ROUTES - Qantas to Replace A380 with A350-1000 Starting Early 2030

 

Australian carrier to introduce Airbus A350-1000 on key international routes as Singapore and Los Angeles

Qantas is set to introduce the Airbus A350-1000 on select international routes, marking the gradual retirement of its Airbus A380-800 fleet. Services to Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) will commence in early 2030, according to the Australian carrier.

Currently, Qantas operates 10 A380 aircraft on various routes, including Sydney to London and Los Angeles. The transition to the A350-1000 is expected to start from fiscal year 2032, with the new aircraft serving as the airline’s flagship for ultra-long-haul flights.

The A350-1000 features a reduced capacity of 238 seats compared to the A380’s 485, reflecting a design focused on comfort and premium travel. This change is anticipated to align with the strong demand for nonstop services, particularly on routes connecting Australia with Europe and North America.

Qantas fleet of A350-1000 will reach 24 aircraft (Airbus)

The introduction of the A350 will facilitate direct flights that significantly reduce travel time compared to current one-stop itineraries, appealing to both business and leisure travelers.

Qantas’s A350-1000s will be configured to enhance passenger experience, with the Project Sunrise initiative maintaining a full-service layout that includes updated first-class and premium economy cabins. However, the previously planned ‘Wellbeing Zone’ has been removed, and the airline will increase economy seating to optimize revenue.

Qantas aims to be a leading operator of nonstop flights between Australia and major destinations in Europe and North America by 2030, reinforcing its position in the ultra-long-haul segment.

ADN