Qatar Airways is to withhold certain ancillaries and services from trade sales as part of a shake-up of its fare categories.
The airline is dividing fares into three economy and three business class categories that it says will simplify the sales process, but has indicated it will hold some components back from agents.
It said: “Qatar Airways will reserve a number of ancillary products and services across each of its fare families to customers booking directly with the airline.
“These include the option to exchange tickets for a future travel voucher and discounts of up to 40% at Qatar Duty Free retail and food and beverage outlets at Hamad International airport.”
There are now three fare categories in each of Economy and Business class. TTG has contacted the carrier for a full explanation.
In a press release, Qatar Airways group chief executive Akbar Al Baker said: “With these new categorisations, it is very clear to the customer what they are buying”, but failed to give full details.
Meanwhile the airline has confirmed the main cabin will offer Economy Classic, Convenience and Comfort.
Qatar Airways has not specified the basic luggage allowance, but said passengers will receive an extra 5kg of checked luggage allowance in Economy Convenience and 10kg extra in Economy Elite.
It said Economy Comfort passengers would also benefit from preferred seating and could make unlimited change to travel dates plus receive free refunds.
In Business Class, the categories are Classic, Comfort and Elite, with Elite offering full flexibility.
Members of the airline’s Privilege Club frequent flier programme earn incremental points according to which fare class they select.