Aircraft conditionVery good.
EntertainmentQatar's in-flight entertainment system is accessed through a touch-screen,although it's easier to use the remote control. Range of movies and the noise-cancelling headphones are good. The console between seats has USB and power ports for laptops,iPods or iPads.
ComfortIt's impossible not to be comfortable on a flat bed that,when you're ready to sleep,is made up with a thin fitted mattress. There's an extra large storage bin in the rear of the seat in front.
ServiceVery attentive;crew address business-class passengers by name.
Food and beveragesLa Grand Dame Champagne is offered before take-off with leather-bound menus. The food,served on mini linen tablecloths,is of high quality and includes Arabic mezze platters (dips and flatbreads) and paperbark smoked barramundi with wild rosella and wasabi couscous. Desserts are equally exotic. Snacks available any time. The wine selection includes French champagne,New Zealand sauvignon blancs and Australian shiraz.
Flight frequencyDaily between Melbourne and Doha. Business return fare about $9865 (economy $2250). Sydney passengers pay about the same and fly Virgin Blue to Melbourne to connect. Economy fare is low season and business fare is the same all year.
Tested by Kylie Northover,who flew courtesy of Qatar Airways.