Did Turkish Airlines beat Qatar Airways in 2025 traffic?

Yes. Turkish Airlines reported 92.6 million passengers in 2025 and, according to industry summaries, it outpaced Qatar Airways on total traffic. This reflects strong Europe–Asia transfer flows via Istanbul. For consumers and investors, it signals more competition on long-haul corridors that connect India with Europe and North America.

Will India–Europe fares drop in 2026 as capacity rises?

Fares may soften where capacity grows and demand remains steady. With Turkish Airlines expanding and Qatar Airways defending share, we expect more deals, especially off-peak. Prices still depend on fuel, currency, and policy. Shoppers should compare hubs, set alerts, and book early for peak periods.

How should Indian corporates adjust travel buying strategies?

Benchmark both Istanbul and Doha for policy fares and total journey time. Use flexible booking windows, corporate bundles, and monitored thresholds for rebooking when prices fall. Balance contracts across carriers so Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines compete for spend, while tracking on-time performance and disruption support on key routes.

What could reverse capacity-led price pressure?

Three main risks: higher jet fuel costs, rupee weakness against the dollar, and tighter seat rights in India’s bilaterals. Geopolitical tensions or airspace closures could also lengthen routes and lift costs. Any of these can push fares higher even if airlines like Turkish or Qatar maintain schedules.

Global Market Insights

January 10: Turkish Airlines 2025 Traffic Beats Qatar Airways; Expansion Push

ByHuzaifa Zahoor January 10, 2026January 10, 2026

Qatar Airways faces fresh pressure after Turkish Airlines set a Turkish Airlines record of 92.6 million passengers in airline traffic 2025. Industry comparisons show it outpaced Qatar Airways on total traffic, tightening the contest on Europe–Asia corridors that matter to Indian travelers. With more capacity through Istanbul, pricing could stay competitive versus Middle East carriers routing via Doha. We break down what the numbers signal for fares, connectivity, and what India-based investors should watch across 2026.