An impressive first impression

摘要

For those of you who might think the aviation industry lacks the glitz of a Hollywood gala, then you obviously haven't experienced the electricity brought on by the introduction of a new aircraft. Such an experience becomes even more dramatic when that event takes place in an exotic city in the Middle East. Those lucky enough to get an invite to the early January introduction of the new Airbus 350 XWB with launch customer Qatar Airways in the capital city of Doha, experienced just such a spectacle. More than 150 aviation journalists from around the world were given a first-hand peak at the aircraft, as well as city tours, a spectacular evening dinner cruise on a traditional dhow and a variety of other activities - including a vivid, 40-minute 3D presentation on Qatar's 2022 stint as host of the World Cup. Ah, the beautiful game in all its glory. And it didn't end there. On the night of the unveiling, the A350 XWB debuted to a brilliant light show, followed by music, dinner and more aircrafts tours.