Qatar Airways is expanding its UK and Ireland flight schedule for the summer, responding to a surge in travel demand.

The airline will operate flights to over 160 global destinations via its Doha hub, Hamad International Airport. This week, the airline has increased flight frequencies on key UK and Ireland routes, including Edinburgh, which now sees 14 flights weekly, and London Heathrow, with 49 flights weekly.

The airline's operations now span 41 airports across the UK and Europe, with recent resumptions in cities such as Prague, Zagreb, and Brussels. Average load factors in the UK and Europe are rising by 3-5% weekly, indicating strong demand.

Japan has emerged as a popular leisure destination, with a 151% increase in booked passenger volume from the UK and Ireland compared to last year. Qatar Airways will resume flights to Tokyo Haneda on 15 July, increasing to daily flights from 1 August. This trend reflects a shift from traditional visiting friends and family routes, such as India and Pakistan, towards premium leisure destinations like Australia and Thailand.

The data suggests a broader rebound in long-haul travel, as UK travellers prioritise experiences and bucket-list destinations

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