I recently took a Qatar Airways flight from London to Doha on the Airbus A380. So I thought I’d share an honest review of the experience. If you’re curious about what it’s like to fly this route, here’s a breakdown of everything from check-in to meals, entertainment, and overall comfort.
Qatar Airways London to Doha Check-In and Boarding
Online check-in for my Qatar Airways London to Doha flight opened two days before departure, which made things a little easier. Heathrow was busy, and the queue for bag drop was long, but around two hours before the flight they started fast-tracking passengers. That definitely saved some time.
Boarding was smooth, with friendly staff greeting passengers as we settled in. At my seat, there was already a pillow, blanket, and headphones waiting. The entertainment system offered movies, TV shows, games, and of course the flight map. I also liked that kids were handed entertainment packs before take-off.
The seats were very comfortable, and each one came with both a UK plug socket and a USB port, which is a big win for travellers who want to charge devices. Once boarding was complete, we were given cold “refreshing towels” before take-off.
A short prayer was announced in Arabic, then the safety demonstration played on the TV screens, making the process faster and more engaging. Our take-off was delayed by an hour, but since I had a 10-hour layover in Doha, I wasn’t stressed.
Qatar Airways Airbus A380 Cabin and Toilets
The Qatar Airways Airbus A380 cabin was well kept, and the toilets were noticeably clean throughout the flight. I appreciated the little extras too: disposable latex gloves, wipes, and small paper cups for hygiene.
Qatar Airways London to Doha Meals Review
About an hour into the flight, meal service began. I chose the Thai red chicken curry with jasmine rice. The sauce was flavourful and the rice tasted like restaurant-quality, but the chicken itself was processed and disappointing. The starter, a pasta salad with sweetcorn and mayo, was bland and forgettable…I left it after a couple of bites. Dessert, however, was a winner: a fresh-tasting chocolate mousse that was genuinely delicious.
I ordered a glass of white wine… and then spilled it everywhere. To make matters funnier, the girl sitting on the aisle spilled hers shortly after, so between the three of us in the row, we basically smelled like a vineyard for the rest of the flight. Not ideal, but at least it wasn’t just me! plus I had spare clothes and underwear in my hand luggage.
Once trays were cleared, the crew handed out Lotus Biscoff biscuits.
Around two and a half hours before landing, we were served a snack: chicken harissa pie. I’d rate it a 5/10. The chicken tasted more authentic than the first meal, but the flavouring wasn’t really to my taste. With this snack, drinks were served again. This time I played it safe with a gin and tonic, served in a heavier cup with ice.
Qatar Airways Airbus A380 Seat Comfort
I was seated directly over the wing, which on an Airbus A380 means your window view is completely blocked. The wings are massive and stretch over at least five rows, so I missed out on scenic views during takeoff and landing.
On the plus side, the seat itself was spacious and comfortable, with plenty of legroom for a six-hour journey. The addition of both a UK plug socket and a USB port made it easy to keep devices charged.
Qatar Airways London to Doha In-Flight Entertainment
The entertainment system was the biggest letdown of the Qatar Airways London to Doha Airbus A380 flight. The choice of movies and TV shows was surprisingly limited, and after trying (and abandoning) two films, I gave up. I noticed lots of other passengers were also either sleeping or reading instead.
If you’re planning to take this flight, I’d recommend downloading your own shows or movies beforehand—just in case the onboard selection doesn’t hold your attention.
Final Thoughts on My Qatar Airways London to Doha Review
So, how was my Qatar Airways London to Doha flight on the Airbus A380? Overall, it was a decent experience. The staff were friendly and attentive, the cabin was comfortable, and the food had both hits and misses. The entertainment system definitely needs an upgrade, but for a six-hour flight, it was manageable.
If you’re considering this route, expect comfort, good service, and clean facilities—but don’t rely too heavily on the in-flight entertainment to pass the time.
Hello! I’m glad you have such a nice experience! In my point of view, comfortable seats & competent polite stuff are the most important things you can have on board (besides, proffessional pilots, of course!). Entertainment is not so important, especially if flights last not so long. Anyway, thank you for the feedback.
Interesting point of view, thanks for sharing 🙂
I have heard good things about Qatar Airways. So it was interesting to read an in-depth review. I would pass on the salad for the chocolate mouse for sure! Sad that your seats had no scenic view. But I always travel with my devices stocked with content so I would be entertained well enough.
Yeah this experience has definitely taught me to always have something downloaded to watch. I think Qatar Airways have top service on board, but it does seem a bit over rated as an airline (maybe I have been spoiled by Emirates)
I appreciate the honest review of your experience. The UK plug socket is a highlight, though the food itself sounds disappointing.
Yeah…the food seemed to be hit and miss :/
Thanks for sharing your experience. I usually find desserts to be nice on planes but the main dish is usually 50-50.
Yes…planes always do the best cakes/mousses! 🍰
Food on an airplane can indeed be hit or miss. Sometimes good, mostly simply okay and sometimes just not it. A bummer that the entertainment system was outdated. I usually have a pile of books and audiobooks downloaded on my ereader, with which I will pass my time.
Yes I think this is a lesson to next time have some of my own shows/movies downloaded.
I have never flown with Qatar so this review was informative for me. Aside from the poor quality chicken the experience seems alright so I’ll make sure to bring my own snacks.
Yes it was an okay experience…but nothing tops Emirates (haha)
Thanks for the honest review! It’s helpful to know what to expect on this route, especially the seat comfort and meal insights.
You’re welcome
I’ve heard really mixed things (& experienced mixed things) about the food – interesting to hear your perspective too!
Yes I definitely had a mixed experience with them too :/
This is a super common route for European travelers and it really helps to know what to expect! Thank you for this Qatar airways London doha review!
No problem 🙂 and yes I didnt actually realise how popular this route is. There were 2 Qatar flights going to Doha around the same time as mine.