Qantas is set to enhance its international network, adding new aircraft, destinations, and schedule changes. These improvements will better utilize the fleet and meet growing customer demand in key Asia Pacific and US markets.
Starting February 2025, the airline will embark on an ambitious 12-month plan, introducing approximately 220,000 additional seats to its global network. This significant boost comes as a response to surging customer demand in key markets across Asia Pacific and the United States.
The expansion is underpinned by three pivotal developments:
- the launch of a new route connecting Brisbane to Palau,
- the return of two refurbished Airbus A380s, and
- the introduction of the A220 aircraft on international flights.
These enhancements are poised to not only increase capacity but also elevate the overall travel experience for Qantas passengers.
Strengthening Connections to the United States
Qantas is ramping up its service to the United States. The airline plans to boost capacity by an impressive 13%, with a particular focus on premium travel.
Long-haul flights will see a substantial 30% increase in premium seating options, thanks to the reintegration of more A380s into the network from August 2025.
The Airbus A380 is set to make a return to the Sydney-Dallas route for the first time since pre-Covid. Daily flights to be operated by a mix of A380 and 787 aircraft.
Brisbane-based travelers also have cause to celebrate, with the reintroduction of Boeing 787 Dreamliners on routes to Los Angeles and Auckland. This means passengers will now have access to the coveted Premium Economy class, along with an overall increase in available seats.
Introducing the ‘Palau Paradise Express’
In an exciting development, Qantas is adding the pristine island nation of Palau to its destination roster. The new ‘Palau Paradise Express’ will operate weekly flights from Brisbane using the airline’s 737 aircraft.
This service, born from a contract with the Federal Government, serves a dual purpose. It strengthens diplomatic and economic ties between Australia and Palau while offering Qantas customers access to a breathtaking new holiday destination.
Crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine ecosystems, and world-class diving spots make Palau world renowned. The airline anticipates strong interest from travelers eager to explore this Pacific paradise. Flights are expected to commence in the near future and tickets available for purchase within weeks.
Darwin-Singapore Route: A220 Deployment
March 2025 will mark another milestone for Qantas as it deploys its cutting-edge A220 aircraft on the Darwin-Singapore route.
This move represents the A220’s international debut under the QantasLink banner. Operating five times per week, the larger 137-seat aircraft will significantly boost capacity. It will offer over 70,000 seats annually on this increasingly popular route.
The introduction of the A220 is part of a broader fleet modernization strategy. These advanced jets are gradually replacing the long-serving Boeing 717s, bringing enhanced efficiency and passenger comfort to both domestic and short-haul international routes.
With almost twice the range of its predecessor, the A220 opens up exciting possibilities for new international connections from various points across Australia.
Jetstar to Service Seoul
In a strategic realignment of resources, Qantas will cease its direct Sydney-Seoul service from mid-June 2025. However, this change doesn’t signal a retreat from the Korean market.
Instead, Jetstar, Qantas’ low-cost subsidiary, will step up to meet the growing demand by increasing its flights from four per week to a daily service.
This adjustment is expected to result in a net increase in seat capacity between the two cities. It caters particularly well to the burgeoning leisure travel segment.
Cam Wallace, Qantas Group International CEO, gave comment about these developments. “We’re thrilled to offer our customers over 220,000 additional seats, a new international destination, and our cutting-edge A220 aircraft for Singapore-Darwin flights. The return of more A380s means more premium seats on popular international routes.”
Wallace emphasized the strategic nature of these changes, noting, “These adjustments align perfectly with our fleet renewal program. This ensures we have the right aircraft for each route while meeting growing customer demand.”
“Our dual-brand strategy with Jetstar provides the flexibility needed to optimize our combined fleets and cater to diverse market segments.”
With enhanced capacity, new destinations, and a modernized fleet, Qantas is setting the stage for a new era of international air travel.
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