The head of one of the Middle East’s largest carriers, Qatar Airways, says passenger numbers to the United States have dipped slightly over fears by some Muslim passengers that their visas may be rejected on arrival.

Akbar al-Baker says this uncertainty, however, is “affecting the business but to a very small extent.” He also expressed confidence in President Donald Trump’s policies, saying he is “a very wise individual and a very good businessman.”

Al-Baker described the decline in passenger numbers as “manageable.” He says Qatar Airways still has “robust loads to the United States” and is planning new routes, including to Las Vegas, possibly as early as the first half of next year.

He spoke to reporters Monday at the Arabian Travel Market convention in Dubai.

Source: thestandard.com.hk