Virgin Australia Takes Off to Doha: A New Era in Long-Haul Travel

Qatar Airways

Virgin Australia has officially returned to long-haul international flights with its inaugural Sydney-Doha service on June 12, 2025. This marks an exciting milestone for the airline and a new era of global connectivity for Australian travellers, opening up more than 170 destinations worldwide through its partnership with Qatar Airways.

A Game-Changing Partnership with Qatar Airways

The strategic alliance between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways is set to revolutionize the way Australians travel. By combining the strengths of two world-class airlines, the partnership offers an unparalleled global network with seamless connectivity to Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

With services commencing from Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, and Melbourne by December 2025, passengers will benefit from enhanced services and loyalty rewards while enjoying the convenience of multiple flight options across six continents.

Sky-High Comfort: The Boeing 777 Experience

The new Australia-Doha route offers passengers the chance to experience one of the best inflight experiences in the world. Qatar Airways’ Boeing 777 aircraft will operate the services, featuring:

• Qsuite Business Class: Winner of Skytrax’s World Airline Awards 2024, this cabin offers private suites, lie-flat beds, and even the option for couples to share a double bed in the sky.

• Spacious Economy Class: Offering one of the widest seats in the industry, the economy cabin provides ample legroom and exceptional service.

• High-speed Wi-Fi: All passengers will have access to complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout the journey.

Boosting Australia’s Economy and Creating Jobs

The launch of the Sydney-Doha route is more than just a travel opportunity; it’s a significant boost to Australia’s economy. The Virgin Australia-Qatar Airways alliance is projected to inject over $3 billion into the Australian economy over the next five years. This will create hundreds of new jobs across aviation, tourism, and hospitality sectors, while also opening up international opportunities for Virgin Australia’s staff through secondment opportunities with Qatar Airways.

Loyalty Perks for Velocity Members

Qatar Airways

Velocity Frequent Flyer members are in for a treat! From 12 June to 30 June 2025, those booking eligible flights between Australia and Doha will receive a 50% Status Credit bonus. This bonus will help members meet the new Status Credit requirements set to take effect from October 2025, offering a clearer path to maintaining or upgrading their status within the Velocity Frequent Flyer program.

Silver, Gold, and Platinum members will also earn additional points, including up to 100% bonus points for Platinum members, further enhancing their loyalty rewards.

Limited-Time Celebration Sale: Book Now and Save!

To celebrate this exciting new chapter, Virgin Australia is offering up to 15% off eligible fares to Doha and selected destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. These limited-time fares are available for travel dates from 16 October 2025 to 31 March 2026. Be sure to book before 30 June 2025 to take advantage of this special offer.

Virgin Australia’s return to long-haul international flights is a game-changer for Australian travellers, offering more destinations, enhanced services, and exciting loyalty benefits. Whether you're planning a trip to Europe, Africa, or the Middle East, this new partnership promises to make your journey smoother, more rewarding, and more exciting than ever.

For more travel inspiration, read the daily online The Holiday and Travel Magazine
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Qantas Celebrates 90 Years of International Flying

Qantas

Qantas is celebrating 90 years of international flying, marking an incredible milestone in the evolution of the aviation industry and nine decades of connecting Australia with the world.

On 17 April 1935, Qantas operated Australia's first international passenger flight from Brisbane to Singapore, carrying two customers on a DH86 aircraft. The flight took three and a half days with 16 stops along the way.

Almost a century later, over 273 million customers have flown across the Qantas international network which now spans 56 routes to 34 destinations in 25 countries around the world.

Qantas CEO International Cam Wallace said the anniversary is a proud moment in the national carrier's history.

“Our first international flight took over three days to reach Singapore from Brisbane, carrying just a few passengers and making more than 15 stops. Fast forward to today and we're flying thousands of passengers daily on nonstop services between Australia to Singapore and over 7.6 million customers travelled on our broader international network in 2024 – a powerful reflection of how far international travel has come.”

“We're incredibly proud of our history, but equally excited about what's ahead. This year will see more growth across the Qantas international network, with the launch of flights from Melbourne to Honolulu next month and Sydney to Sapporo later in the year.”

“We also look forward to the arrival of our new A350 aircraft, which will reshape what's possible in ultra-long-haul travel with the introduction of our Project Sunrise non-stop flights from Sydney to London and New York.”

To mark the occasion, Qantas is giving Australians a unique look at its history by unveiling a collection of historical content from its official archives, providing a fascinating snapshot of the aviation industry over the past 90 years.

Qantas will also unveil three limited edition amenity kits for Business customers featuring art from Qantas' historic archives. The amenity kits will roll out across the Qantas network in the coming months.

Fast facts:

• The first Qantas international flight operated from Brisbane to Singapore on 17 April 1935 with two passengers and took three and half days.
• Last year alone, over 7.6 million customers travelled on the Qantas international network with almost half a million customers flying from Australia to Singapore.
• The current average flying time between Brisbane and Singapore is 8 hours on a Qantas Airbus A330.

https://www.qantas.com.au

Qantas Takes Off on First Flight to Vanuatu

Qantas

The Flying Kangaroo has taken off from Brisbane to Port Vila, the harbourside capital of Vanuatu, for the first time in its history.

The inaugural service, QF159, was at full capacity today with holidaymakers and business travellers making the near 3-hour journey to one of the Pacific's hidden gems.

The new route offers three direct flights per week from the Sunshine State, and from 12 December 2024* Jetstar will also offer up to four weekly flights between Sydney and Port Vila. Across both airlines this will create more than 150,000 new seats each year between Australia and Vanuatu and making it easier than ever for Australians to experience the beaches, rich culture, and unique adventures that Vanuatu has to
offer.

The new flights will promote tourism between Australia and Vanuatu, strengthening economic ties and providing a boost to the local economy and tourism economy of the broader Pacific region, encouraging ongoing Australian visitation to the island capital.

Qantas

Port Vila is one of the Flying Kangaroo's four new international routes from the Queensland capital that it has launched within 12 months. Today's inaugural service follows the launch of Brisbane to Wellington and Honiara in October 2023 and the upcoming launch of Brisbane to Manila in late-October 2024, which will add more than 100,000 seats between Australia and the Philippines each year.

Qantas Group CEO International Cam Wallace says: “We are thrilled to expand our network with the introduction of direct flights between Brisbane and Port Vila. This new route will maintain connectivity between Australia and the South Pacific, opening new opportunities for leisure and business travel to the region.”

“With its lush landscapes and crystal blue waters, Vanuatu is a truly remarkable destination and we are proud to offer our customers more ways to experience its natural beauty."

Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan Graaff says: “This new Qantas route to Port Vila reinforces Brisbane Airport's role as Australia's Pacific hub.”

“The service offers Queenslanders an easy escape to paradise on our doorstep. It also provides the growing number of people from Vanuatu now living in Queensland, particularly those working in the agricultural sector, with direct access to home and family.”

Vanuatu Tourism Office CEO Adela Issachar Aru says: “The launch of Qantas' inaugural flight from Brisbane to Port Vila marks a significant milestone for Vanuatu's tourism industry and strengthens our connectivity with Australia.”

“Vanuatu offers an unforgettable escape, where travellers can immerse themselves in stunning landscapes, rich kastom, and adventure. We can't wait to welkam Qantas customers to our shores and share the beautiful experiences our 83 islands have to offer.”

The new service will be operated by a Qantas Boeing 737 aircraft on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. All Qantas fares include checked baggage, complimentary food and beverages, and seat selection. Qantas Frequent Flyers will also earn Qantas Points and Status Credits on eligible flights.

Fast Facts

• Route: Brisbane (BNE) to Port Vila (VLI)
• Return fares: Starting from $796 in economy and $3,506 in business class
• Flight numbers: QF159 Brisbane to Port Vila, QF160 Port Vila to Brisbane.
• Frequency: Three times weekly (Tuesday, Friday, Sunday)
• Duration: 3 hours
• Aircraft: Boeing 737-800, 12 business class and 162 economy seats

Qantas history of flying to Vanuatu

• Operated Empire Flying Boats as charters between Noumea and Port Vila in WW2 carrying troops
and freight including 1-tonne of gold bullion.
• In the 1960s when Qantas owned Fiji Airways, regular services were operated between Nandi and
Port Vila.

An Ancient Story Takes Flight: Wintjiri Wiṟu Behind the Scenes Documentary Premieres on Qantas Flights

An Ancient Story Takes Flight

A captivating new documentary on the making of Uluṟu’s cultural storytelling sensation, Wintjiri Wiṟu, will air on Qantas Inflight Entertainment from July 2024 as part of the airline’s special NAIDOC collection.

NAIDOC Week is celebrated in July each year to honour the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Titled ‘An Ancient Story Takes Flight’, the short film brings viewers behind the scenes of the award-winning show at Ayers Rock Resort, Uluru, which uses 1100 drones and cutting-edge laser, light, and sound technology to tell an ancient creation story of the Aṉangu – the Traditional Owners of Uluṟu.

With Uluṟu as its backdrop, the documentary offers a glimpse into how ancient tradition and modern technology fused together to bring the show to life, and how Aṉangu guided Ayers Rock Resort through the project — setting a new, world-leading standard in respecting Indigenous Intellectual Property protocols and Indigenous consultation.

Matt Cameron-Smith, CEO Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia, says: "Uluṟu and Qantas are Australian icons, so it feels like a natural fit for this special film to take flight and premiere on board Qantas.”

“We’re grateful to Aṉangu for allowing us to share their story, and for their guidance throughout Wintjiri Wiru’s phenomenal journey."

The only other place to view the film is the Arkani Theatre at Ayers Rock Resort, from NAIDOC Week onwards. The film screenings will join a suite of NAIDOC events held from 7 July to 14 July, including a Pop-Up Australian Native High Tea, themed dinners, Jarrah Boy beer tastings, markets and live bands.


For more information on Wintjiri Wiru, visit www.ayersrockresort.com.au

QANTAS TO SET UP CLIMATE FUND

The Qantas Group has announced it will establish a $400 million climate fund to provide direct investments in sustainability projects and technologies, as the airline works towards its emissions reduction targets.

The Qantas Climate Fund will be the largest aviation fund of its kind in the world.

It includes the partnership established last year between Qantas and Airbus to accelerate a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry in Australia and projects such as high-integrity carbon offsets, offshore SAF investments and operational efficiencies.

LEARN MORE

*Source: Destination NSW SYDNEY.COM | VISITNSW.COM | DESTINATIONNSW.COM.AU

ROUTE BOOSTS TO SYDNEY AIRPORT

Qantas recommenced direct services between San Francisco and Sydney on 22 May 2023, using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. 

Additionally, Singapore Airlines' twice-daily A380 operations to Sydney have returned for the first time since January 2020.

LEARN MORE

FOLLOW DESTINATION NSW ON LINKEDIN: Stay up to date with all the latest Destination NSW initiatives by following us on LinkedIn. Click here 

*Source: Destination NSW

QANTAS LAUNCHES NEW ROUTES AHEAD OF 2021 SKI SEASON

Qantas will make it easier for travellers to access the NSW snowfields this winter with the launch of three new seasonal routes.

From 1 July to 26 September 2021, Qantas will operate three new routes to Cooma and Albury:

• Sydney to Cooma – flights will operate three days per week.
• Brisbane to Cooma – flights will operate two days per week.
• Brisbane to Albury – flights will operate three days per week.

QantasLink CEO John Gissing said: “With international border closures meaning more Australians are planning their next holiday closer to home, we are creating more travel options where there is demand.

“We’re expecting these flights will be popular with skiers and snowboarders who might not have been able to hit the slopes through COVID last season in Australia or overseas.

“Our new direct flights to Cooma and Albury will mean ski enthusiasts can spend less time on the road and more time on the mountain.

“These new flights are also good news for local businesses, hospitality and tour operators in the region, helping drive tourism and reviving the industry that has been hurting from COVID-19.”

Fares for flights between Sydney and Cooma are available from $179 one-way and flights from Brisbane to Cooma and Albury are available from $239 one-way at qantas.com or through travel agents.

All flights will be operated by QantasLink’s turboprop Q400 aircraft, offering more than 15,000 seats on the routes through winter.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Destination NSW
https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/

BP and Quantas form strategic parthnership to advance net zero emissions

Qantas and BP announced a strategic partnership to further advance their shared net zero ambitions. Through the collaboration, the companies will work together on opportunities to reduce carbon emissions in the aviation sector and contribute to the development of a sustainable aviation fuel industry in Australia.

The two companies have agreed to explore ways in which bp’s global capabilities, skills and knowledge can support Qantas’ industry-leading sustainability and environmental strategy.

Jointly, the teams will explore opportunities and projects in areas including advanced sustainable fuels, advocacy for further decarbonisation in the aviation sector, renewable power solutions and generation, carbon management and emerging technology.

William Lin, BP’s executive vice president, regions, cities & solutions, said: “At bp, we're focusing on working with corporates in key industrial sectors that currently have significant carbon emissions to manage and need to decarbonise - sectors such as aviation.

“By bringing our complementary capabilities together, we can help each other, and our customers, move at a faster pace on the energy transition journey. We are delighted to have the opportunity to collaborate with Qantas on plans to reach net zero while continuing to deepen our existing relationship.”

Frédéric Baudry, president, BP Australia and SVP fuels & low carbon solutions, Asia Pacific said: “This is another move towards our ambition to be a net zero company by 2050 or sooner and help the world to get to net zero. We believe the planet needs everyone working together on this vital cause, and that supporting companies to transition to a more sustainable future means we can all get there faster.

“Forming strong strategic partnerships with leading companies like Qantas is an important way to achieve our shared goals and we are proud that bp is working to provide decarbonisation solutions for customers in Australia.”

Andrew Parker, Qantas Group Executive Government, Industry and Sustainability said: “While the COVID crisis has compelled us to make many changes across the business, one thing that hasn’t changed is our commitment to minimising the impact we have on the environment.

“Even though we have been flying a lot less, we’ve actually seen the same proportion of customers choosing to offset their domestic travel during the pandemic – showing that this issue remains top of mind for people.

“Airlines globally have a responsibility to cut emissions and combat climate change, particularly once travel demand starts to return. The Qantas Group has set some ambitious targets to be net carbon neutral by 2050 and while offsetting emissions is a big part of that in the next few years, longer term initiatives like building a sustainable aviation fuel sector in Australia, are key.

“This strategic partnership is designed to help build on this by leveraging the shared goals, expertise and reach of Qantas and bp to innovate together.”

BP and Qantas are working towards a low carbon future and both companies aim to increase collaboration in this area over time.

Find out more about bp in Australia.

Find out more about Qantas’ sustainability commitments and initiatives.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

QANTAS AND JAPAN AIRLINES JOIN FORCES TO SUPPORT TOURISM RECOVERY

Qantas and Japan Airlines (JAL) have announced plans for a new five-year agreement, which would bolster travel between Australia, New Zealand and Japan once international flying resumes.

The joint venture will deliver substantial benefits for customers and help to accelerate the recovery of the tourism industry by:

• expanding the codeshare relationship on flights between Australia and New Zealand and Japan, including 15 new codeshare destinations in Australia and New Zealand for JAL customers
• enhancing frequent flyer benefits for Qantas and JAL customers
• improving customer experience, including upgraded product and services inflight and on the ground
• delivering more choice for customers by developing new and improved travel products through coordinated pricing, schedules, sales and tourism marketing.

Additionally, Qantas and JAL have flagged the introduction of a new route between Australia and Japan and expect to announce details once regulatory approval is received, with a decision expected within the next six months.

Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said: “Around half a million people visited Australia from Japan in 2019. We want to see that tourism resume and grow even further by making it easier for Japanese travellers to visit.”

Image credit: Qantas

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Destination NSW
https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/

Qantas and Japan Airlines to form joint business to drive tourism discovery

Qantas and Japan Airlines (JAL) announced plans to form a new joint business, designed to better serve customers travelling between Australia, New Zealand and Japan and support the tourism industry’s recovery when international flying resumes.

The airlines have submitted an application for authorisation to regulators in Australia and New Zealand, with a decision expected within six months. Subject to this regulatory approval, it is anticipated that the joint business would commence operations around July 2021, when Qantas has said it expects its international network to gradually restart.

The coordination made possible through a joint business would enable Qantas and JAL to ramp up flights between Australia and Japan sooner than would otherwise be possible. The airlines have flagged an intention to launch a new route between Australia and Japan and expect to announce details once regulatory approval is received, borders open and demand returns.

Under the proposed five-year agreement, the airlines would deliver substantial benefits for customers and help accelerate the recovery of the tourism, trade and corporate travel links between Australia and Japan, including:

• An expanded codeshare relationship and optimised schedules on flights between Australia and New Zealand and Japan, opening up more connections to more destinations beyond the major city gateways. Qantas customers would have access to 14 new codeshare destinations in Japan and JAL customers would have access to 15 new codeshare destinations in Australia and New Zealand.
• Enhanced frequent flyer benefits for Qantas and JAL customers, including improved earn of Qantas points or JAL miles on routes under the joint business beyond what is possible today, as well as the ability to upgrade using points or miles on each other’s services.
• Improvements in the customer experience, including streamlined processes for disruption management and investments in product and service inflight and on the ground, designed to better serve the carriers’ joint customers.
• More premium travel opportunities, with Qantas able to offer customers a greater number of Business and Premium Economy seats on flights operated by JAL.
• Coordination of pricing, schedules, sales and tourism marketing to develop new and improved travel products, delivering more choice for customers.

Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said the joint business would play a vital role in reviving trade links with the world’s third largest economy and deliver significant benefits for customers travelling between Australia and Japan.

“Around half a million people visited Australia from Japan in 2019. We want to see that tourism resume and grow even further by making it easier for Japanese travellers to visit,” said Mr Joyce.

“The joint business means we’ll be able to build on our existing relationship with JAL through oneworld to offer more routes, better flight connections and more benefits to frequent flyers. It also helps us diversify our portfolio of joint businesses amongst Australia’s key trading partners.

“It will be a win for our customers, a win for trade and a win for the one million people who work in tourism across Australia.”

Japan Airlines President Yuji Akasaka added: “For over 50 years, JAL and Qantas have operated flights between Japan and Australia, demonstrating our mutual commitment to support and strengthen the diplomatic relationship built by the two countries.

“We believe that a joint business with Qantas will make for a quicker recovery between both countries with the ability to expand connectivity within each carrier’s respective domestic network, providing more customer choice and travel growth opportunities.”

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

QANTAS EXPANDS ITS REGIONAL NSW NETWORK

Qantas has confirmed a major expansion of its regional NSW network, with the addition of new services to Albury, Griffith, Merimbula, Newcastle and Wagga Wagga.

QantasLink CEO John Gissing said these new routes were a great opportunity for travellers to explore the best of regional Australia.

“As the national carrier, we have an important role to play in driving tourism and supporting the industry’s recovery,” Mr Gissing said.

“Before COVID, more than 11 million Australians travelled overseas each year, so these flights will help convert some of these international trips into domestic holidays instead.

“We know there is significant pent-up demand for travel. These new flights will help more Australians explore some of the incredible places in their own backyard and drive tourism, which is so vital to the local economies of regional areas.”

Mayor of Griffith John Dal Broi said: "Griffith City Council is thrilled to welcome Qantas to Griffith. Connectivity to Sydney is critical to our economy and lifestyle and Council is pleased residents and businesses will now have additional flight scheduling options.”

The new QantasLink services will be operated largely by the airline’s 50-seat Q300 turboprop aircraft, with upgraded cabin interiors.

The launch dates for the new services are:

• Sydney – Griffith, commencing 1 February 2021
• Melbourne – Newcastle, commencing 1 February 2021
• Melbourne – Merimbula, commencing 1 February 2021
• Melbourne – Wagga Wagga, commencing 28 March 2021
• Melbourne – Albury, commencing 28 March 2021

This week’s announcement follows Friday’s inaugural flight from Sydney to Merimbula, a new route announced by the airline earlier this year.

Officials from Bega Valley Shire Council welcomed the 38 passengers on QantasLink flight QF 2195 on arrival at the recently upgraded Merimbula Airport.

Bega Valley Shire Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick told media who covered the arrival that Bega Valley Shire Council was committed to preparing airport infrastructure for increased passenger and freight services in recent months.

“Increasing passenger services will deliver greater investment to the shire’s business community, which is well timed as it’s been a particularly difficult year for local small business owners,” Mayor Fitzpatrick said.

For more information about the new QantasLink routes and to book online, go to www.qantas.com.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Destination NSW
https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/

QANTAS JOINS FORCES WITH DESTINATION NSW TO CELEBRATE 100 YEARS IN STYLE

Qantas and Sydney were in the global spotlight this week with a spectacular low-level flyover and light show to commemorate the airline’s 100th birthday.

The stunt, a partnership between Destination NSW and Qantas, took the airline's 100th birthday message to the world by bringing together two world-renowned Australian icons – the Flying Kangaroo and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

After taking off at sunset from Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport, the Qantas B787 Dreamliner performed a mid-air salute to a former Qantas B747-400 at the HARS Aviation Museum at Illawarra Regional Airport and a nostalgic pass over Rose Bay, the base for Qantas’s Empire Flying Boats between 1938 and 1942. It then flew at a low altitude over Sydney Harbour Bridge spectacularly ‘blowing out’ 65-metre-high candles projected onto the iconic structure’s north and south pylons.

Guests on the Centenary Scenic Flight enjoyed a special pre-flight event in the Qantas Business Lounge with performances by actor/musician Hugh Sheridan and commemorative messages from NSW Minister for Tourism Stuart Ayres, Qantas CEO Alan Joyce and Destination NSW CEO Steve Cox.

Destination NSW helped curate the pre-flight festivities with a taste of Orange – one of Qantas’s new regional NSW destinations for 2020 – with a dramatic Printhie sparkling wine tower and a selection of wines from Orange wineries, Swinging Bridge and Philip Shaw.

Destination NSW also donated a Sydney Milestones Playcay package, helping to raise at auction more than $10,000 for Qantas Pathfinders and its charity partner, Royal Institute of Deaf and Blind Children. The package included two nights’ accommodation at the Four Seasons Sydney, Sydney Seaplanes’ fly’n’brunch experience, dinner at ARIA, tickets to Pippin and more.

Qantas – the world’s longest continuously operating airline – has been a stalwart of the NSW tourism industry and the Sydney business community throughout its 100-year history. For 80 of those years, the airline has called Sydney ‘home’, creating employment for thousands of NSW residents and boosting the visitor economy through the countless domestic and international arrivals each year.

Video and images of the Qantas Centenary Scenic Flight over the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the pre-flight celebrations, generated media coverage in China, India, across Asia and Australia-wide.

The stunt also received widespread social media coverage – including on Destination NSW's Sydney Instagram account, which this week hit a milestone of its own amassing one million followers.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Destination NSW
https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/

Sydney puts on a show for Qantas Centenary

Sydney has commemorated Qantas Airways’ 100-year anniversary by lighting up its iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge as a larger-than-life birthday cake complete with illuminated candles that were blown out by a Qantas 787 as it did a low level overfly at 1,500 feet.

More than 1,300 LED tubes, 126 LED fixtures and 38 searchlights lit up the full expanse of the world’s most famous bridge in the ultimate tribute from Sydney, the city which has been home to Qantas for more than eight decades. The projection of 60 historic images and two, 65-metre-high birthday candles onto the southern and northern pylons completed the transformation, creating a birthday moment like no other.

NSW Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres described the bridge tribute lighting extravaganza show culminating in the fly over as fitting recognition for one of the world’s longest continuously operating airlines.

“Sydney has benefited immensely from 100 successful years of business for Qantas – from bringing visitors to the state and boosting our visitor economy to providing local jobs,” Minister Ayres said.

“What better way to mark such an important milestone for Qantas than with a celebration in the city it has chosen as its headquarters for the last 82 years involving another much-loved Sydney icon, the Harbour Bridge.”

Almost 200 passengers, including 100 Qantas staff, were on board the 100-minute flight which was a special Centenary Scenic Flight to mark the airline’s 100th year. The spectacular candle-blowing lights off moment was a surprise for not just those on the ground, but also those on board the flight which also took in showcased Sydney Harbour, HARS Aviation Museum in Shellharbour and Rose Bay – where Qantas Flying Boats were used in the 1930s and ‘40s.

Qantas Group Chief Executive Officer, Alan Joyce said Qantas was honoured to receive such a special and spectacular Centenary birthday show from Sydney”.

“Qantas aircraft have been flying over Sydney Harbour Bridge for decades, so this was a spectacular way to mark our anniversary. It’s been a tough year for tourism but as more domestic borders open up, we’re ready to put more aircraft back in the air and bring people to see all that New South Wales has to offer,” he said. 

The activation, executed by Destination NSW, the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency, complements a new campaign of activity designed to support the recovery of Sydney hospitality and tourism businesses.

Destination NSW Chief Executive Officer, Steve Cox said the Qantas Centenary provided an opportunity to send out a message of hope, both to Sydney businesses and to residents of Sydney and New South Wales.

“Sydney continues to shine as brightly as ever, with tourism businesses steadily reopening and operating in a COVID-safe environment, putting the wellbeing of visitors first. This stunt was just the beginning of what will be a truly amazing line-up of events coming up across the city, and we are looking forward to welcoming visitors from across Australia to Sydney this summer,” said Mr Cox.

About the Qantas Centenary Flight

The QF100 flight will operate with net zero emissions – with 100% of emissions carbon offset. The offsets will be generated from high-quality carbon projects across north western NSW that establish permanent native forests on land that was cleared of vegetation.

These projects are not only good for the bush, but also provide a diversified form of income for landowners and help maintain strong regional economies. Income from carbon projects helps to support the local economy, providing jobs and security to towns and businesses often adversely affected by drought conditions. Read more about Qantas sustainability initiatives.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

QANTAS TO LAUNCH FLIGHTS TO MERIMBULA

Qantas has today announced it will launch flights from Sydney to Merimbula for the first time, bringing much needed competition to the route in time for the summer holidays.

From 18 December 2020, Qantas will operate four direct flights per week with its 50-seat Q300 turboprop aircraft, adding more than 400 seats on the route each week.*

QantasLink CEO John Gissing said the new Merimbula flights reinforced the national carrier’s commitment to helping the tourism industry recover from COVID-19.

“With border restrictions fuelling demand for intra-state travel, we see a big opportunity to bring more tourists to Merimbula,” Mr Gissing said.

“This will be the first time that the flying kangaroo has flown to the Sapphire Coast, which will mean more competitive fares on a route that has been a monopoly for decades."

Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres welcomed the announcement and encouraged Sydneysiders to take the opportunity to support the South Coast by visiting this summer.

“NSW’s far South Coast is known for its stunning beaches, as well as the fantastic bushwalks, delicious oysters and excellent fishing throughout the region,” Mr Ayres said.

“As we reconnect with and rediscover our own state, it’s exciting that new destinations are opening up to an even broader market such as this new Sydney to Merimbula route, making it incredibly easy for residents to travel to throughout NSW.”

To celebrate the new route, Qantas is launching a three-day sale with fares available from $149 one-way, unless sold out prior. Fares are available to book from today via qantas.com or through travel agents.

For more information, click here.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Destination NSW
Website: www.destinationnsw.com.au

Qantas to Give Final 747 Jumbo Jet a Farewell Fit for a Queen

Qantas has announced a program of events to farewell its last remaining Boeing 747 and provide Australians the opportunity to say goodbye to the much loved “Queen of the Skies” ahead of its retirement from the national carrier's fleet.

The airline will operate three one-hour “farewell jumbo joy flights” departing from Sydney, Canberra and Brisbane, in response to requests from employees and customers for one final chance to fly on the aircraft.

Qantas 747 Fleet Captain Owen Weaver said the 747 has a special place in the hearts of many Australians.

“The 747 has been a magnificent aircraft and it's fitting that we celebrate the end of five decades of history-making moments for the national carrier and aviation in Australia,” Captain Weaver said.

“Since the first 747 joined the Qantas fleet in 1971, these aircraft have operated numerous rescue flights to bring Australians home during times of crisis and provided a safe passage for many travellers taking their first international flight to or from Australia.

“These three flights will offer the final opportunity to fly on the Qantas 747 before it leaves, with some of our frequent flyers and aviation enthusiasts as fond of the aircraft as we are, having spent thousands of hours onboard over the years.

“There is an enormous amount of nostalgia and affection associated with our 747 and for those who miss out on a seat on the flight, they will at least be able to catch a glimpse of the aircraft as it takes to Australian skies for the last time.”

The flights will go on sale at midday on Wednesday 8 July on Qantas.com and will operate on Monday 13 July (Sydney), Wednesday 15 July (Brisbane) and Friday 17 July (Canberra). Economy fares cost $400 and a small number of Business Class tickets will be available for $747 with additional extras included.

Seats will be limited to maximise passenger comfort (in line with other previously operated joy flights).

The flights will be operated on a cost-recovery basis and profits will be donated to the HARS Aviation Museum at Albion Park (Wollongong) and the Qantas Founders Museum in Longreach to support their efforts to preserve and promote the 747 legacy for future generations. Both museums have a Qantas 747 on public display.

The final 747-400 in the fleet will depart Sydney at approximately 2pm on 22 July 2020 as flight QF7474.

Prior to its final departure on the 22nd July, Qantas will host a hangar farewell event for employees.

Note: The farewell jumbo jet joy flights will operate with Fly Well protocols in place.

Website: www.qantas.com.au

QANTAS AND JETSTAR INCREASE DOMESTIC FLYING AS RESTRICTIONS EASE

The Qantas Group has announced that Qantas and Jetstar will increase their domestic and regional flying for June and July as travel restrictions start to ease across the country. The additional services will see capacity increase from five per cent of pre-coronavirus levels, to 15 per cent by the end of June, equating to more than 300 additional return flights per week.

As travel restrictions start to ease across the country, Qantas and Jetstar will increase their domestic and regional flying for June and July.

The additional services will see capacity increase from 5 per cent of pre-Coronavirus levels, to 15 per cent by the end of June. This equates to more than 300 more return flights per week.

Additional flights will likely operate during July depending on travel demand and further relaxation of state borders, with the ability to increase to up to 40 per cent of the Group’s pre-crisis domestic capacity by the end of July.

Details of the additional flights include:

• More services on capital city routes particularly Melbourne-Sydney and a number of routes to-and-from Canberra.
• Increased intra-state flights for Western Australia, Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia. Broome, Cairns and Rockhampton to see a significant boost in weekly flights.
• Flights will resume on eight routes not currently being operated.
• Qantas to commence flights from Sydney to Byron Bay (Ballina), after the route launch was postponed due to the Coronavirus.

(A state by state breakdown of the Group’s domestic and regional schedule can be viewed here)

As part of the Group’s ‘Fly Well’ program, Qantas and Jetstar will have a range of measures in place from 12 June 2020 to ensure a safe environment at airports and onboard aircraft and to give customers extra peace of mind. This includes contactless check-in, enhanced cleaning, and masks and sanitising wipes provided to all customers.

As a result of the additional flying, both airlines will be standing up more employees to operate and support these services. However, given the Group network remains significantly below pre-Coronavirus levels, the majority of Qantas Group employees will remain stood down.

Comments from Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce:

“We know there is a lot of pent up demand for air travel and we are already seeing a big increase in customers booking and planning flights in the weeks and months ahead,” Mr Joyce said.

“We are gradually adding flights in June as demand levels increase, which will go from 5 per cent of pre-crisis levels currently to 15 per cent by late June. We can quickly ramp up flying in time for the July school holidays if border restrictions have eased more by then. Normally, we plan our capacity months in advance, but in the current climate we need to be flexible to respond to changing restrictions and demand levels.

“The one million people who work in tourism around Australia have been really hurting over the past few months. These additional flights are an important first step to help get more people out into communities that rely on tourism and bring a much-needed boost to local businesses.

“Customers will notice a number of differences when they fly, such as masks and sanitising wipes, and we’ll be sending out information before their flight so they know exactly what to expect and have some extra peace of mind.

“Importantly, the Australian Government’s medical experts have said the risk of contracting Coronavirus on an aircraft is low,” Mr Joyce added.

ADVICE FOR CUSTOMERS
To provide customers with greater flexibility and confidence when they book, all Qantas and Jetstar domestic customers can change the date of their flight once, without paying a change fee. Bookings need to be made before 30 June 2020, for travel between 12 June and 31 October 2020. Customers will have to cover any fare increase (if relevant) for the new booking.

Qantas Frequent Flyers using points to book a Classic Flight Reward seat on any Qantas or Jetstar flight can change the date or cancel their booking, free of charge until 31 October 2020. Classic Reward seats are available to book across Australia, including during school holiday periods.

If a flight is cancelled by us, customers will be rebooked on the next available flight at no additional cost. Alternatively, customers can choose a flight credit or a refund. For more information visit Qantas and Jetstar websites.

All customers are encouraged to download the Australian Government’s COVIDSafe app as part of improving the ability of health authorities to contain the spread of Coronavirus. In-line with public health advice, anyone with cold and flu like symptoms should stay at home.

New flights from United States to Brisbane a boon for state's tourism industry

Qantas will start non-stop flights from Brisbane to Chicago and San Francisco from April next year under a deal secured by the Palaszczuk Government.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the flights operating four times a week to Chicago and three times a week to San Francisco would pump more than $150 million into the Queensland economy over the next three years.

“As the world’s largest economy, the United States offers enormous potential for inbound tourism to Queensland,” the Premier said.

“The launch of flights to San Francisco, and for the first time in the Qantas network Chicago, represents a great opportunity for Queensland, one that is forecast to support more than 1,700 jobs over the next three years.

“As Minister for Trade I also see this as a great opportunity for Queensland exporters.

“The recent opening of our Trade and Investment Queensland office in San Francisco is testament to how important the culture and companies of Silicon Valley and northern California are for Queensland export opportunities.

“Easier access to the Midwest and East Coast will also make life more efficient for businesses operating in our growing biotech and life sciences sector.”

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said the new services would bring an additional 257,712 inbounds seats to Brisbane over three years.

“North America has been identified as a market for strong tourism growth in the coming years, so this deal shows how serious we are about attracting new airline routes into Queensland,” Minister Jones said.

“In the past 12 months, expenditure by US visitors grew by 15 per cent to a record $415 million and these new services will help that grow by adding capacity and giving a whole new region of the US direct access to Queensland.

“This announcement was only made possible because of the work the Palaszczuk Government did two years ago to ensure Brisbane became home for Qantas’ four new Boeing 787 Dreamliners.

“Having them based in Brisbane has opened up direct flights between the US and Brisbane and now the Queensland Government’s Attracting Aviation Investment Fund has allowed us to secure these great new services, which will be a boon for the state’s tourism industry.”

The services are supported by the Queensland Government via Tourism and Events Queensland through the Attracting Aviation Investment Fund in partnership with Brisbane Airport Corporation, Tourism Australia and Brisbane City Council via Brisbane Marketing.

Federal Minister for Tourism Simon Birmingham said these two new services reinforced the importance of North America as one of Australia’s largest and most important inbound markets.

“The US market offers significant potential for our tourism industry and it’s a market that the Federal government has deliberately focused on through targeted marketing activities,” Minister Birmingham said.

“We are starting to see some very encouraging results off the back of Tourism Australia’s recent Dundee campaign, with the most recent tourism data showing strong uplifts in arrivals, spend and visa applications.

“That means more tourism dollars into our economy with more cash splashed in our restaurants, shops and hotels, and in turn helping to create more jobs for Australians.

“It is important that we continue to build upon this momentum and securing these two new services will undoubtedly help us do that. There’s never been a better time for Americans to travel Down Under with awareness and interest in Australia high and air fares extremely competitive.”

Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said the launch of 787 flights from Brisbane to Chicago and San Francisco would be a win for customers and tourism.

“This is fantastic news for Queensland. It demonstrates the confidence that we have in the local tourism industry and our commitment to the Sunshine State,” Mr Joyce said.

“This will give Qantas and American Airlines customers unprecedented access. These flights will make it one stop from Chicago to Hamilton Island or San Francisco to Townsville.

“These new services will connect both Australian business travellers and holidaymakers with key centres of commerce, industry and culture in the United States.

“I’d like to acknowledge the support of the Queensland Government for helping to make these new Dreamliner routes a step closer to reality, and we will work together on joint marketing initiatives to showcase the State and boost tourism.”

Brisbane Airport Corporation CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff said the new routes offered untapped potential for growth in tourism, trade, investment, education and business sectors that would ripple throughout the city and the entire state of Queensland.

“Brisbane Airport is excited to be partnering with Qantas and key Government stakeholders to bring these new direct links to Chicago and San Francisco to fruition,” he said.

“Relative to the size of the market and overall demand, Queensland has been under-served from the USA, and these new services will go some way to addressing pent up demand.

“Direct flights into Chicago, the heart of mid-west USA, and San Francisco the cultural, commercial, and financial centre of Northern California, are a game changer for Brisbane and Queensland, positioning Brisbane as the best gateway to and from North America.”

“These network connections will strengthen ties, investment and education opportunities with US companies and universities in areas such as digital technology, life sciences, biotechnology and renewables.”

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said securing the new Qantas Dreamliner services from San Francisco and Chicago would boost tourism and business opportunities for the city.

“The US is Brisbane’s fourth largest international visitor market and the new services will help us grow tourism numbers, supporting our small businesses and jobs across our accommodation, retail, hospitality and service sectors,” Cr Schrinner said.

“These new flights will enable us to attract more business events and their delegates from the US while directly linking our local start-ups and businesses with major innovation, technology, investment and corporate hubs that have growing links to Brisbane.”

Tourism and Events Queensland
www.teq.queensland.com