Goldstone,
The rumour is common knowledge but I've seen nothing that proves categorically yet but I've seen things that certainly point very much in that direction. I,ve rarely ever come across a more imcompetent, rude and unpopular guy than him (apart from AAB of course). Talk on other threds of a snake, but this guy is the biggest snake of all.
As far as the other point is concerned, we can all try to guess who we all are through what we write (I'm sure we are all careful) but as far them firing me for, they've gotta prove who I am first. Having said that they could fire me for wearing the wrong color underpants... so it makes no difference as far as they or I are concerned.
Incidentally just found this on a website...even the journo's get sucked in to this sham.....
"QATAR AIRWAYS chief executive Akbar Al Baker was the guest of honour
at a crowded Aviation Club lunch last week, the first ever speaker
from the Arab world. He proved to be a witty and decisive ambassador
for his country and airline “a total aviation man?who clearly knows
his business and is adapt in the English language. Qatar Airways is on
a great march forward with growth exceeding that of the budget
carriers, 42.5% in the current year. By the end of 2004 the Doha based
carrier will serve 50 destinations as against the current 38. He
criticised the government of India for restrictive practices
reaffirming his belief in “open skies? Without prompting from the
floor he made clear his intention to join one of the alliances.
However he is focussed on Qatar Airways and what makes it tick. Not
for Mr Al Baker investment or consultancy with other carriers. With a
new airport to build, the takeover of the national hotel company and
other interests such as tourism he and Qatar Airways have more than
enough on their plate."