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Qantas Unveils New Auckland International Lounge Ahead of Holiday Rush
Qantas is set to give trans‑Tasman and long‑haul travellers a major upgrade this summer with the opening of its brand-new Auckland International Lounge, timed perfectly for the peak holiday season. Located at Auckland Airport, the redesigned space is 60 per cent larger than the previous lounge and can now host more than 370 guests across distinct zones for dining, relaxing and working, supporting the airline’s expanding trans‑Tasman network. Travellers can explore Qantas routes and benefits via the airline’s official website, Qantas. More Space, New Zones and Premium Dining The new Auckland International Lounge has been created as a key hub for customers flying across the Tasman and onwards to global destinations, including the popular non‑stop Auckland–New York service. The layout introduces clearly defined spaces for different travel moods: quiet corners for business travellers catching up on work, social areas for families and groups, and dining zones where guests can settle in for a proper meal before boarding. Charging is now available at around 70 per cent of seats and there are fifteen shower suites, giving long‑haul guests the chance to freshen up mid‑journey. In a first for the Qantas global lounge network, Platinum One and Platinum Frequent Flyers gain access to a dedicated à la carte dining area within the lounge. Curated by Qantas Creative Director of Food, Beverage and Service Neil Perry, the seasonal menu highlights New Zealand ingredients with plates like crumbed local fish and chips, alongside Qantas First favourites including salt and pepper squid and signature pavlova. Elsewhere in the lounge, guests can enjoy a buffet featuring Kiwi produce, a gelato station and a full cocktail bar serving premium drinks and barista‑made coffee. Design That Brings New Zealand’s Outdoors Inside The design team, led by David Caon in collaboration with Architectus, Akin Atelier and Simon James Design, set out to celebrate New Zealand’s landscape while maintaining continuity with Qantas’ global lounge aesthetic. Living green walls, travertine tiles and terrazzo tabletops create a relaxed, natural feel, while bespoke furniture upholstered in New Zealand wool and leather adds warmth and tactility. Signature Qantas design cues, such as porthole‑style windows and sweeping curved walls, have been reimagined with handmade glass and lush greenery to soften the space. A four‑metre artwork by Gabrielle Penfold depicting North Head at Devonport anchors the room and gives the lounge a strong sense of place. Strengthening Qantas’ Trans‑Tasman Hub Qantas describes the new lounge as a major investment in the customer journey, recognising that the pre‑flight experience is an important part of how travellers perceive their trip overall. Auckland is a strategic hub for the Flying Kangaroo’s international network, linking Australian cities with New Zealand, North America and beyond, and the expanded lounge supports plans to grow trans‑Tasman operations in 2026 with new routes and extra capacity over key peak periods such as Christmas and the April school holidays. The Qantas Auckland International Lounge officially opens on 17 December, just as holiday traffic peaks. For Australian and New Zealand travellers heading across the ditch, onward to New York or further afield, it promises a calmer, more spacious and distinctly local place to start – or break – their journey with Qantas. VIDEO
Virgin Australia and Qantas Ban Portable Power Banks: Here is what you need to know
Starting from December 2025, major Australian airlines Virgin Australia and Qantas will implement stricter rules on the use of portable power banks amid growing safety concerns over lithium battery incidents. This move follows a string of international events, including a fire caused by a power bank onboard a Virgin Australia flight in July 2025. From 1 December, Virgin Australia passengers must keep their power banks within sight and easily accessible at all times during flights. The use or charging of power banks onboard will be prohibited, and travellers will be limited to carrying only two units. Any power banks exceeding 100 watt-hours will require airline approval. Qantas, along with QantasLink and Jetstar, will enforce similar rules starting 15 December. Passengers will be allowed to carry up to two power banks under 160 watt-hours each, which must be carried exclusively in cabin baggage. Power banks remain banned from checked luggage on both airlines. These changes align with international safety standards to reduce the risks posed by lithium batteries on aircraft. Virgin Australia’s Chief Operations Officer, Chris Snook, emphasised that as more lithium battery-powered devices are carried by travellers globally, these updated measures will help minimise potential safety risks. Experts highlight that while battery fires are unlikely to jeopardise an aircraft’s safety directly, they can cause significant damage and operational disruptions, including costly diversions. Airlines are motivated not only by safety but also by liability concerns and the potential costs of passenger injury claims. Passengers can still use in-seat power outlets to charge devices, but the new restrictions on portable chargers aim to enhance overall flight safety. For travellers, adjusting to the new rules may require some planning. FCM Travel’s General Manager ANZ, Renos Rologas, advises business travellers and others who depend heavily on charging devices to be aware of these changes and to adapt strategies accordingly. Some helpful tips include: Fully charge your devices before boarding. Utilise airport charging stations while waiting for flights. Bring compatible charging cables for onboard USB ports. Prefer tablets over laptops for easier in-flight charging. Use in-flight entertainment systems to save device battery. Purchase certified power banks from reputable manufacturers. Always carry power banks in hand luggage, never in checked bags. For detailed, airline-specific policy updates, passengers should consult Virgin Australia’s official website and Qantas’ official website. These safety measures ensure clearer guidance across airlines and aim to protect all travellers from the risks associated with lithium battery-powered devices.
Qantas Introduces Airbus A321XLR on Sydney-Brisbane Route, Elevating Travel on Australia’s Busiest Domestic Flyway
Qantas has launched its newest narrowbody aircraft, the Airbus A321XLR, on Australia’s second busiest route between Sydney and Brisbane, marking a significant upgrade in cabin comfort, efficiency, and sustainability. Following its debut earlier this year on Sydney-Melbourne and Sydney-Perth flights, Queenslanders are now the latest to experience the roomier cabin featuring higher ceilings, wider seats, larger windows, and enhanced overhead storage with about 60% more space compared to the older Boeing 737s being replaced. The Airbus A321XLR also offers free Wi-Fi, a quieter ride, and reduced fuel consumption per seat, contributing to Qantas’ progress toward its sustainability goals. The aircraft seats 197 passengers, including an increased Business Class section with 20 lie-flat seats planned on later aircraft for longer and international routes. This model can fly up to 8,700 km, enabling new direct domestic and regional international connections. Qantas Domestic CEO Markus Svensson highlighted the aircraft’s significance for Queensland, home to Qantas’ origins and an important part of its network. Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff praised the quieter operation as beneficial for surrounding communities and noted how the arrival aligns with Brisbane Airport’s ongoing terminal enhancements, including upgraded screening, expanded retail, and improved passenger facilities. Currently, Qantas operates two A321XLRs with a third aircraft named Seven Peaks Walk expected imminently, and a total of 48 on order as part of the airline’s largest-ever fleet renewal program. This fresh generation of aircraft promises to deliver a superior travel experience for passengers while supporting environmental commitments. For travellers flying the Sydney-Brisbane corridor, spotting the new A321XLR at the gate means enjoying a quieter, more spacious, and tech-forward journey — a preview of Australia’s modern domestic air travel future.
Qantas’ visionary Project Sunrise aircraft takes shape in France
The Qantas aircraft set to conquer the final frontier of long-haul travel is now on the Airbus assembly line in Toulouse. Australia’s national carrier and the global aircraft manufacturing firm recently released the first images of the A350-1000ULR (Ultra Long Range) aircraft, following the completion of major production milestones at the Airbus manufacturing facility. Once completed, Qantas’ A350-1000ULR will enable the airline to move forward towards its goal of making aviation history with non-stop flights between Australia and London and New York. Greater endurance in flight Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson pointed out that this development brings the airline’s Project Sunrise one step closer to reality. Hudson said: “Given Australia’s position in the world, Qantas has a long history of breaking aviation barriers. Project Sunrise will not only overcome the tyranny of distance, it will fundamentally change the way our customers travel the world. These flights will cut up to four hours off the journey and transform how people experience ultra long-haul travel, through science backed design to minimise jetlag and maximise wellbeing.” The Project Sunrise name is a nod to the airline’s historic Double Sunrise endurance flights during the Second World War, which remained airborne long enough to see two sunrises. The first of 12 new aircraft is scheduled for delivery in late 2026, with the first commercial Project Sunrise services commencing in the first half of 2027. Current progress All key airframe components including the forward, centre and rear fuselage sections have come together, along with the wings, tail section and landing gear now attached. This week the aircraft will be transferred to a new hangar where it will have engines and flight test instruments installed, in preparation for an extensive test flight programme, commencing in 2026. These specially configured A350-1000ULRs will enable the world’s longest commercial flights, connecting Australia’s east coast non-stop to London and New York for the first time. Game-changer The aircraft will fly for up to 22 hours non-stop, made possible by an additional 20,000 litre rear centre fuel tank and enhanced systems, with every element designed around passenger comfort and wellbeing for ultra-long-haul operations. The direct services will cut up to four hours off total travel time, compared with one-stop services today. The cabins have been developed from the ground up in collaboration with aviation specialists, Australian industrial designer David Caon, and a multidisciplinary team of experts from the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre. This includes sleep scientists working to combat jetlag through features like unique, customised lighting design and timed meal service. Key to the cabin design has been giving passengers more space, with a 238-seat configuration versus the 300-plus seats layout used by other A350-1000 operators. This includes a purpose-built Wellbeing Zone located between the Premium Economy and Economy cabins featuring integrated stretch handles, guided on-screen exercise programs, a hydration station, and a range of refreshments.
Qantas unlocks two million discounted seats for India
Qantas, Australia’s largest airline and national carrier, launched its first-ever Qantas Explorer fare sale in India. In partnership with Tourism Australia, the campaign is designed to inspire Indian travellers to discover the unparalleled beauty and adventure of Australia. This partnership leverages Qantas’ nonstop flights from India and extensive domestic network across Australia for Indian travellers. In a first for Qantas, the airline has unlocked an extra two million discounted Qantas Explorer fares, in addition to its existing discounted offerings, available for booking from 27 October until 26 November, offering unprecedented value for Indian travellers looking to explore Australia's diverse regions. Qantas Explorer is designed to help international travellers see more of Australia for less. When booked in conjunction with an international Qantas flight from India, travellers can access discounted fares to over 45 destinations, representing a discount up to 20 per cent off the base fare (excluding taxes, fees and carrier charges). This allows for a truly immersive Australian adventure, with suggested itineraries available on the Qantas website that encourage exploration beyond the key gateways of Sydney and Melbourne. The campaign aims to showcase Australia’s iconic destinations and breathtaking natural wonders, from the vibrant Sydney Harbour and the majestic Great Barrier Reef to the spiritual heart of Uluru and the ancient landscapes of Kakadu National Park. Nick McGlynn, Executive Vice President, Qantas said, “We're thrilled to partner with Tourism Australia on our first-ever Explorer fare sale for the Indian market. Travel between India and Australia continues to grow and with two million discounted Explorer fares and our direct flights, we're making it easier and more affordable than ever to explore our incredible landscapes beyond Sydney and Melbourne." According toNishant Kashikar, Country Manager – India & Gulf, Tourism Australia, “India is a vital market for Australian tourism, and this campaign, featuring Ruby the Kangaroo, is a fantastic way to showcase Australia’s unique experiences and warm welcome. This partnership will not only inspire Indian travellers to plan and book an Australian holiday but it will also offer ways for visitors to stay longer and explore more destinations right around the country.” Qantas Explorer fares can be booked directly by customers on qantas.com through the multi-city booking tool, or via their preferred travel agent. Qantas operates five weekly flights from Bengaluru to Sydney, as well as three weekly services from Delhi to Melbourne. Fares are available at qantas.com/in or via Travel Agents. All Qantas international fares include checked baggage allowance, food and beverages and in-flight entertainment with every booking.
Oman Air and Qantas boost loyalty partnership via reciprocal frequent flyer accrual
Oman Air and Qantas usher in a major milestone for travellers between Oman and Australia with activation of reciprocal frequent flyer accrual between Oman Air’s Sindbad and the Qantas Frequent Flyer programme. This development builds on a redemption agreement already in place: since October 2024, Sindbad members have been able to redeem their Miles on flights with Qantas, with Qantas members able to access the same benefits on Oman Air’s network. Now, post Oman Air’s joining oneworld, Sindbad members can also earn Miles and Tier Credits when flying with Qantas, while Qantas members can earn Points and Status Credits when flying with Oman Air. This strengthened partnership not only delivers greater rewards and recognition for Sindbad and Qantas Frequent Flyer members but also supports the national tourism objectives by encouraging more visitors from Australia to include Oman in their travel plans. With seamless connectivity and a new digital stopover programme, the airline makes it easier and more appealing than ever for guests to experience Oman as part of their journey. The opening of a new chapter Oman Air’s head of partnerships and alliances Rohan Patell declared: “Today marks an exciting new chapter in our relationship with Qantas and for Oman Air’s presence in Australia.” The airline’s vice-president for loyalty, guest experience, and brand Renata Rached added: “By building on our existing redemption arrangement, we are delivering even greater value and a truly seamless loyalty experience for our members, while making journeys to and beyond Muscat even more appealing.” Kate Sherwood, head of Qantas Airline Loyalty, pointed out that Qantas Frequent Flyers already have access to tens of thousands of reward seats across the Oman Air network. Sherwood said: “We’ve seen strong demand from members since launching our partnership last year. Now, with the opportunity for members to earn Qantas Points and Status Credits, travel with Oman Air across Asia, Europe and the Middle East will be even more rewarding.”
CT Connections points out what clients can expect from Qantas NDC
As Qantas rolls out its New Distribution Capability (NDC) platform today, 1st July, Australia's largest privately owned travel management and event company CT Connections has advised its clients that they may now enjoy immediate and first-mover access to the airline’s Premium NDC content. CT Connections’ clients will benefit from deeper discounts, bundled seat offers, status perks and companion fares from today, thanks to the business being the very first to access Qantas’ Premium NDC content from day one. At the same time, Premium NDC provides average savings of about 8 percent on Qantas domestic fares on top of clients’ existing airline corporate deals. CT Connections clients can also get tailored fare options and improved visibility on Qantas Points and Status Credits, discounted fares and tailored offers for Qantas Business Reward members and enhanced disruption management. This new development also enables clients to avoid the legacy EDIFACT surcharges of $11.50 per sector, by purchasing the Premium NDC content. Benefits from day one onwards According to Connections Travel Group’s chief commercial officer Andre Moten: “While other providers may offer standard NDC access, CT Connections is ready to deliver the full experience through the Qantas Premium NDC channel, ensuring our clients benefit from every innovation as it rolls out.” Moten added that it is clear from the conversations happening across the market that some providers are delaying adoption client-side, highlighting worst-case scenarios instead of real-world performance. As he puts it: “NDC isn’t theoretical. It’s already in play across the industry, and Qantas is simply the next major carrier to make the leap. While others stagger their rollouts, we’ve invested, trained, and gone live. We know our clients value continuity, speed, and clarity and our approach delivers all three. At Connections Travel Group, we’re not navigating uncertainty. We’re offering certainty in a changed environment.” CT Connections is a leader in the space and was the first Australian TMC to successfully book Qantas NDC content using Zeno by Serko. Moten added that being at the forefront of technological change was one of the reasons Connections Travel Group is now the largest privately owned travel company in Australia. The embrace of Qantas NDC comes as Connections Travel Group celebrates its 25th anniversary with its success driven by an operating philosophy framed around the African principle of Ubuntu meaning “I am because of you’’. Moten explained that part of that philosophy was an ability to lead change, not just react to it. He said: “At Connections Travel Group we pride ourselves on being a future-focused business and we are proud that CT Connections continues to lead that charge in the corporate travel space through its embrace of Qantas NDC. While others are still adjusting to these industry wide changes, CT Connections is ready. Our team is trained, our technology is in place and our clients can move forward confidently, knowing their travel program will be fulfilled with the best value-for-money options available, including the fullest selection from Qantas’ airfare inventory.’’
Qantas Group to shutter Jetstar Asia
The Qantas Group announced the closure of its intra-regional airline Jetstar Asia today, 11th June. Despite this, Jetstar Asia will continue operations for seven more weeks from today, terminating its services on 31st July 2025. This decision on the part of Qantas is in line with its current restructuring initiative in support of its fleet renewal programme; likewise, it will serve to strengthen the company’s core businesses in Oceania. Through the closure of Jetstar Asia, the Qantas Group will be able to recycle up to $500 million for use in its fleet renewal. Following this historic announcement, Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson remarked that Jetstar Asia has been a pioneering force in the Asian aviation market for over two decades and has made air travel more accessible to customers throughout the region, particularly in Southeast Asia. Hudson said: “We are incredibly proud of the Jetstar Asia team and the work they have done to deliver low fares, strong operational performance and exceptional customer service. This is a very tough day for them, so I want to sincerely thank and acknowledge our incredible Jetstar Asia team who should be very proud of the impact they have had on aviation in the region over the past two decades.” What happens now? According to an official release published by the Qantas Group earlier today, Jetstar Asia’s 13 Airbus A320 aircraft will be redeployed in stages between Australia and New Zealand. This will enable the company to offer more low fares for passengers whilst generating jobs between the two nations. It should likewise be noted that only 16 of Jetstar Asia’s intra-regional routes, specifically the ones operated from its base in Singapore, will be impacted by its closure. Operations for Jetstar Airways’ domestic and international operations in Australia and New Zealand as well as Jetstar Japan will continue as normal. Also, Jetstar Airways will continue to fly from Australia into Asia including to all its popular destinations across Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Japan and South Korea. In its official statement, Qantas Group advised Jetstar Asia customers with existing bookings on cancelled flights that they will be offered full refunds; likewise, the company will look into the possibility of rebooking customers onto other airlines. Meanwhile, Jetstar Asia employees directly impacted by the closure will be provided redundancy benefits as well as employment support services. Qantas is also actively working to find job opportunities for these employees across the Group and with other airlines in the region. Despite all these, Singapore will remain a critical hub for the Qantas Group as its third largest international airport. Qantas will continue to offer connections from Singapore through nearly 20 codeshare and interline partners to a variety of destinations across Asia. With the support of Qantas, Jetstar Asia will continue to meet its financial obligations to suppliers, employees and customers.
TPConnects Technologies marks significant increase in Qantas NDC bookings
IATA-certified global travel aggregator TPConnects Technologies announced a tenfold increase in Qantas NDC (New Distribution Capability) bookings today, 6th May. TPConnects reported a significant increase in NDC bookings for the Australian flag carrier via its Iris platform in just six months. This development is seen as a clear signal of the growing demand for modern airline retailing solutions among travel sellers. TPConnects Technologies director of product Stephanos Kykkotis declared: “Our success story with Qantas is a shining example of how airlines can leverage Iris to drive NDC adoption and harness the full potential of NDC. We are proud to be live with Qantas and to provide tremendous value to travel agencies globally, and even more so for Australia and New Zealand, by simplifying access to their rich NDC content.” For her part, Qantas head of distribution and payments Nadine Dawood Morgan remarked: “Our collaboration with TPConnects and the Iris platform is an important step in our NDC strategy. By making our NDC content, features, and benefits available on Iris, we're empowering travel sellers with the tools they need to offer our customers a wider range of products and a more personalized experience.” Travel sellers using Iris may access a wide array of Qantas' content and services via NDC, enhancing their ability to cater to the diverse needs of travelers. Australia and New Zealand have emerged as key markets for TPConnects Technologies, now accounting for 30 percent of the company’s global booking volume. Qantas represents a significant portion of this volume. As a Flight Centre Travel Group company, TPConnects is uniquely positioned to ensure travel sellers in the region have access to the most comprehensive content. Primary features Among the key features offered by TPConnects’ solution are: Access to Qantas NDC offers, including tailored offers for frequent flyers and corporates, enhancing customer loyalty. Multiple payment methods, including IATA BSP, credit or debit cards, and IATA EasyPay, providing flexibility and convenience. Streamlined booking and servicing functionalities and the ability to subsequently modify, void, refund or exchange an NDC ticket, reducing operational costs. Easy management of involuntary changes, improving customer service and minimizing disruptions. Split ticketing capability, enabling better efficiency and lower fares for customers. TPConnects Technologies’ Iris is a leading aggregator with a global customer base. Travel agencies using Iris have access to Qantas' NDC content alongside traditional EDIFACT, LCC, and other NDC content, all within a single, user-friendly interface. Iris simplifies the shopping and servicing of air travel, ensuring travel sellers can offer the most relevant fares and products from Qantas to their clients. Furthermore, Iris features NDC content from major airlines globally, supporting travel sellers across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific. Travel sellers can take advantage of advanced retailing features such as smart pricing, commission management and content control, as well as access rich content, and utilise end-to-end servicing options directly through Iris.
Qantas and Airbus Invest AUD$15 Million to Decarbonise Aviation
Qantas and Airbus have taken a significant step toward a greener future for aviation, announcing a joint investment of AUD$15 million in Climate Tech Partners (CTP). This partnership highlights the shared commitment of the two industry giants to accelerate the development of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and other groundbreaking decarbonisation technologies tailored specifically for aviation. The Partnership in Focus The announcement, made in Sydney by Airbus Chief Sustainability Officer Julie Kitcher and Qantas Chief Sustainability Officer Fiona Messent, underscores the critical need for collaboration to achieve net-zero emissions. Working closely with CTP, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between early-stage climate technologies and scalable commercial production in Australia. CTP’s innovative approach is built on a strong foundation of collaboration, involving 12 expert partners from diverse industries such as energy, infrastructure, and transport. By leveraging this collective expertise, the fund seeks to identify, mentor, and support local and global start-ups at the forefront of climate innovation. Driving Innovation in SAF The dedicated investment vehicle created through this partnership will focus on developing key SAF technologies, including feedstock production and value-chain innovations. As these solutions mature, Qantas and Airbus have the opportunity to further invest and deploy these technologies in real-world Australian projects. “This partnership with CTP and Qantas highlights that the scaling of Sustainable Aviation Fuel needs innovative solutions… Australia is well positioned to be a leader in low-carbon fuels,” said Airbus Chief Sustainability Officer Julie Kitcher. A Shared Vision for Australia Qantas Chief Sustainability Officer Fiona Messent highlighted the broader benefits for the country: “For Australia, an onshore SAF industry will mean improved national fuel security, more jobs, and economic benefit. It’s fantastic to be collaborating across industries to help accelerate local production.” Supporting a Net-Zero Future The AUD$15 million investment comes from Qantas and Airbus’ US$200 million partnership, established in 2022 to fast-track SAF production and adoption. This collaboration reflects the ambition of both companies to decarbonise aviation at scale while creating significant opportunities for innovation and growth in Australia’s green economy. Through CTP, Qantas and Airbus will fund emerging technologies and companies, providing these ventures with access to their expertise, real-world application platforms, and industry networks. Patrick Sieb, Co-Founder of CTP, said, “Working with global leading aviation and aerospace companies allows us to make better-informed investment decisions in this complex area, while helping the best start-ups accelerate their solutions through industry engagement.” Transforming Aviation, One Investment at a Time Climate Tech Partners, a leader in climate-focused venture capital at the Series A stage, aligns its goals with those of corporate partners like Qantas and Airbus. By supporting scalable innovations in energy, logistics, and industrial resources, CTP plays a vital role in commercialising impactful climate technologies. With their combined expertise and funding, Qantas and Airbus are not only fuelling a cleaner future for aviation but also paving the way for sustainable economic development in Australia. The Road Ahead As global aviation faces the challenge of decarbonisation, partnerships like this set an inspiring example of action through innovation. For Qantas, Airbus, and Australia, this initiative is a significant step toward creating a robust SAF supply chain that delivers environmental, economic, and social benefits. Stay tuned as Climate Tech Partners, with the backing of these aviation giants, accelerates the deployment of breakthrough climate solutions—transforming the skies and the planet for future generations. For more information, visit Qantas or Airbus.
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