Flight test: Qatar Airways economy class

Qatar Airways brought the scheduled departure time forward by 20 minutes — causing much confusion among passengers checking in for the 8am flight — then left 30 minutes late. The flight took six hours, 35 minutes.

Business class and Qatar Airways platinum, gold and silver Privilege Club members can use any one of the four Thai Airways lounges at Bangkok's new Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Spick and span; the modern interiors of the six-month-old aircraft have stylish maroon and blue trimmings that match staff uniforms.

As good as it can get in economy. Seats have moulded headrests and adjustable personal entertainment screens. The most incredibly smooth landing and take-off. Things weren't so suave at Doha Airport — squashed on to an old bus, we taxied for 18 minutes before reaching the terminal. Business and first class score limousine transfers and access to the sleek Premium Lounge.

While friendly and multicultural — with staff from the Philippines, Thailand, Ethiopia and Bulgaria — service is not quite the "five stars" Qatar Airways professes. After spilling his red wine, my neighbour waited more than 15 minutes for staff to respond, several of whom were sharing a joke at the back of the plane.

Below average — a sad-looking breakfast of omelet, choice of a shrivelled-up old croissant or sugary white bread and undrinkable coffee, with a soggy sandwich for lunch.

Vast and quite possibly the best in the skies: 178 movies, 263 television programs, music, games, an entire channel devoted to children, all in eight languages and presented on a nifty touch screen.

Twice daily between Bangkok and Doha.

On board Qatar Airways

qatarairways.com.

Tested by Leisa Tyler, who flew courtesy of Qatar Airways.

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