Qantas is ramping up its international operations with the addition of 220,000 seats over the next 12 months, new routes, and the introduction of upgraded aircraft. The Australian carrier is responding to growing demand in key Asia Pacific and US markets, marking a significant expansion of its network.
From February 2025, Qantas will add 220,000 seats across its international network by leveraging new aircraft and route modifications. This includes the launch of a new Brisbane–Palau route, the return of two Airbus A380s from maintenance, and the arrival of next-generation A220 aircraft for QantasLink.
More Seats to the United States
Qantas is set to increase its capacity to the United States by 13%, with an additional 30% of premium seating available on long-haul flights. This will be supported by the return of more A380 aircraft from August 2025, delivering more comfort and options for passengers travelling between Australia and the US. Additionally, the airline’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner will return to service on the Brisbane–Los Angeles and Brisbane–Auckland routes, offering a broader range of seating options, including Premium Economy.
Brisbane to Palau Route
In a major new development, Qantas will introduce a weekly Brisbane–Palau service, marking the airline’s first connection to the Pacific island. Operated by 737 aircraft, this route, known as the ‘Palau Paradise Express’, will enhance tourism and trade links between Australia and Palau. Famous for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, Palau is an exciting addition to Qantas’s growing leisure network. The service is part of a government contract aimed at strengthening regional connectivity, with flights expected to begin soon and tickets going on sale within weeks.
Boost for Darwin-Singapore Route
QantasLink’s new A220 aircraft will debut on the international network with the launch of the Darwin–Singapore route in March 2025. Originally scheduled to operate with the smaller Embraer E190, the 137-seat A220 will fly five times per week, adding 70,000 seats annually on this important route. The A220 is part of Qantas’s broader fleet renewal, replacing the aging Boeing 717s and offering extended range and enhanced comfort on both domestic and short-haul international routes.
Changes to Sydney-Seoul Flights
In a strategic shift, Qantas will end its Sydney–Seoul service in mid-June 2025, while its low-cost subsidiary Jetstar will increase flights on the same route from four times weekly to daily. This change will result in an overall increase in seat availability and cater to the growing leisure demand between the two cities.