Airport Quick Service Restaurant Market – By Cuisine Type, Franchise Type, Services, Global Forecast, 2025 – 2034

Airport Quick Service Restaurant Market Size

The global airport quick service restaurant market size was valued at USD 36.8 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at 4.5% CAGR from 2025 to 2034.  The growing passenger traffic at the airport and the rapid growth of fast-food chains, especially in emerging markets, are the factors driving the growth of the market.
 

The increase in passenger traffic directly increases consumer demand for convenient dining options. For instance, ACI World projects 10% growth of passenger traffic in 2024 to reach 9.5 billion, due to rising tourism and business travel coupled with increased flight accessibility.
 

Airports are experiencing rising passenger numbers often with time constraints during layovers or departures leading to a very high demand for fast, efficient meal solutions. To cater to this growing demand, the leading QSR chain are increasing their presence in the airports leading to the growth of airport QSR market during the forecast period. According to the agreement between Travel Food Services (TFS) and Gordon Ramsay Restaurants in 2024, 6 airport QSR outlet will be set-up across Indian airport terminals by 2027.

 

Airport QSRs are evolving by expanding their range of menus to attract more customers and boost revenue. Additionally, the time constraints faced by travelers during layovers and departures further amplify the need for fast and efficient meal solutions, making QSRs a critical component of airport infrastructure. Therefore, Airport QSR’s growth opportunity seems more promising due to the fast-paced nature of air travel which demands quick meal solutions.
 

The enhancement in airport infrastructure opens a huge opportunity for growth in the airport quick service restaurant market. Major international airports are inviting QSR operators to set up their restaurants at their airport, which is opening promising revenue streams and opportunities for fast-food outlet operators. This growing business has catapulted fast-food entrepreneurs into opening their outlets at strategic airports around the world.
 

For example, in November 2023, Lagardère Travel Retail won a food service tender to open four restaurant locations at Hamburg Airport. Lagardère Travel Retail introduced the White Monkey Pizza Lab & Bar at Level 1 at the Hamburg airport, accompanied by a quick-service Burger King and another specialty. Such initiatives are proposing the growth of the market. QSR operators should strategically partner with international airports to set up their base to capture the rising demand for efficient meal solutions, due to rising passenger traffic.
 

Quick service restaurants are restaurants that serve cost-friendly meals which are prepared in a systematic way. The meals are packaged so they can be eaten on the go either taken away, delivered to the customer or eaten quickly in-store at the limited seating often available.
 

Airport Quick Service Restaurant Market Trends

• Premium QSR or celebrity backed QSRs at airports are in trend and this has been quite popular in tourism centric cities, mostly at the international airport. Travelers seek quality, unique culinary experiences and exclusivity which helps a brand to grow in such environments. Additionally, renowned chefs and gourmet brands also catch attention of high-spending travellers, boosting non-aeronautical income at airports. For instance, SSP Group plc, a renowned player of premium restaurants, cafes, bars and other food and beverage outlets such as Upper Crust and Caffè Ritazza, reported annual adjusted profits of ~US$ 427 million in the year in 2024.
   
• Integration of self-services kiosks has reshaped the landscape of airport dining. These self-service kiosks revolutionize the traditional dining experience by allowing passengers to order from multiple brands through a unified interface. This capability significantly reduces congestion and wait times while empowering travelers to personalize their dining experience according to their preferences.
   
• Sustainability is becoming a real priority for restaurants. According to statistics, in 2024, with 57% of diners considering sustainability when choosing where to eat, restaurants are making big changes to stay relevant.
   
• Many QSR are switching to composting, recycling, and biodegradable packaging, while also reducing food waste by doing smarter inventory management.
   
• Plant-based options are also on the rise, not just for health-conscious customers but as a way for restaurants to show they care about the environment. By embracing these practices, restaurants are keeping up with trends and building a loyal customer base that values sustainability.
   
• Major QSR operators are seeking an airport to serve a captive audience and offer an opportunity to charge higher prices than a traditional location, leading to higher margins.
   

Airport Quick Service Restaurant Market Analysis

Based on cuisine type, the market is divided into fast food chains, beverages, bakery & confectionery, and international cuisine. The demand of healthy, organic foods along with shift in consumer preferences are driving the overall growth of the segment in the market.
 

• The beverage segment is set to grow at 5.8% during the forecast period. Factors such as need for healthy beverages options that offers health benefits, boost immunity, are expected to drive this growth.
   
• The segment is also expanding due to the rise of functional drinks like energy drinks, sports drinks, and vitamin-enriched waters.
   
• Fast Food Chains held the highest share of 44.9% in 2024 and is growing at the fastest CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period. This domination can be attributed to the rising demand for fast foods like burgers, sandwiches, and pizzas.
   
• The bakery & confectionery segment held a moderate share of 15.3% in the year 2024. The growing customer’s preferences for cakes, and pastries as a dessert to satisfy their taste bud are propelling the growth in the segment.
   
• Many customers prefer bakery snacks such as croissants, cookies, etc., which is also contributing to the rising demand for such products.
   
• International cuisines such as Mexican tacos, Italian pizzas, Indian curries, and Asian sushi enhance the menus of QSR and cater to diverse tastes. Due to this, the market for the Internation cuisine segment was valued at USD 1.8 billion in 2024.
   
• This segment attracts adventurous eaters seeking new Flavors and allows QSRs to appeal to a wider customer base across different regions while adapting to local preferences.
   

Based on service, the airport quick service restaurant market is bifurcated into eat-in and takeaway. Airport QSR is focusing on improving its services by speeding up the service time and enhancing the overall customer dining experience, which drives the growth of the segment in the market.
 

• The eat-in segment dominated the QSR market and was valued at USD 24.1 Billion in 2024. This segment is driven by several factors such as the increasing demand for a comfortable eat-in experience and the growing demand for social dining. The US Foods’ recent diner dispatch survey reveals that 55% of customers prefer dining at restaurants over ordering takeout or delivery, versus 43% in 2023.
   
• The takeaway segment is rising with a CAGR of 3.2% during the forecast period. The increasing trend of on-the-go service and fast service are the leading factors for growth in the market. For instance, Taco Bell share of visits lasting 10 minutes or less rose from 58.4% to 62.9% from 2019 to 2023. Similar trend was absorbed in Wendy’s, in the same time frame where its’ share for visits lasting 10 minutes or less rose from 56.4% to 60.5% for the same year.
   

Based on franchise type, the market is bifurcated into branded chains and local brands. Branded chains have increasing revenue potential and prompting demands for innovation in menu offerings, service efficiency, and technology integration to grow the demand of time-sensitive travellers.
 

• Branded chain dominated the market accounting for 59.4% market share in 2024. Branded chain restaurants such as McDonald, and KFC are popular among consumers due to brand recognition, which fosters customer loyalty, and the ability to offer high-quality, consistent experiences across various locations.
   
• Local brands segment is growing at a decent pace of 3.5% for the year 2025-2034. Local QSRs are growing rapidly due to heavy marketing investments, menu innovation, and the integration of technology which further boosts customer engagement and efficiency. These factors propel the growth of the segment in the market.
   

The North America airport quick service restaurant market is projected to grow significantly, reaching USD 21.2 billion by 2034. The evolving consumer preference to grab quick snacks and increasing the dependency of American society on the fast food is driving the market in the region. QSR not only satisfy the food appetite but also save lot of time by providing fast service, which is another factor contributing to the growth in the market.
 

• In 2024, the U.S. held the largest share of 87.9% in the Airport QSR Market in the North America. The major factors influencing the growth in country is the growing number of passengers traveling in flights. For instance, according to U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approximately 2,900,000 passenger fly in and out of the country daily. Also, more than 10 million scheduled passenger flights take-off from U.S. airports yearly.
   
• The Canada Airport QSR Market was valued at USD 1.7 billion in the year 2024. Expanding new airport terminals across the Canadian region due to rising air passenger demand creates an opportunity for growth in the market.
   

The airport quick service restaurant market in Europe is growing at a CAGR of 3.5% during the forecast period. The rising passenger traffic is attributed to the market expansion in the region. For instance, according to the Official Airline Guide (OAG), London Heathrow Airport (LHR) remains Europe's busiest airport in January 2025 with 4.2 million seats. Istanbul Airport (IST) is the second busiest airport in Europe with 4.0 million seats with capacity increased by 6% compared to last year.
 

• The UK is the largest market in the European region, held 23.7% share in the year 2024. Airports with high traffic and time-sensitive customers, providing a prime setting for airport quick service restaurants that focus on speed and efficiency. Travelers are continuously seeking a familiar global brands and local food offerings that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
   
• The market in Germany for airport QSR was valued at 1.6 billion in the year 2024 and is growing with a CAGR of 5.3% for the year 2025-2034. Various strategies are adopted by airports quick service restaurants operators such as mobile ordering, self-service, and digital payment to enhance convenience, reduce wait-time to attract more customer which propels the growth in the market.
   
• The growing focus on healthier food choices along with the growing trend of sustainability and convenience in France drives the market with a growth rate of 3.1% for the year 2025-2034.
   
• The airport QSR market in Netherland is advancing at a fastest CAGR of 3.7% for the forecast period. Growing number of passenger flights is expected to propel the market forward.
   
• Spain airport QSR market was valued at USD 803.7 million in 2024, the market is driven due to the propensity for quality ingredients, café-style service, and general preference for an upscale fast-food experience.
   
• Italy held 6% market share in the Europe airport QSR market in 2024. This market is driven by traditional food culture that defines the market, and local quick service restaurants operators that incorporate fresh and local ingredients and specialties to address consumers' interest.
   

The Asia Pacific airport quick service restaurant market is projected to grow significantly, reaching USD 18.6 billion by 2034. The rise of low-cost airlines in Asia such as Indigo, Air Asia, Scoot and Lion Air has led to increased number of travellers on Airports. These travellers buy quick meals which fuels the demand for Airport Quick Service Restaurants.
 

• China held largest market share of 42% in the year 2024 in the region. Owing to need for customized food meal demand by the customer, the market is expanding in this region. Customers can adjust spice levels and personalize their meals according to their preferences and taste.
   
• Many airport QSR focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring authenticity and quality while supporting local farmers. As digital adoption rises, ordering through mobile apps and online platforms has made dining even more convenient in the country.
   
• India’s airport quick service restaurant (QSR) market is booming, due to a mix of diverse menus, strong vegetarian offerings, bold Flavors, and increasing digital convenience. The Indian market has a high growth rate of 4.8% for the forecast year and market share of 16.7% in 2024 in Asia Pacific region.
   
• People prefer variety which is catered by blending traditional Indian dishes with global flavours, tweaking them to match local tastes. Since a large portion of the population prefers vegetarian food, many restaurants have extensive vegetarian menus, and some even operate separate kitchens for veg and non-veg meals.
   
• Japan has a significant market share of 15.4% of Aisa Pacific airport QSR market in 2024. Japanese cuisine, including sushi, ramen, and bento boxes, dominates airport dining menus, supported by western fast-food options. Moreover, rise in low-cost airlines such as Peach aviation, AirAsia Japan has made air travel affordable for people which in turns increase air traffic which further increase demand for airport QSR in Japan.
   
• The South Korea market was valued at USD 553.3 million in the year 2024. The increasing demand for Health-conscious and sustainable food options are gaining popularity which is expected to propel the need for airport quick service restaurant in South Korea
   
• Australia held a modest market share of 7.4% in the year 2024 in Asia with a growth rate of 5.8% for the year 2025-2034. Rising development in airport infrastructure and shift toward convenience and speed in meal consumption due to busy travel schedule of passengers is driving the growth in the market.
   

The Latin America airport quick service restaurant market is projected to grow significantly, reaching USD 1.8 billion by 2034.
 

• The Mexico airport QSR market is the fastest growing market in the Latin America region, it is growing at a significant growth rate of 3.4% for the forecast year. The market is growing due to an emphasis on flavours and more traditional cuisine, fast food companies tend to adapt these menus by including more tacos, burritos, and spicy options which attract tastes from the customers in the market.
   
• Brazil held the largest market share of 38% in the year 2024 in the Latin America region. The launch of low-cost carrier due to increasing passenger demand and increasing demand for healthy alternatives and digital ordering services drive the market.
   
• Airport QSR market in Argentina stood at USD 274.9 million in the year 2024 and is driven by demand for grilled meats and sea food. Moreover, fast food chains have implemented various strategies such ad local flavours and premium beef options to attract consumers which create opportunities for market expansion in the region.
   

The MEA market is projected to grow significantly, reaching USD 3 billion by 2034.  The region has some of the world busiest airport which often due to high aviation traffic leads to delay and increase wait-time. Thus, this factor create opportunity for market expansion as, customers generally utilize this time to grab quick snack at the QSR restaurant present at the airports.
 

• The airport quick service restaurant market in Saudi Arabia is growing rapidly at a CAGR of 3.3% for the forecast year. The market in the region is driven by increased travel and tourism, and the growth of major airports like King Abdulaziz International and King Khalid International.
   
• In UAE, the airport QSR market is expected to reach USD 1.2 billion in the year 2034. Airport in this country such as Dubai International Airport acts as a transit hub for international passenger. Passenger travelling from Asian countries to European region often take connecting flights from U.A.E thus, increasing the passenger traffic in the country.
   
• In South Africa, the airport QSR market was valued at USD 421 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 504.8 million in 2034.  Growing integration of technology, such as mobile ordering and self-service kiosks, is increasing convenience. Moreover, the focus on healthier, premium, and diverse food offerings enhances the overall passenger experience is driving the market.
   

Airport Quick Service Restaurant Market Share

The airport quick service restaurant industry is competitive, with a mix of global food leaders and regional players. The top four key players such as McDonald, KFC, Starbucks and Subay held a cumulative market share of 48% in 2024. Key strategies involve investing in advanced technologies such as self-service kiosks and digital ordering in quick service restaurant systems, which provide enhanced customer experiences to place orders quickly without waiting in line. Additionally, the automation and robotics are gaining tractions in some advanced airports allowing for faster food preparation and delivery. This reduces human labour, increases the consistency, and meets the requirements for quick services.
 

Additionally, companies are adopting practices like reducing food waste and adoption biodegradable package is also evolving the overall growth of the market. Technology is being used to reduce food waste, improve energy efficiency, and maintain sustainability. Some airport quick service restaurants at advanced airport also uses IoT-enabled systems to track food waste and minimize it.
 

Airport Quick Service Restaurant Market Companies

Some of the eminent market participants operating in the airport quick service restaurant industry include:

• Subway IP LLC
• Burger King Company LLC
• McDonald’s Corporation
• Yum! Brands, Inc.
• Starbucks Corporation
• JUBILANT FOODWORKS LIMITED
• Inspire Brands, Inc.
• The Wendy’s Company
• Chick-fil-A, Inc.
• Haldiram Foods International Pvt. Ltd
• Costa Limited
• Wow! Momo Foods Private Limited
   

In the airport quick service restaurant market, McDonald's Corporation and Burger King Company LLC emerged as a leader accounting for over 25% of the market share. McDonald's Corporation and Burger King Company LLC, both of which benefit from their significant brand presence, efficient service, and diversified menus to attract the busy traveller. McDonald's strengths include digital kiosks, an all-day menu, and rapid service for consistency across the global airport locations. In Jan 2025, McDonald’s launched the McValue platform in partnership John Cena, who will be highlighted on the chain’s social channels. This collaboration reflects the growth of the overall market.
 

The company Jubilant FoodWorks holds a significant market share in the fast-food and pizza delivery segment. With the focus on technology integration, regional menu adaptation, and value-driven promotions, the Domino's Pizza master franchisee as well as that of Popeyes dominates the respective space. Both the brands are still going to shape the industry with continuous evolution of changing consumer preferences, convenience trends, and digital advancement.
 

Starbucks is known for its premium coffees and snacks which attracts customers and local travellers. It also offers customised coffees, sustainability, and digital payments which has further strengthened its global presence. In September 2023, Starbucks opened a new pickup restaurant in Houston Texas’s George Bush International Airport that exclusively accepts online orders for pickup. Such innovations are driving the growth of the market during the forecast period.
 

Airport Quick Service Restaurant Industry News

• In August 2023, McDonald’s India (West & South) launched the nation’s first Airport Drive-Thru Restaurant near Mumbai’s Terminal 2 at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. Operating 24/7, this location enhances convenience for travellers and locals, offering quick service and quality food as part of the Experience of the Future (EOTF) initiative.
   
• In September 2023, Starbucks, in partnership with OTG, launched its first airport-based pickup-only unit at George Bush International Airport’s Terminal E. The concept exclusively accepts mobile orders via the Starbucks app, allowing travellers to order ahead and pick up their items without waiting in line, enhancing convenience for airport customers.
   
• In July 2024, SSP, in collaboration with Starbucks and Heathrow, launched a new Starbucks store at Heathrow Terminal 5. The store spans 252 sq.m. and can seat up to 50 guests. With nine coffee machines, it efficiently serves hundreds of passengers every hour, handling the high foot traffic at the terminal.
   

The airport quick service restaurant market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue in USD Million from 2021 – 2034 for the following segments:

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Market, By Cuisine Type

• Fast Food Chains     
  • Burger & Fries         
  • Pizza  
  • Chicken Products     
  • Sandwich & Wraps  
  • Others          
• Beverages    
  • Coffee
  • Smoothies     
  • Milkshakes    
  • Others
• Bakery & Confectionery      
  • Cakes & Pastries      
  • Cookies         
  • Pies and Tarts         
  • Muffins         
  • Others
• International Cuisine
  • Italian
  • Chinese        
  • Mexican        
  • Indian
  • Others

Market, By Franchisee Type

• Branded Chains
• Local Brands

Market, By Service

• Eat in
• Takeaway

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America 
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe 
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
• Asia Pacific 
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea
• Latin America 
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• Middle East and Africa 
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE