Qatar Airways Economy Class Review: London to Zanzibar via Doha
By Mr Plane Guy Travel Blogger, Flight and Travel Expert
Travelling with Qatar Airways is often associated with luxury, but what is the economy class experience really like? Recently, I flew with Qatar Airways from London Heathrow to Zanzibar via Doha. Here’s an in-depth review of my flights, including details on the Qatar Airways economy class product, the stopover experience in Doha, and my onward flight to Zanzibar on a smaller A320.
Flight 1: London Heathrow to Doha on Qatar Airways A350
Flight Information
Aircraft Model: Airbus A350-900 (A7-AML)
Seat Configuration: 283 seats (36 Business, 247 Economy)
Flight Duration: 6h 9m
Distance: 6,964km / 4,298mi
Departure: 28 Oct 16:03 GMT (33 minutes late)
Arrival: 29 Oct 01:13 UTC+03
First Impressions
My journey began at London Heathrow, one of the busiest airports in the world. Boarding Qatar Airways' Airbus A350-900, I was impressed by the aircraft's modern and clean design. The cabin was equipped with soothing mood lighting, creating a calm atmosphere.
Seat Configuration: The A350 features a 3-3-3 layout in economy class. My seat was mid-cabin, offering average legroom. For extra comfort, I recommend choosing an exit row or bulkhead seat. You can explore the Qatar Airways economy seat map to plan your seating.
Entertainment and Connectivity
Qatar Airways’ Oryx One entertainment system is one of the best in the industry. With an extensive library of movies, TV shows, and music, there was no shortage of options. The screen was sharp, and the interface was user-friendly. I did notice though a lot of programmes and movies are slightly edited to align with Qatar's strict muslim laws which I respect and understand.
Quite a clever feature to Qatar Airwaaysentertain system!
Does Qatar Airways have WiFi? Yes, the A350 offers Wi-Fi, but the connection was inconsistent. It’s sufficient for checking emails or browsing, but don’t expect to stream videos.
Food and Beverage
The food and beverage service was a mixed bag. Dinner included a chicken and rice dish that lacked flavor, a small bread roll, and a pre-packaged dessert. While drinks are complimentary, my gin and tonic was 90% gin and undrinkable. A promised refill of wine with my meal never materialised, leaving me unimpressed with the service.
Qatar Airways economy class food is known for its variety, but this flight fell short of expectations as Qatar Market themselves as a 5 star airline.
Service
The cabin crew were polite but inconsistent. Requests were forgotten, and the overall service felt economy and nothing more.
Stopover in Doha
Landing at Hamad International Airport was a refreshing experience. The airport’s modern design, combined with efficient operations, makes it a traveller’s dream.
Things to do in Doha
Check out things to do in Doha, even if you have a few hours stopover in DOHA Airport check out the huge variety of tours Get Your Guide do, their is something for everyone and every duration of stop over!
Flight 2: Doha to Zanzibar on Qatar Airways A320
Flight Information
Flight Number: Qatar Airways QR1487 (QTR1487)
Aircraft Model: Airbus A320 (A7-AHR)
Seat Configuration: 132 seats (12 Business, 120 Economy)
Flight Duration: 5h 29m
Distance: 7,978km / 4,924mi (Direct: 3,753km, +52%)
Departure: 29 Oct 02:11 UTC+03 (31 minutes late)
Arrival: 29 Oct 07:40 EAT (10 minutes late)
Check-in Experience
Check-in at Doha was thorough, with Qatar Airways meticulously verifying Tanzanian visa and health insurance requirements. While this process added time, it reassured me that I had all my documents in order. A few days before the flight checking in online I noticed an offer to upgrade for less than £300! I couldn't believe it but during deciding about this Qatar upgrade from Economy to business class offer the price quickly changed back up to £1400 for an upgrade to business class on this sector!
If you see an offer of a cheap upgrade from Economy to Business Class with Qatar TAKE IT and quick!
Whilst at the check in counter I asked again how much an upgrade to business class would be? I was told I would need to go to another desk and the check in agent pointed to her right to desks by the airport entrance, perhaps ticket desks, so once we checked in over we went, the gentleman checked for us but took a long time, he then saidd we should check another desk just before security, so ver we went.
Gues what? Yes this gentleman asked us to check at a specific desk in the departures lounge, he gave us the specific desk number (Forgot it now) and once we were through security and had an arabic coffee we went over and asked. Once again after around 5 minutes of tapping we we asked to go to desk number 5! This time within 90 minutes of departure! You could't make this up, my partner went along about an hour later and the after all of that the price to upgrade from economy to business class with Qatar airways was still £1400.
Top Tip: Don't leave upgrading your flight to the airport!
Onboard the A320
The A320, a narrow-body aircraft, felt noticeably smaller compared to the spacious A350. Luckily, I was assigned an exit row seat, providing additional legroom plus we had a seat between my partner and I (RESULT!) The cabin configuration features a 3-3 layout in economy class, which is standard for narrow-body aircraft.
Qatar Airways economy seat map highlights the best seats for comfort—exit rows and bulkhead seats offer the most legroom.
Food and Service
The food on this leg was disappointing. Shortly after takeoff, we were served a soggy sandwich that lacked flavor. Three hours before landing, breakfast was offered, consisting of a bland pastry and a lukewarm coffee. Compared to other airlines, Qatar Airways economy class food on the A320 left much to be desired.
The service was efficient but lacked the personal touch.
Arrival in Zanzibar
Disembarking at Zanzibar Airport was chaotic. The arrivals hall was packed with passengers from multiple airlines, including Norse Airlines and Condor. Passport control was disorganised, with people pushing in line, resulting in over an hour of queuing.
ZANZIBAR Related Links:
Tips for Flying Qatar Airways Economy
1. Upgrading to Business Class
If you’re looking to upgrade, Qatar Airways often offers deals closer to departure. I missed an online offer to upgrade my Doha-Zanzibar leg for less than £300. At the airport, I was passed between five different desks trying to inquire about upgrades—frustrating and time-consuming.
To upgrade successfully:
Look out for online offers through the Manage Booking section.
Enroll in Qatar’s Privilege Club for possible upgrades using Avios points.
2. Qatar Privilege Club and Avios
Qatar Airways’ loyalty program, Privilege Club, is now integrated with the Avios system. As a member of the Oneworld Alliance, you can earn and redeem points across multiple airlines, including British Airways.
For this trip, I earned significant Avios points that can be used for upgrades, free flights, or even luxury experiences. Signing up is free, and Qatar frequently offers promotions to boost your points balance.
3. Best Seats in Economy
On the A350: Bulkhead or exit row seats offer the most legroom.
On the A320: Exit row seats are your best bet.
Check the Qatar Airways economy seat map for detailed seating arrangements before choosing your seat.
4. Baggage Allowance
Qatar Airways economy baggage allowance typically includes one carry-on bag (7kg) and one checked bag (23kg). Be aware that carry-on size limits are strictly enforced, so ensure your bag meets the requirements.
FAQs About Qatar Airways Economy Class
1. Is Qatar Airways a good economy?
Yes, Qatar Airways economy is generally excellent, offering a comfortable cabin, great entertainment, and attentive service. However, food quality and service consistency can vary.
2. Are drinks free on Qatar Airways economy?
Yes, drinks are complimentary, including alcoholic beverages.
3. How can I upgrade to business class in Qatar?
Look out for upgrade offers on the Qatar Airways website or inquire at the airport. Using Avios points is another way to upgrade.
4. How strict is Qatar Airways on carry-on size?
They are strict—ensure your bag meets the size and weight limits.
5. Which seat is best in Qatar Airways economy?
Exit row and bulkhead seats provide the most comfort, especially on longer flights.
Final Thoughts for take off
While Qatar Airways’ economy class offers a solid product, my experience was mixed. The A350 impressed with its modern design and top-notch entertainment, but the food and inconsistent service fell short of expectations. The A320, while convenient for a direct flight to Zanzibar, lacked the polish of the larger aircraft.
Would I fly Qatar Airways economy again? Yes, but with tempered expectations. For those willing to splurge, upgrading to business class can transform the experience entirely.
Have you flown with Qatar Airways?
If you’re a frequent traveller with certain premium credit cards (such as American Express Platinum), you might already have complimentary access after meeting huge spend requirements and credit terms.
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Related Links:
How I Traveled Business Class on Qatar Airways for Less Than £250
24 Hours in Doha: A Guide to Making the Most of Your Stopover
Is the Plaza Premium Lounge at Heathrow T4 Worth the Hype? Find out HERE
Why W Hotel Doha Should be Your Next Stylish Stay in Qatar: Hotel Review
24 Hours in Doha:Â A Guide to Making the Most of Your Stopover
Hello I’m Paul a Travel and flight expert, I spent most of my career working in and around planes with 15 years providing top-notch service with a London-based airline. I became an expert in travel after soaring across the Atlantic up to 10 times a month!
I’m now, producing travel content, reaching millions of viewers monthly. Reporting on travel news, sharing travel tips, reviews, and deals with a sprinkle of humour and a whole lot of authenticity!
I hope you enjoyed this Qatar Airways Economy Class Review: London to Zanzibar via Doha do let me know in the comments........
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