Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker has been elected to the Executive Committee of the Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO). Established in 1965, AACO is a non-profit organization made up of 24 Arab member airlines, which aims to promote cooperation, quality and safety standards among Arab League air carriers. A delighted Al Baker said being appointed to the AACO committee was a great honour and that he looked forward to continue working with member airlines in his new capacity. "With the formidable rise of air passenger traffic and new regional players to this ever-exciting industry, a regional framework where partners gather, collaborate and raise the profile of the many exceptional airlines in the Middle East, only brings benefits to all concerned within the AACO membership," he said. "When I was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Airways 14 years ago, my goal was for the company to become the best airline in the world. We achieved that this year, but I also had a goal for Arab aviation as a whole, for it to reach the pinnacle of the world’s aviation industry. "It is my aim to continue the good work of AACO and help raise the bar for member airlines in this highly competitive industry. At Qatar Airways, we strive to excel in everything we do, and I am extremely proud to be working alongside some of the best airlines in the world to ensure the Arab aviation industry continues to prosper." Al Baker has been at the helm of Qatar Airways as CEO since its launch in 1997 and has since steered the Doha-based airline into an award-winning global carrier serving over 100 destinations with a modern fleet of 100 aircraft. AACO is holding its Annual General Meeting in Abu Dhabi in November, where CEOs of member airlines will determine AACO strategies and working plans for 2012.