Qatar Airways announced plans to begin a phased approach to the expansion of its network in line with passenger demand and the expected relaxation of entry restrictions globally.

"The airline will gradually reinstate suspended destinations and additional frequencies in line with expected relaxation of entry restrictions around the world with a focus on key global destinations and partner hubs," it said.

Qarar will increase its interim network from 30 destinations to 52 destinations by the end of May 2020, resuming services to cities such as Manila, Amman and Nairobi.

By the end of June, and subject to regulatory approval, it said it aims to increase to 80 destinations including 23 in Europe, four in the Americas, 20 in Middle East/Africa and 33 in the Asia Pacific.

The gradual expansion will focus initially on strengthening connections between Qatar Airways' hub in Doha with global hubs of partner airlines including London, Chicago, Dallas and Hong Kong, along with reopening a number of business and leisure destinations such as Madrid and Mumbai.

Qatar Airways Group chief executive Akbar Al Baker said as the airline follows the indicators of the global travel market, it also remains focused on its mission to provide seamless connectivity. 

“We have built a strong level of trust with passengers, governments, trade and airports as a reliable partner during this crisis and we intend to continue delivering on this mission as we gradually expand our network,” he added.