Published on
February 18, 2026
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Qatar Airways has announced a significant adjustment to its London flight schedule, with a reduction in the number of weekly flights between Doha and London starting in May 2026. The airline will cut back its operations between Doha and both Heathrow and Gatwick airports due to shifts in demand and operational streamlining. This change will affect passengers who were planning to use Qatar Airways for direct flights between London and Doha, as well as those seeking connections to destinations across the Middle East, Asia, and beyond.
The reduction in frequency marks a 14% decrease in Qatar Airways’ service to London, with 818 weekly departures replacing the previous 951. While this change might disrupt travel plans for many, it reflects the airline’s ongoing efforts to adjust its network in response to the evolving global travel environment.
Key Changes in Qatar Airways’ London Services
The most significant impact of this change is on Qatar Airways’ Heathrow service, where the airline will cut 11 weekly flights. Meanwhile, at Gatwick, the service, which was previously set to operate twice daily, will be reduced to just 11 weekly flights. While these cuts may be a temporary inconvenience for travelers, the adjustments are aimed at making the airline’s operations more efficient and better aligned with current demand patterns.
It’s important to note that the changes will only apply to the spring months, with the schedule returning to near normal by the summer of 2026. Qatar Airways plans to maintain a daily flight from Heathrow, and several weekly services from Gatwick, ensuring that direct connections between London and Doha remain available, though with fewer options during the affected period.
Impact on Tourism and Travel Between London and Doha
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This adjustment in Qatar Airways’ London-Doha flight schedule is likely to have ripple effects on both the tourism sectors in London and Doha. Doha, the capital of Qatar, is becoming an increasingly popular destination for both business and leisure travel. The reduced flight options may cause inconvenience for tourists in London planning trips to Doha and beyond, as well as for those with onward connections to Asia and other regions served by Qatar Airways.
In contrast, London may also see a slight decrease in visitors from Qatar and other Gulf countries due to the reduction in direct flights. Qatar Airways has long been a leading carrier on the London-Doha route, and its decision to cut back on service could affect the number of travelers making the journey from the Gulf region. However, with British Airways continuing to operate direct flights from London to Doha, travelers still have access to a reliable alternative option.
Alternatives for Affected Travelers
For travelers whose plans are impacted by the reduction in Qatar Airways flights, there are several alternatives to consider:
- Connecting Flights: Passengers can explore connecting flights via other major airports in Europe or the Middle East, such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Istanbul. These airports offer a variety of flight options to Doha and other destinations in Qatar Airways’ network.
- Other Airlines: While Qatar Airways has been a primary provider on this route, other airlines, such as British Airways, continue to offer direct services between London and Doha. Travelers may need to adjust their flight dates to find available options with these carriers.
- Flexible Travel Dates: If travelers have some flexibility in their schedules, they can consider adjusting their travel dates. The reduction in flights primarily affects the spring months, so those with flexible plans may find better availability during quieter travel periods.
What the Change Means for Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways’ decision to reduce its London services is in line with the airline’s strategy to optimize its route network and better match current travel demand. As the airline works to balance its global network, this reduction reflects broader efforts to concentrate resources on more profitable routes.
The overall effect on Qatar Airways’ profitability remains to be seen, but this decision signals the airline’s ongoing adjustments as it adapts to changes in global travel patterns, including evolving post-pandemic demand. Despite this reduction, Qatar Airways continues to expand in other regions and enhance its services to high-demand destinations in Asia and North America.
The Future of London-Doha Travel
While the reduction in Qatar Airways flights to London may cause short-term disruption, the long-term outlook remains positive. London continues to be one of the most connected cities in the world, with a range of airlines offering flights to Doha and other Middle Eastern destinations. For passengers seeking flexibility, other carriers such as British Airways and other Middle Eastern airlines are available to fill the gap.
Additionally, Qatar Airways plans to return its schedule to near normal by the summer of 2026, with full service reinstated during the peak travel months. The adjustment serves as a temporary measure, and travelers can still expect high levels of service and convenient connections from London to Doha as soon as the schedule stabilizes.
Conclusion: Adapting to Changing Travel Dynamics
Qatar Airways’ decision to reduce its London flight frequencies reflects the airline’s efforts to streamline operations in response to changing global demand. Although this change may cause some inconvenience for travelers, the flexibility offered by connecting flights and other carriers ensures that passengers can still reach Doha and beyond with minimal disruption.
As the travel industry continues to evolve, travelers should stay informed about changes to flight schedules and new options available. For now, travelers planning trips to Doha or other destinations served by Qatar Airways should explore alternative routes and consider adjusting their travel plans for the spring of 2026.
