Qatar Airways is set to break new ground in global aviation with the launch of direct flights to Bogotá, Colombia, and Caracas, Venezuela, beginning in early summer 2025. This move cements Qatar Airways as the first and only Middle Eastern carrier to offer non-stop connectivity to Colombia and the only Gulf airline operating in Venezuela. The addition of these two destinations expands the airline’s footprint in the Americas to 16 cities, reinforcing its commitment to long-haul travel and global connectivity.
Connecting Doha to Latin America
The new route will link Doha’s Hamad International Airport (DOH) with Bogotá’s El Dorado International Airport (BOG) on a non-stop flight before continuing to Caracas’ Simón Bolívar International Airport (CCS). The return leg will operate non-stop from Caracas to Doha, making this one of Qatar Airways’ longest flights in the Americas, spanning over 8,000 miles.
The service, operating twice weekly on Wednesdays and Sundays, will utilise the Boeing 777-200LR, featuring 42 Business Class seats and 234 Economy Class seats. Passengers can expect Qatar Airways’ signature world-class service on these ultra-long-haul routes, which are expected to boost both business and leisure travel between the Middle East and South America.
Strategic Expansion into Latin America
Qatar Airways’ expansion into Latin America underscores its strategic vision of connecting underserved markets. Bogotá, a key economic hub in South America, is one of the fastest-growing aviation markets, while Caracas remains a significant gateway to Venezuela despite ongoing economic challenges.
A major logistical challenge in this expansion was Bogotá’s high altitude of 8,360 feet, which limits an aircraft’s ability to carry a full fuel load for a direct return to Doha. To overcome this, Qatar Airways strategically placed Caracas as a stopover, taking advantage of its much lower elevation to refuel and ensure an uninterrupted long-haul service back to the Middle East.
Competitive Landscape in Latin America
With this move, Qatar Airways steps into direct competition with Emirates, which launched its one-stop Miami-Bogotá service in June 2024. Unlike Qatar Airways’ direct flight, Emirates’ routing requires passengers to transit through the United States, which can be cumbersome for those requiring a visa. Qatar Airways’ non-stop service from Bogotá to Doha presents a seamless alternative for travellers seeking greater efficiency.
Additionally, Turkish Airlines has been operating flights to Caracas with up to twice-daily service from Istanbul. Qatar Airways’ new route provides an alternative Gulf-based carrier for Middle Eastern and Asian travellers heading to Venezuela, diversifying options for passengers looking to avoid US or European layovers.
Transforming Long-Haul Travel
Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Qatar Airways Group CEO, described the new routes as a “transformative moment” for the airline:
“These routes embody our commitment to pioneering travel experiences and redefining global connectivity with our award-winning service. As the first airline to connect the Middle East directly to Colombia and the only Middle Eastern carrier in Venezuela, we are unlocking new opportunities to connect people, cultures, and commerce.”
The new routes align with broader industry trends, where airlines are increasingly investing in non-traditional intercontinental connections to capture emerging travel demand. By expanding its Latin American presence beyond São Paulo, Qatar Airways strengthens its global hub model, ensuring faster, one-stop access to Asia, Africa, and the Middle East for South American travellers.
Looking Ahead
Qatar Airways’ expansion into Bogotá and Caracas represents a major milestone in long-haul travel, solidifying the airline’s position as a leader in bridging continents. By offering seamless access to the Middle East and beyond, Qatar Airways not only strengthens its own network but also enhances trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between South America and the Gulf region.
With its ambitious global expansion strategy, Qatar Airways continues to redefine the aviation landscape, further positioning itself as a powerhouse in international air travel.