DOHA: Akbar Al Baker has stepped down as the CEO of Qatar Airways after 27 years of service, sources close to the airline said on Monday.

In his resignation letter sent to Qatar Airways staff and seen by The Arabian Stories, Al Baker, who was instrumental in shaping the national carrier into a world-class airline, reflected on his 27-years of journey.  “I look back on the years with immense pride. You have not only made me, but also my beloved country proud. I want to express my deepest gratitude for the trust and confidence you’ve placed in me over the years,” he said.

However, it was not immediately clear why Al Baker, who was appointed CEO in 1997, is retiring. Under his leadership, Qatar Airways grew from four aircrafts to more than 200 and flying to more than 130 destinations.

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