Qatar Airways has launched scheduled flights to Serbia, its latest entry into Eastern Europe and the airline’s 11th new route of the year. The Doha-based carrier inaugurated the first of three weekly services to the country’s capital city of Belgrade, gateway to Serbia’s historic and cultural attractions. The airline’s newest route also marks an expansion of its global network, now reaching 121 destinations as part of Qatar Airways’ ongoing commitment to serving emerging and popular markets, both in Europe and further afield. Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker was joined on the inaugural flight by His Excellency Mihailo Brkic, Ambassador of the Embassy of the Republic of Serbia to Kuwait and responsible for Qatar, together with international media. Flight QR462 touched down in Belgrade and was received by an airport arrival ceremony, where guests were treated to a traditional Serbian folklore dance performance. The ceremony was attended by more than 50 local dignitaries, VIPs and media, including Qatar’s Ambassador to Romania His Excellency Saad Mohamed Al-Kobaisi; Serbian State Secretary for Tourism, Mr. Goran Petkovi?; and Chief Executive Officer of Airport Nikola Tesla Mr. Velimir Radosavljevi?. Al Baker said that the latest route marked yet another significant milestone for the award-winning airline that has now spread its international wings to 31 gateways across Europe and 11 new destinations so far this year. “Serbia’s capital Belgrade is renowned across Europe for its buzzing nightlife and unique cultural attractions. With world-class entertainment and hospitality on offer, we are very proud to provide both our business and leisure travellers worldwide with new seamless connections to one of Europe’s most exciting and vibrant cities,” said Al Baker. “As a modern, democratic European country, and well on the path to membership of the European Union, visitors can enjoy numerous cultural, entertainment, traditional and sporting events held in Serbia all year round, demonstrating the creative power and spiritual vitality of this country.