Qatar Airways Business Class “R” Fare: What You Need to Know About the Cheapest Option

Qatar Airways has revamped its budget-friendly business class “R” fare, now rebranded as the Business Class “Classic” fare. Introduced a few years ago, this fare aims to offer “simplified fare families with greater choice and flexibility,” according to Qatar Airways. They claim it ensures transparency with “no hidden fees or additional charges.” However, the reality is more complex, as the changes seem designed to boost revenue while reducing included perks.

Qatar Airways Business Class Fare Types: Classic, Comfort, and Elite

The rebranded “R” fare, now called Business Class Classic, removes key benefits like advance seat selection and lounge access unless passengers pay extra.

• Business Class Classic: No lounge access, seat selection only at check-in, and high cancellation fees.
• Business Class Comfort: Includes lounge access, advance seat selection at booking, and lower cancellation fees compared to Classic.
• Business Class Elite: Offers lounge access, advance seat selection, and no cancellation fees.

These new fares are live, and passengers can choose based on their priorities. Booking a higher-tier fare also earns more Qmiles in the Qatar Airways Privilege Club.

Award Bookings: Unaffected by Classic Fare Restrictions

Award tickets booked through the Qatar Airways Privilege Club or partner programs, such as British Airways, are exempt from the Business Class Classic restrictions. These bookings still include free advance seat selection and lounge access, making them a better value for frequent flyers redeeming miles.

Oneworld Status Members: What Changes for You?

Seat Selection

Oneworld Sapphire or Emerald members can still select seats in advance for free, even with the Business Class Classic fare. Simply add your frequent flyer number during booking to access this perk.

Lounge Access

Lounge access is more restrictive. Oneworld status members can enter Oneworld-branded lounges but are denied entry to Qatar Airways’ own lounges, including those in Bangkok, Beirut, London Heathrow, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Singapore, and the Al Mourjan lounge in Doha.

The Bottom Line: Is the Business Class Classic Fare Worth It?

Qatar Airways’ rebranding follows a trend set by airlines like Emirates, prioritizing flexibility in name but not always in value. Despite claims of “greater choice,” the Business Class Classic fare hasn’t seen price reductions to offset the loss of free seat selection and lounge access. However, Qatar Airways continues to offer its award-winning Qsuite, one of the best business class products available.

For travellers with Oneworld status or a Priority Pass, lounge access remains possible through alternative means, softening the blow of the Classic fare’s restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have lounge access with an award Business Class booking?

Yes, award bookings are not classified as Business Class Classic and include lounge access and free seat selection at booking.

Is seat selection free for Oneworld status members with the Classic fare?

Yes, Oneworld Sapphire and Emerald members can select seats for free at booking by adding their frequent flyer number.

Do Oneworld status members still have lounge access with the Classic fare?

Partially. You can access Oneworld lounges but not Qatar Airways-branded lounges, such as Al Mourjan in Doha or those in Bangkok, Beirut, London, Paris, or Singapore.

Explore Qatar Airways’ Qsuite routes for the ultimate business class experience.

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