An Indian student has praised Qatar Airways after receiving food and beverage coupons during a layover at Doha airport, calling the gesture a thoughtful way of making student travellers feel acknowledged and special.
(Also read: Indian founder aboard Qatar Airways flight records pilot’s diversion announcement amid Iran retaliation)
The woman shared her experience in a video on Instagram, where she expressed surprise at the airline’s gesture and said the complimentary food had left a lasting impression on her.
‘Guess who just got free food!’
In the video, the woman, identified as Kanika, excitedly spoke about receiving the coupons while travelling as a student.
“Qatar Airways, I think we really need to have a word. Because what do you mean that for students traveling on one of your flights with a layover in Doha Airport, you offer us food and beverage coupons? I've never heard of something similar from another airline. Guess what? Guess who just got free food! I mean, I think more than the feeling of getting free food, it's just the feeling of being acknowledged, the feeling of—the feeling of being felt special. I love it! I am booking all my student flights in Qatar from now on.”
While the free meal understandably delighted her, Kanika said what stood out more was the feeling that students were being recognised as a distinct group of travellers.
{{/usCountry}}While the free meal understandably delighted her, Kanika said what stood out more was the feeling that students were being recognised as a distinct group of travellers.
{{/usCountry}}Her reaction captured how even a relatively small gesture can shape a passenger’s overall travel experience, particularly for students who often plan international journeys on tight budgets.
(Also read: Qatar business traveller stranded in Gujarat as Middle East escalation halts flights: ‘I need to fly back’)
‘The best Qatar Airways’
Sharing the clip on Instagram, Kanika accompanied it with a short caption that read: “The best @qatarairways”
Watch the clip here:
For students travelling internationally, expenses during long journeys and airport layovers can quickly add up. Against that backdrop, complimentary food or beverage coupons can offer both convenience and a welcome sense of hospitality.
Social media users react
The post also prompted reactions from social media users, many of whom appreciated the gesture.
“That’s actually such a thoughtful gesture from the airline,” one user wrote. Another commented, “Thoughtful service always leaves a lasting impression.” A third person said, “This is very impressive,” while another added, “Being acknowledged as a student definitely feels special.”
(Also read: Qatar Airways shares stunning cockpit view as aircraft glides through clouds to land at Heathrow)
HT.com has reached out to the user for her comments, and the copy will be updated once her response is received.
(Disclaimer: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.)