SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 617

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize the Doha-based Qatar Airways Company and chief executive officer Akbar Al Baker on the occasion of the airline's recent inaugural flight to Houston; and

WHEREAS, The new daily service links Houston and Doha, the world's energy capitals; Qatar Airways Company operates a hub and spoke network linking more than 80 destinations across Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America; and

WHEREAS, Qatar Airways was founded in 1993; it is headquartered in Doha, Qatar, and its parent company is the government of Qatar; it is among only six airlines that have been awarded a five-star rating by Skytrax; and

WHEREAS, The airline's freight branch, Qatar Airways Cargo, will handle 750,000 tons of cargo yearly with the opening of the New Doha International Airport; and

WHEREAS, The inaugural flight of Qatar Airways from Doha to Houston is cause for much celebration; on March 31, 2009, chief executive officer Akbar Al Baker hosted an elegant dinner with live entertainment provided by LeAnn Rimes to mark this special occasion; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 81st Legislature, hereby extend congratulations to Akbar Al Baker and Qatar Airways Company on its inaugural flight from Doha to Houston and best wishes for future success; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate.

Ellis

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 14, 2009.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate