[Click above for the video review.]
Airline: Qatar Airways (QR)
Flight Number: QR720
Route: SEA-DOH
Class: “QSuite” Business Class
Aircraft: Boeing 777-300ER
Registration: A7-BAG
Delivered: March 2009
Flight Duration: 14 Hours 35 Minutes
Distance: 7,411 Miles
Overall Impression:
It’s been a while since we last flew Qatar Airways’ ultra long-haul route from the U.S. to Doha, so we were excited to once again experience their world-class QSuite Business Class—this time departing from Seattle.
As expected, the in-flight experience was excellent. If you’ve read my previous QSuite reviews, you’ll know we’re big fans of the seat. It offers ample space, and whether you’re lounging, dining, or lying fully flat, comfort is never an issue.
The cabin crew on our flight were attentive and genuinely friendly. Beyond the standard business class amenities, we were welcomed with a pre-departure beverage, offered loungewear, and given refreshing hand towels after each meal. Impressively, our meal and service requests were consistently fulfilled within minutes.
While the catering was decent overall, I did notice a reduced variety on the food menu compared to past flights. That said, Qatar’s renowned wine list remains a highlight and didn’t disappoint.
The cherry on top? Our aircraft was equipped with Starlink high-speed Wi-Fi, available for free from gate to gate—for all passengers!
What I Liked:
The Seats – The QSuite seats on Qatar Airways’ Boeing 777s are nearly identical to those on their Airbus A350s in terms of layout and comfort. However, one noticeable difference is that the 777s are equipped with an older generation of inflight entertainment (IFE) remote and moving map system. Additionally, the A350’s cabin feels more spacious thanks to the absence of overhead bins in the center section.
That said, the seat remains one of the most comfortable and well-designed in the sky. It offers plenty of space to stretch out, with intuitive seat controls, conveniently located storage, power outlets, and easy access to the IFE system. And of course, the hallmark of the QSuite experience—the sliding door—adds an extra layer of privacy and luxury during the flight.
The Onboard Service – The onboard service on this flight was excellent—delivered in true Qatar Airways fashion. The meal service followed a dine-on-demand format, and we were pleasantly surprised by how quickly our orders arrived after placing them.
Following the meal, the crew offered turndown service for passengers ready to rest, adding a thoughtful touch to the overall experience. The flight attendants assigned to our aisle were responsive, friendly, and impressively proactive throughout the flight. Their attention to detail and warm demeanor helped make the long journey feel seamless and comfortable.
The Food – While the menu on this flight was slightly more limited than in the past, the catering was still very good. Fortunately, all the items we wanted were available, and nothing had run out by the time we ordered. The meals were not only delicious but also beautifully presented—a testament to Qatar Airways’ attention to detail.
Throughout the flight, our glasses were proactively refilled, and the crew ensured that the dining experience remained smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.
The Amenities – Qatar Airways continues to impress with its excellent business class amenities. Each passenger receives a luxurious Diptyque amenity kit and comfortable pajamas, adding a touch of refinement to the experience. At the seat, you’ll find a bottled water, noise-canceling headphones, a full-size pillow, and a thick, cozy duvet—perfect for getting quality rest.
In addition, mattress pads were provided on this flight, enhancing the comfort of the lie-flat bed and making it easier to relax on the long journey.
The lavatories were kept very clean throughout the flight and were fully stocked with essentials, including toiletries, toothbrushes, and razors—a welcome convenience for freshening up mid-flight.
Personal Air Nozzles – Another welcome feature on this aircraft was the presence of individual air nozzles, allowing us to control airflow at our seats. This made it easier to stay comfortable and get some quality rest during the flight.
The IFE – This aircraft was equipped with Qatar Airways’ Oryx One entertainment system, offering a wide selection of new and classic movies, TV shows, music, and games. The interface was responsive and user-friendly, making it easy to browse and enjoy the content throughout the flight.
Best of all, the plane was fitted with Starlink high-speed internet, which was available for free to all passengers from gate to gate—a fantastic perk for staying connected on such a long journey.
One minor drawback: the moving map and IFE remote felt slightly dated compared to those on newer aircraft, but this didn’t significantly impact the overall entertainment experience.
What I Didn’t Like:
Ground Staff in Seattle – Qatar Airways isn’t typically known for exceptional ground staff service, and our past experiences have ranged from indifferent to occasionally frustrating. At Seattle, the check-in agent who assisted us was a bit rigid—there were no smiles or pleasantries, just a straightforward request for our passports and travel documents before printing our boarding passes.
While the interaction wasn’t warm or welcoming, at least it was efficient, and we didn’t face any unnecessary difficulties.
It was OK, I guess…
The Lounge- Before our flight, we spent a good amount of time in the newly remodeled British Airways Lounge in Seattle. The updated space is a significant improvement over its previous version, now featuring plenty of natural light streaming in from the panoramic windows and offering great views of the ramp below.
There’s a generous amount of seating throughout the lounge, though it can get quite crowded during peak hours. The buffet offered a modest selection of hot items, and the beverage options were solid—a respectable offering for a U.S. lounge. That said, it still doesn’t quite compare to the world-class Qatar Airways lounges in Doha, which remain in a league of their own.
Bottom Line:
Qatar Airways’ QSuite continues to impress with its spacious, comfortable seats and attentive in-flight service. While the onboard catering was slightly pared down, the food remained delicious and well-presented, complemented by Qatar’s excellent wine selection. The addition of free Starlink internet from gate to gate is a standout feature, enhancing connectivity on this ultra long-haul flight.
Though the ground experience in Seattle was a bit cold, and the Lounge was a little meh, these minor drawbacks don’t overshadow the overall quality of the journey. For business class travelers seeking privacy, comfort, and reliable service, Qatar Airways’ QSuite remains one of the best options flying between the U.S. and Doha.
TravelingFoody.com 