The CEO of Qatar Airways has resigned following his controversial remarks in 2018 that caused widespread outrage. Akbar Al Baker is stepping down as CEO of Qatar Airways, ending one of the longest tenures in aviation history.
Al Baker, the airline’s leader since 1997, will step down on Nov. 5. Qatar Airways’ unexpected move left no reason for his departure undisclosed. The airline announced that Badr Mohammed Al Meer, the chief operating officer of Doha Hamad Airport, will replace him. Al Baker, a prominent executive, is credited with transforming Qatar Airways into a top airline. In his 27 years, he expanded and invested in Doha airport, making it a global hub. Al Baker is the airport’s CEO.
Al Baker was known for his controversial views on the airline industry. In June, he called the industry’s net zero targets a “PR exercise” and predicted they would be missed. In 2018, Al Baker apologized for sexist comments at an International Air Transport Association meeting. Al Baker believes Middle East airlines should be led by men due to the challenging nature of the position. Al Baker apologized for his comments and expressed a willingness to support the development of a female CEO for Qatar Airways.
