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Qantas Doubles Sydney-Sapporo Flights for 2026/27: More Seats to Hokkaido’s World-Class Ski Slopes
Qantas is ramping up its popular Sydney-Sapporo route with a 50% capacity boost for the 2026/27 Northern Hemisphere winter season, adding over 10,000 seats to meet surging demand from Australian snow seekers flocking to Hokkaido’s legendary powder fields. Record Japan Travel Fuels Expansion Fresh data from the Japan National Tourism Organisation shows over one million Australians visited Japan in 2025 — a 15% jump from the previous record year, including 121,300 during the December school holidays alone. Qantas, the sole provider of direct Sydney-Sapporo flights since launching seasonally in December 2025, has already carried nearly 10,000 passengers midway through the current season. This non-stop link — marking Sapporo as Qantas’s 100th international destination — responds to exceptional performance by expanding from three weekly flights to up to five during peak periods, delivering nearly 35,000 total seats between the cities. Enhanced Schedule for Peak Ski Season The upgraded timetable targets Hokkaido’s prime snow months: 7–15 December 2026: Three weekly (Mon, Wed, Sat) 16 December 2026–31 January 2027: Up to five weekly (Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun) 1–28 February 2027: Four weekly (Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat) 1–31 March 2027: Three weekly (Mon, Wed, Sat) Return Economy fares start at AUD$1,473 via qantas.com, offering seamless access to Japan’s premier ski resorts like Niseko and Rusutsu. Qantas Commits to Japan Growth “Since launching Sydney-Sapporo last month, customer response has been incredibly strong,” said Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace. “Japan is a key focus in Asia. These extra flights strengthen ties between our nations and give Australians more direct access to Hokkaido’s snow.” Book now at Qantas.com to secure your spot on Australia’s gateway to Japan’s winter wonderland.
Qantas announces New Year, New Zealand offer for Filipino travellers
Australian flag-carrier Qantas now makes it easier for Filipino travellers to explore the stunning landscapes of New Zealand with its new New Year, New Zealand sale. The sale, offering special promotional fares, will run from now till 31st January for Economy Class travel during select periods between February and December 2026. According to Qantas executive vice-president in Asia Nick McGlynn: “The Philippines remains a key and growing market for Qantas, and we see a strong desire for travel to aspirational destinations like New Zealand. As part of our ongoing commitment to the region, we are thrilled to launch the New Year, New Zealand campaign. This sale offers fantastic value and provides a seamless, premium travel experience for our customers to explore the country’s world-renowned attractions.” Improved connectivity This new campaign significantly enhances connectivity for travellers from the Philippines, offering a seamless gateway to New Zealand. It provides excellent connections to the majestic South Island with service into Christchurch and the adventure capital of Queenstown, as well as to the North Island hubs of Auckland and Wellington. With a quick and convenient connection through Sydney, customers can enjoy the award-winning Qantas experience before arriving in New Zealand, ready to explore its world-renowned scenery. Travellers from the Philippines can connect from Manila through to the four major cities in New Zealand via Sydney, providing excellent and convenient connections. Customers can also take advantage of Qantas Explorer, making it easy to connect to regional destinations across New Zealand.
Qantas launches New Zealand sale for Singapore travellers
Australia's national carrier, Qantas, has announced a 'New Year, New Zealand' sale, aimed at making travel from Singapore to New Zealand more accessible. The sale, which features special promotional fares, will run from 22 January to 31 January 2026, covering Economy Class travel from March to November 2026. The campaign provides seamless connections for Singapore travellers to New Zealand's North Island hubs, Auckland and Wellington, as well as the South Island's Christchurch, via Sydney. This initiative is part of Qantas's strategy to enhance connectivity for Singapore customers, offering a premium travel experience to explore New Zealand's renowned landscapes. Nick McGlynn, Executive Vice President, Asia Qantas, stated, "Singapore remains a key strategic market for Qantas, and we are seeing strong growth in demand for travel to aspirational destinations like New Zealand. As part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing connectivity for our customers in Singapore, we are thrilled to launch the ‘New Year, New Zealand’ campaign." Return fares start from $640 (S$880) for Singapore to Christchurch, $651 (S$895) to Auckland, and $661 (S$908) to Wellington, all via Sydney. The fares include checked baggage, food and beverages, and in-flight entertainment. Travellers can book these fares through qantas.com or travel agents. Additionally, Qantas Explorer offers discounted fares to regional destinations across New Zealand, allowing Singapore travellers to further explore the country. The sale ends at 11:59pm on 31 January 2026, with terms and conditions applicable. ```
Qantas and Virgin Australia Named Among World’s Safest Airlines for 2026
Australia’s two major carriers, Qantas and Virgin Australia, have been ranked among the world’s safest airlines for 2026 in the latest AirlineRatings.com global safety index. In a strong showing for Australian aviation, Qantas placed third and Virgin Australia ninth in the Top 25 list of full-service airlines, reinforcing both brands’ reputations for safety, training and operational reliability. Etihad Tops 2026 Global Airline Safety Rankings For the first time, a Gulf carrier has taken out the top spot in AirlineRatings.com’s annual safety rankings, with Etihad Airways named the world’s safest full-service airline for 2026. The Abu Dhabi-based airline was recognised for its young fleet, crash-free history, cockpit safety advancements (particularly around turbulence) and the lowest incident rate per flight of any carrier on the list. Cathay Pacific secured second place, followed by Qantas in third, Qatar Airways in fourth and Emirates in fifth, all drawn from an assessment pool of 320 airlines worldwide. The rankings weigh factors such as incident rates, fleet age, serious safety events, pilot training, and compliance with international safety audits. Qantas and Virgin Australia in the Top 10 Qantas once again features prominently, taking third place among full-service airlines and maintaining its long-standing position as one of the world’s safest carriers. Virgin Australia also earned a coveted Top 10 position, ranking ninth and underlining the strength of Australian safety standards across both international and domestic operations. Alongside Qantas and Virgin Australia, the full-service Top 10 for 2026 includes Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines, EVA Air and Korean Air, creating a tightly packed field of global leaders. AirlineRatings CEO Sharon Petersen notes that the performance gap at the top is now so narrow that small numerical differences should not be over-interpreted. How AirlineRatings.com Measures Airline Safety AirlineRatings.com evaluates 320 airlines each year, using a multi-factor methodology that includes: Incident rates per number of flights, adjusted for scale of operations. Serious accidents and safety events over recent years. Fleet age and aircraft maintenance profile. Pilot training practices and internal safety culture. Results from international safety and IOSA audits. For the 2026 report, the index places greater emphasis on turbulence prevention and cockpit safety measures, reflecting the fact that turbulence remains the leading cause of in-flight injuries. Despite every airline on the list experiencing some incidents—from tail strikes to engine shutdowns—the incident rate per flight across the Top 25 sits between just 0.002 and 0.09, which Petersen calls a “true credit to the industry as a whole.” Safest Low-Cost Airlines: HK Express, Jetstar and Scoot In the low-cost category, Hong Kong-based HK Express has been named the world’s safest budget airline for 2026, retaining its top position for a second time. Jetstar Airways, part of the Qantas Group, ranked second, giving Australia another strong result, while Scoot, the low-cost arm of Singapore Airlines, placed third. HK Express was praised for its modern fleet, exceptionally low incident rate and near-flawless onboard safety audits—particularly noteworthy given Hong Kong’s very strict incident reporting requirements. Other low-cost names in the Top 10 include flydubai, EasyJet Group, Southwest, airBaltic, VietJet Air, Wizz Air Group and AirAsia Group. Why These Rankings Matter for Travellers For travellers comparing airlines on busy routes across Asia-Pacific, Europe and the Middle East, the 2026 AirlineRatings.com list offers an independent snapshot of global safety leaders. However, Petersen stresses that all airlines in the Top 25 full-service and low-cost lists are considered world-class in safety terms, and that claims one is “significantly safer” than another within these groups are more sensationalist than factual. For Australian flyers, the results reinforce that choosing Qantas, Virgin Australia or Jetstar means flying with carriers recognised at the very top of global safety benchmarking—complementing their recent rankings among the most punctual airlines in the Asia-Pacific region.
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.”
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