Gulf carriers turn their attention to the US to fuel their continued rapid growth

The big three Gulf carriers are turning to expansion in North America to round out their global networks that have largely focussed on Europe, Africa and Asia during the last few years. Emirates is leading the charge through the introduction of three new US cities during 2012, which will result in the carrier holding onto its leading position in the US-Middle East market. But its rivals Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways are not sitting idle as they develop plans to broaden their respective US footprints during 2013.

Shifting their attention to the US is a natural progression for Emirates, Etihad and Qatar as the Americas are the least served regions in each carrier's network. Now that those carriers have a well-established and firm footing in other key global markets, and as they bolster their fleets with more efficient long-haul aircraft, opportunities are emerging for expansion beyond their traditional growth patterns.