Why is Qatar Airways cutting London capacity in spring 2026?

The airline is reducing London flying by 14% for April–June 2026 due to Doha runway maintenance that limits movements. To keep on-time performance and protect key connections, schedules are being trimmed to 48 weekly Heathrow services and 11 at Gatwick. The change concentrates capacity where it is most productive and preserves punctuality while infrastructure work is completed.

How could fewer Heathrow flights affect US travelers?

With fewer Heathrow flights, seats to Doha and beyond may sell out earlier, especially for India and Australia connections. Expect firmer fares and tighter premium-cabin space on peak days. US travelers can reduce costs by booking earlier, using flexible dates, checking both London airports, and considering alliance partners for one-stop alternatives. Set alerts, since award and sale seats sometimes appear close to departure.

Will the London Gatwick service see more schedule changes?

For April–June 2026, Qatar Airways plans 11 weekly Gatwick services while Heathrow runs at 48 per week. Any extra change would likely reflect the pace of Doha runway maintenance and demand patterns. Travelers should monitor booking notices for reroutes or time shifts. If inventory tightens, compare both airports and nearby dates to keep options open and control trip budgets.

What should investors watch while capacity is reduced?

Key signals include ticket revenue per seat, average fares by cabin, load factors on London connections, and any aircraft upgauge. Also track rebooking costs, partner revenue with British Airways, and commentary on demand from India, Pakistan, Australia, Thailand, and Saudi Arabia. Strong premium demand can support margins despite fewer flights, while softer leisure demand would limit pricing power.

Global Market Insights

Heathrow Flights, February 18: Qatar Airways Cuts 14% London Capacity

ByDanny Kontos February 18, 2026February 18, 2026

Heathrow flights will tighten this spring as Qatar Airways cuts 14% of its London capacity for April–June 2026 due to Doha runway maintenance. The carrier will run 48 weekly services at Heathrow and 11 at Gatwick, down from prior plans. For US travelers connecting to India, Pakistan, Australia, Thailand, and Saudi Arabia, seats could be scarcer and fares firmer. For investors, we outline likely pricing effects, partner feed shifts with British Airways, and what signals to watch next.