Iran War Becomes Qatar Airways’ Biggest Crisis
The airline rebuilt 85% of its network by June while reviewing routes for profitability.
Qatar Airways says the Iran War caused the most serious disruption in its history, exceeding the damage from the COVID-19 shutdown and the 2017 Gulf blockade. Qatar closed its airspace after attacks involving Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Missiles and drones struck airports in Kuwait and Dubai, while Doha’s Hamad International Airport was reportedly threatened but not hit.
The closure left Qatar Airways grounded longer than some regional competitors. Some passengers drove to Saudi Arabia to find departing flights. Qatar later restored air travel gradually, but the airline had already absorbed a major financial blow. The crisis also reduced Qatar’s liquefied natural gas exports through the Strait of Hormuz, adding pressure to the country’s economy.
Qatar Airways is now dropping routes that generate weaker returns instead of keeping them for broader market strategy. Demand remains solid, and the carrier expects to serve 170 destinations during the northern winter after rebuilding 85% of its network by June. Jet fuel remains a major cost, although competition and existing fuel protections are helping limit pressure on fares for now.
- Hamad Al-Khater had led the airline for less than three months when the conflict began.
- Qatar Airways plans to serve 170 destinations during the northern winter.
- Houthi rebels recently struck a fuel tank at Riyadh Airport.
- The airline is prioritizing routes with stronger profits.
Summarized from the reporting above. Read it for the full story.
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