Qantas has announced its plan to launch its second international route from Darwin, introducing direct flights connecting the Northern Territory to Singapore.
This new service from the Australian ‘Top End’, set to commence in December 2024, is poised to offer more than 60,000 additional seats annually on this route.
Direct to Singapore from the Top End
From December 9, 2024, Qantas will operate these novel flights five days a week, utilizing the dual-class Embraer E190 aircraft.
This frequency is set to increase to a daily service from March 2025, providing Territorians with increased convenience.
No longer will they have to endure the hassle of long connecting flights through other Australian cities to reach Singapore, resulting in significant time savings.
Establishment of E190 Base in Darwin
The establishment of the E190 base at Darwin Airport is pivotal to the realization of this ambitious project.
The E190’s size, range, and economic viability have unlocked new routes that were previously deemed unfeasible with larger aircraft.
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This achievement also follows the successful launch of international flights to Dili in 2022, further solidifying Darwin’s position as a growing aviation hub.
CEO Cam Wallace Comments
Cam Wallace, Qantas International CEO, expressed enthusiasm about the Singapore service, emphasizing its positive impact on trade, business, and tourism links between Australia and Singapore.
The direct service not only benefits Territorians traveling to Singapore but also offers seamless connections to London, Europe, and various destinations in Asia, effectively reducing travel time by hours.
Restoring the UK Link
This new route marks the restoration of the link to the UK, initially established when international borders reopened post-pandemic.
Qantas temporarily rerouted its London flight via Darwin, showcasing the airline’s commitment to fostering global connections with the support of the Northern Territory Government and Darwin Airport.
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Joel Bowden, views this new service as a significant milestone for Darwin’s aviation capacity.
He sees it as fantastic news for Territorians, offering more choices, competitiveness, and enhanced connectivity.
The flights not only cater to locals seeking overseas travel but also strengthen ties with international markets, benefitting the growing cohort of business travelers.
Qantas History in Darwin-Singapore
Highlighting Qantas’ historical significance, Darwin served as the final stopover on the original Kangaroo Route from Australia to London in 1935.
Over the years, Qantas has maintained its commitment to this route, with Darwin being an essential link in its international network. The direct service now reduces the flight time from Darwin to Singapore from several days to a mere four hours and 45 minutes.
Eligible Qantas customers and Frequent Flyers will enjoy exclusive access to the Qantas Club in Darwin before clearing immigration and security.
On their return journey, these customers will have the added benefit of accessing the Qantas International First or Business Lounge at Singapore’s Changi Airport.
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