Thousands of people have watched as a Qatar Airways aircraft flew in formation over Doha with the world-famous Red Arrows aerobatic display team, an event taking place as the airline celebrates its twentieth anniversary.

The event, hosted by the British ambassador to the State of Qatar, Ajay Sharma, and Qatar Airways Group chief executive, Akbar Al Baker, included an incredible display over the city’s sweeping corniche.

The display took place in the skies above Doha as a state-of-the-art Qatar Airways Airbus A350, for which the airline was the global launch customer, flew in formation with the British Royal Air Force’s iconic Red Arrows.

Their distinctive fleet of Hawk jets were on hand to display the speed, agility and precision of the RAF and fly in their trademark diamond nine formation to join in the salute to Qatar Airways and its 20 years of operations.

Al Baker, said: “It has been an honour to have one of Qatar Airways’ Airbus A350 aircraft join forces with the world-famous Red Arrows and take part in today’s historic fly-by over the impressive Doha skyline.

“The Red Arrows have helped Qatar Airways celebrate in style with a thrilling display to mark our twentieth anniversary.

“In just two decades, Qatar Airways has exceeded all expectations, to rise from humble beginnings to become one of the world’s leading and most admired airlines.

“I am very proud of all that Qatar Airways has achieved in the past 20 years and as we embark on the next 20 years I look forward to continuing to demonstrate the passion, innovation and award-winning customer service that we have become renowned for.”

The fly-by and special aerobatics display had been carefully planned in advance by Qatar Airways and the Red Arrows, working in partnership the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority.

Ajay Sharma, said: “I am delighted with the welcome that the UK’s Red Arrows have received during their visit to Qatar.

“Residents and visitors alike have come out in force to see the air display, demonstrating the close relationship between our two countries.

“Qatar Airways is an important partner for us and plays a key role in moving UK-Qatar relations forward.”

The nine-strong fleet of Red Arrows aircraft and their pilots visited Qatar as part of an extensive global tour, acting as ambassadors for the United Kingdom to promote ‘the best of British’ goods and services.

Since they were formed in 1965, the Red Arrows have performed over 4,700 displays in 56 countries worldwide.