On Sunday, 30 March, Qantas celebrated the launch of its first-ever direct Darwin-to-Singapore service. This new route introduces more than 70,000 additional seats annually between the two cities.
For residents of the Northern Territory, it offers the quickest way to reach Asia and Europe, including a seamless one-stop journey to London.
International travelers also benefit, as the direct flight eliminates the need to connect through other Australian cities, cutting hours off their trips to Darwin.
Qantas Singapore Services
The new service will run four times a week using Qantas’ Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Flights are scheduled to align with the airline’s flagship A380 services from Singapore to London. It also complements connections to other destinations in Europe and Asia via partner airlines.
Departures from Darwin occur on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 2:55 PM, arriving in Singapore by 6:15 PM. Return flights leave Singapore at 7:20 PM and land in Darwin at 1:40 AM the next day. Each flight leg takes just under five hours.
Top End Expansion
Cam Wallace, Qantas CEO International, shared his enthusiasm for the new Northern Territory expansion. “We’re thrilled to give Territorians another global connection. This route offers a faster, smoother travel experience to Asia and Europe.”
“It’s a win for locals and tourists alike, while also boosting trade and business ties between Australia and Singapore.” He added that the extra seats will make Darwin an attractive first stop for international visitors exploring Australia.
Wallace also noted that 2025 promises growth for Qantas and Jetstar in the Northern Territory, with over 180,000 new seats and additional routes, including a Jetstar service to the Gold Coast later this year.
Local leaders echoed this excitement. Robyn Cahill OAM, Minister for Trade, Business, and Asian Relations, called it “a major milestone for Darwin.”
She highlighted how the flights will enhance travel options, competition, and connectivity for residents and businesses.
Rob Porter from the Airport Development Group added comment. “This route strengthens our links to the world. It positions the Territory as a key gateway, opening doors for tourism, trade, and economic growth.”
Singapore Tourism Board’s Oliver Chong welcomed the new service, noting the short flight time of under five hours.
“Singapore is perfect for a quick getaway from Darwin—whether it’s sampling our famous food, shopping, or relaxing at a wellness retreat. With new attractions like Rainforest Wild Asia, our fifth wildlife park, there’s always something fresh to explore.”
The Boeing 737-800 aircraft feature 12 Business Class seats and 162 Economy seats. Eligible Qantas customers and Frequent Flyers can enjoy perks like access to the Qantas Club in Darwin and premium lounges at Singapore’s Changi Airport.
Qantas History in the Territory
This route builds on Qantas’ long history with Darwin. Back in May 1935, Darwin was the last Australian stop on the original Kangaroo Route to London.
This was originally a journey that took four and a half days with five stops between Darwin and Singapore.
By 1979, Qantas flights paused in Darwin weekly, and the last direct service to Singapore ran until June 2006. Today’s flight, at just 4 hours and 50 minutes, marks a dramatic leap forward.
With its blend of convenience, competitive pricing, and strategic timing, this new Darwin-Singapore service promises to reshape travel for Territorians and visitors alike.
It’s a bold step toward making the Northern Territory a thriving hub in the global travel network.
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