Qantas Expands NZ Routes as A380s Return

Qantas is reshaping its international network as two of its remaining Airbus A380s return to service. The airline aims to grow trans-Tasman capacity and improve long-haul operations, though the changes may challenge rivals and add pressure to its widebody fleet. The superjumbos will take over routes such as Sydney to Dallas Fort Worth, which will free up Boeing 787 Dreamliners for important regional services across the Tasman Sea.

This shift comes at a crucial time. New Airbus A350-1000 aircraft are not expected before late 2025 and will not enter regular service until 2027. With only seven of its 10 A380s currently flying due to ongoing maintenance and cabin refurbishment delays, Qantas has been operating under long-haul constraints. The reactivation of the last two A380s will offer much-needed flexibility as global demand for international travel grows.

A core part of Qantas’ strategy is the redeployment of Dreamliners to trans-Tasman routes. From August, Qantas will begin operating a Boeing 787 on the Brisbane to Auckland route three times each week. This will increase to daily flights by October. Previously served by a smaller Boeing 737, the upgraded route will now feature 42 lie-flat business class seats and 28 premium economy seats, marking a more premium offering that targets competition from Air New Zealand’s enhanced Dreamliners.

In addition to the Auckland route, Qantas is shifting a Dreamliner from the Melbourne to Delhi route to instead service Brisbane to Los Angeles from October. This will replace an A330 on that route. Qantas also plans to increase capacity on trans-Tasman services by 20 percent in December and January during the holiday travel peak. More weekly flights will be added from Sydney to New Zealand cities including Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland. The airline is also bringing back nonstop flights between Adelaide and Auckland.

This network adjustment comes at a time when travel between Australia and New Zealand remains strong. Earlier this year, more Australians than ever before visited New Zealand. The increase in Qantas flights will support growing tourism demand, improve seat availability and strengthen the airline’s position in the region. Continued aircraft reliability and smooth execution will be key as the peak travel season approaches.

Source: The Australian, Qantas, Simple Flying, Asian Aviation