Kuwait Airways, based in Kuwait city, is the national airline owned by the Kuwait government. It operates international flights to the Middle East, Indian subcontinent, Europe and the United States.
Founded in 1953 by two Kuwaiti businessmen, Kuwait National Airways started operations in 1954. In 1958, the name Kuwait National Airways was changed to Kuwait Airways and its fleet was modernized. During the Gulf war, most of their flights were invaded and they had to leave.
There were two hijackings during the Iran–Iraq war and in 1988 a Boeing 747 was also hijacked. Due to these attacks, Kuwait Airways has taken safety as its first priority. As of March 2008 Kuwait Airways offered employment to 3,945 people.
Kuwait Airways fleet consists of 22 aircrafts which fall under the category of Airbuses and Boeing planes. The airline plans to buy 7 Airbuses of A320, 12 Boeing 787 and 788, 6 340–600 Airbuses, 8 300–600 Airbus, and 2 Boeing 777-300 ERs.
With a total of 35 new aircrafts, Kuwait Airways is looking to have more than 80 aircrafts heading to over 100 destinations by 2012. Kuwait Airways is one of the fastest growing airlines in Asia and in the future we expect it to give other airlines stiff competition.
Important dates in Kuwait Airways history:
1. 1954- On this year Kuwait National Airway company was founded.
2. 1955- The government acquired half interest on the airline and therefore the company was renamed to Kuwait Airways Corporation.
3. 1962- The government of Kuwait decided to buy the whole company and the first jets joined the fleet.
4. 1978 - The company received its first Boeing 747 Jumbo Jet.
5. 1983 - The Airbus jets replaced all Boeings in short and medium range fleets.
6. 1990- The Iraq war claimed most of the airlines assets therefore operations continued from the Cairo base.
7. 1995 -The introduction of Oasis Frequent Flyer Club in the airline gave clients a chance to redeem their miles.
8. 2004 – Kuwait Airways Corporation had plans to restructure and privatize the airline.
Whether you are flying to Geneva, Beirut, Jeddah or London, Kuwait Airways guarantees to offer you the best service possible. With their friendly staff and ever ready to serve flight attendants, Kuwait airlines stands out from the rest. As you travel to the Middle East or on any of Kuwait Airlines routes, choose this airline and enjoy their outstanding service.
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