Asia-Pacific

Qantas: From Perth to Paris

Gordon Smith photo
Gordon Smith and Jay Shabat

Photo Credit: Qantas anticipates 2 years of pent-up international demand from the Covid-19 pandemic. Flickr / Kevin Hackert

In part one of this week's podcast, Gordon Smith and Jay Shabat discuss Qantas' latest ultra long-haul endeavor and ask what it tells us about the carrier's wider commercial strategy. In part two, we examine the latest twists and turns at Southwest Airlines as the company continues to fend off an activist investor. 

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Key Points:

Qantas' New Ultra Long-Haul Flights:

  • Introduction of Qantas' new 17-hour, 20-minute flight from Perth to Paris.
  • Discussion on the practicality and personal preferences regarding such long flights.
  • Qantas' existing ultra long-haul routes from Perth to London and Rome have high net promoter scores and financial success.

Project Sunrise and Future Plans:

  • Qantas' Project Sunrise aims to connect Sydney and Melbourne to London and New York nonstop by 2026.
  • Introduction of the specially modified A350-1000 aircraft for these routes.
  • Emphasis on comfort and wellness zones in the marketing of Project Sunrise flights.

Impact on Other Airlines and Partnerships:

  • Potential impact on Emirates and other Gulf carriers due to Qantas' new routes.
  • Discussion on the Qantas-Emirates joint venture and potential strain on cooperation.
  • Mention of Air New Zealand's challenges with long-haul flights and its previous London route.

Perth Airport Developments:

  • New $3 billion agreement between Qantas and Perth Airport for terminal and runway upgrades.
  • Future international services planned from Perth, including to Auckland and Johannesburg.
  • Possible changes in Perth's role once Project Sunrise flights begin from Sydney and Melbourne.