airline’s vision for the future. He emphasized that both executives will play a key role in accelerating growth, strengthening operational excellence, and ensuring customer needs remain at the center of every strategic decision.
The appointments signal Qatar Airways’ continued investment in leadership, innovation, and talent development as the airline positions itself for long-term growth in the global aviation market.
