Qatar Airways Cargo to Re-Center Operations at Doha International Airport

DOHA, Qatar – In a major tactical pivot aimed at optimising hub efficiency, Qatar Airways Cargo has confirmed plans to reinstate freighter operations at Doha International Airport (DIA), the city’s "old" aviation gateway, beginning in the second quarter of 2026.

The move is designed to decongest Hamad International Airport (HIA), which has seen unprecedented growth in both passenger and belly-hold cargo traffic following the completion of its Phase B expansion in early 2025. By shifting dedicated freighter airframes to DIA, the carrier aims to create a specialised "Logistics relief valve," focusing on e-commerce, livestock, and heavy-lift operations at the legacy site while maintaining HIA as the primary hub for premium belly-hold integration.

A Dual-Airport Strategy for Global Lead

"Our return to DIA is not a step back, but a strategic leap forward," said Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways. "As we approach the delivery of our first Boeing 777-8 Freighters in 2027 and expand our joint business with IAG and MASkargo, HIA's apron capacity must be preserved for high-frequency passenger connections. DIA offers us the dedicated 'hardstand' space required for rapid freighter turnarounds without the constraints of a high-traffic passenger hub."

The transition will begin with a phased relocation of regional GCC "feeder" flights and high-volume e-commerce routes from Europe and Asia. This "dual-hub" system mirrors successful operations in cities like Tokyo (Narita/Haneda) and London (Heathrow/Stansted), allowing Qatar Airways to maintain its status as the world’s leading international cargo carrier.

2Q26 Launch Schedule

The following table outlines the initial wave of freighter operations scheduled to migrate to Doha International Airport (DIA) starting April 15, 2026.

Note: All times are local. (*)Operations at DIA will utilise the refurbished Cargo Terminal 2 (CT2) which features enhanced cold-chain capabilities for pharmaceutical and perishable goods.

Infrastructure and Tech Upgrades

The reopening of DIA for Qatar Airways Cargo comes alongside a significant technological overhaul of the airport’s airside systems. In partnership with MATAR (Qatar Company for Airports Operation and Management), the airport has integrated AI-driven Performance Cockpit software to manage airfield movements, ensuring that the 10-year-old facility can handle the weight and frequency of modern 777F operations.

Furthermore, the dedicated Animal Centre at HIA will remain the primary hub for high-value live cargo, but DIA will handle "direct-to-truck" transfers for industrial and general freight, significantly reducing ground handling times for logistics partners like Qatar Post.