Kuwait’s aviation faces setback as seven global airlines cancel operations since 2019
Several international airlines, including British, Dutch, and German carriers, have canceled flights to Kuwait International Airport, leading to a 13.4% decline in airlines operating from 52 in 2019 to 45 today.

• Less competition in the aviation sector at Kuwait Airport limits flight options, leading passengers to book through multiple airlines, including those from neighboring countries, as certain destinations are not served by the national carrier.
• With the opening of Kuwait International Airport T2 in 2027, there are no clear plans to attract new international airlines, and Kuwait Airways lacks long-term strategies to expand its network, potentially impacting airport operations amid regional competition for airlines and passengers.
• Despite claims that international airlines are leaving Kuwait due to competition and costs at Kuwait Airport—which competes with some of the world’s leading airports—as well as rising fuel costs, the issue needs urgent review to find solutions benefiting passengers and local airlines.
While regional and international airlines vie to expand and capture larger shares of the aviation market in the Gulf, Kuwait appears to be heading in a different direction.
Over the past period, several international airlines—such as British, Dutch, and German carriers—have canceled their flights to Kuwait Airport after decades of service. Figures show a decrease in airlines operating from Kuwait International Airport, dropping from 52 companies in 2019 to 45 today, a decline of seven companies or 13.4%, according to Al Qabas newspaper.
Less competition leads to higher prices
It is well known in the aviation sector, as in other industries, that less competition leads to higher prices. This applies to Kuwait Airport and its passengers, which could negatively affect both citizens and residents by limiting their options. Many are forced to book flights to various international destinations through different airlines, some departing from Kuwait and others from neighboring countries, as those destinations aren’t available on the national carrier network.
Observers also believe Kuwait Airways has not capitalized on these changes, with its international route network still relatively limited compared to other Gulf airlines, despite its potential to compete for many European and Asian destinations.
As we approach the opening of the new Kuwait International Airport T2, scheduled for mid-2027, there are still no clear plans to attract new international airlines. Kuwait Airways has not announced medium- or long-term strategies to expand its network to the capitals and cities that Kuwaitis travel to frequently, which could negatively impact operations at the new airport, especially as the region sees fierce competition in airport construction and attracting airlines, passengers, and transit travelers.
Prominent hub for transit passengers
As the General Civil Aviation Authority aims to make Kuwait Airport one of the best in the world, with plans to increase its capacity to over 50 million passengers annually, the first phase will accommodate about 15 million passengers, with an expected rise to 25 million after expansion. However, these ambitions may face challenges due to a lack of attraction for international airlines and flights. Experts suggest that the new goal for Kuwait’s $5 billion airport is to find solutions that attract many international carriers and make it a prominent hub for transit passengers.
Careful review
Despite former officials’ assurances that international airlines are leaving Kuwait due to intense competition, price cutting, high fees, and services at Kuwait Airport—which competes with some of the world’s leading airports, as well as rising fuel costs—the issue requires careful review. It is crucial to find solutions that benefit both passengers and Kuwaiti airlines. The responsible authorities must focus on several key points, including:
- Increasing the number of airlines and discouraging those attempting to leave or reduce their operations, in order to enhance flight options for passengers.
- Expanding the national carrier’s destination network to meet passenger demands, particularly to new capitals and cities, and increasing flights to popular destinations.
- Focusing on improving customer service to enhance the overall passenger experience.
- Expediting inspections to increase the efficiency of security and safety procedures.
- Providing modern information technology services, including the use of artificial intelligence, to meet the needs of the current era.
Kuwait Airways earns top rankings for flight punctuality in the Middle East and Africa
Despite challenges, Kuwait Airways, one of the oldest airlines in the region, continues to develop its operations and expand its services, offering direct flights to various countries.
The airline has earned top rankings for flight punctuality in the Middle East and Africa, reflecting its commitment to operational excellence, strict aircraft maintenance, and a well-planned flight schedule. While it has canceled or reduced some flights, Kuwait Airways is still serving 57 destinations, including newly added routes to Moscow, Luxor, Kuala Lumpur, and Alexandria.
Modern fleet and spacious seats
The national carrier is also known for its modern fleet and spacious seats, which are among the largest in the industry. It has also received an award for the best meal served to passengers and has earned a reputation for punctuality, securing third place for timeliness in the Middle East, with a 91% on-time departure rate.
Passenger numbers at Kuwait Airport fall
Official statistics show a decline in passenger numbers at Kuwait Airport in 2024 compared to 2023, despite record-high passenger traffic at major regional airports. Sources suggest that unfair competition from leading regional carriers has contributed to the withdrawal of some international airlines from Kuwait, negatively impacting the competitiveness of Kuwaiti national carriers. Meanwhile, governments in the region continue to support their national airlines, which is a key driver of their expansion.
Popular destinations that reduced their flights
Passengers have expressed their dissatisfaction with Kuwait Airways’ reduction in flights to international capitals and cities, urging a reconsideration of increasing the frequency of flights to destinations that have become popular for travelers year-round.
Kuwait Airways operates three weekly flights to Paris
Paris: Kuwait Airways currently operates only three weekly flights to the French capital, Paris, with plans to increase this to five during the summer. Paris is one of the most prominent tourist destinations globally, attracting millions of visitors every year, and is ranked first in the “Top 100 Cities for Tourist Destinations” by EuromonitorInternational. Data indicates that over 70 million people visited Paris last year, thanks to its tourism policies and excellent infrastructure.
Madrid: While Kuwait Airways regularly operates flights to Madrid, many Kuwaiti travelers are sometimes forced to book flights with other carriers or neighboring airports. Given that many Kuwaitis own homes in Spanish cities, there’s a growing demand for more flights to Madrid.
Kuwaitis own over 7,000 properties in Spain
Latest data reveals that Kuwaitis own over 7,000 properties in Spain, with real estate purchases growing by 20% in 2024. Spain also achieved a record 94 million tourists in 2024, marking a 10% increase compared to the previous year and solidifying its position as one of the world’s leading tourist destinations, with record numbers of visitors and revenue.
Maldives: The Maldives is an attractive destination for Kuwaitis, Gulf residents, and tourists worldwide, due to its unique tourism elements. It attracts tens of thousands of tourists from the GCC countries annually, known for its stunning nature.
Currently, there is an expansion trend in the tourism sector, which focuses not only on preserving the natural beauty and environment but also on offering diverse and richer experiences for visitors. This includes a wide range of activities and highlights the Maldives’ rich culture and heritage.
Austrian embassy in Kuwait issued over 10,000 visas
Vienna: In recent years, Vienna has become one of the most popular destinations for many Kuwaitis, especially during the summer. This destination is experiencing significant interest, especially with the recent facilitation of the Schengen visa, which grants Kuwaiti citizens a five-year visa upon their first application. This makes year-round travel to Austria and other European countries more convenient.
Kuwaiti visitors contribute significantly to Austria’s tourism sector, favoring it as a family-friendly destination, particularly in the summer months. Popular spots include Zell am See, Salzburg, and Vienna. According to data, the Austrian embassy in Kuwait issued over 10,000 visas last year.