Qantas Launches New A380 Route and Codeshare to Africa

Yesterday marked a historic moment for Qantas, as the airline’s inaugural Airbus A380 flight departed for Johannesburg, it is the first time the carrier has flown the Superjumbo to Africa. This new service represents a significant boost in capacity between Australia and South Africa, with key enhancements to the passenger experience.

Key Highlights:

• The A380 will operate up to six times per week, adding an extra 130,000 seats annually between Australia and Africa.
• With a total capacity of 485 passengers, the A380 introduces First Class back to the route for the first time since 2018.
• First Class offers 14 individual suites in a 1-1-1 configuration, with each suite converting into a 212 cm bed.
• Premium Economy seating has also more than doubled, offering more choices for travellers.
• The aircraft features an upper deck lounge for First and Business Class passengers, complete with booth seating for 10 people, a self-service bar, and signature drinks and snacks.

Qantas Future Expansions and Codeshare Partnership

In addition to the A380 service, Qantas plans to relaunch direct flights from Perth to Johannesburg by mid-2025, subject to border approvals.

To further expand its reach, Qantas has announced a new codeshare agreement with Johannesburg-based Airlink. This partnership will offer seamless connectivity between Qantas flights and nine key South African destinations, such as Cape Town, Durban, and Hoedspruit. The airline also intends to add more southern African destinations through Airlink, pending regulatory approval.

Qantas Frequent Flyers will benefit from earning Qantas Points and Status Credits on Airlink flights, providing even more incentives to fly.

Fast Facts:

• Qantas’ A380 service increases their capacity between Australia and South Africa to over 280,000 seats annually.
• This is the only A380 flight that crosses the Southern Indian Ocean.
• Flight duration: Sydney to Johannesburg – 14 hours 40 minutes; Johannesburg to Sydney – 11 hours 55 minutes.
• Qantas operates eight A380s, with two more to return to service within 18 months.
• In addition to Johannesburg, Qantas also flies A380s to Los Angeles, Singapore, and London.

Qantas Airlink Partnership Overview:

• Airlink is a full-service regional airline established in 1992, operating a fleet of Embraer jets.
• The airline serves over 45 destinations across Africa, with hubs in Johannesburg and Cape Town.
• New Qantas codeshare destinations include Bloemfontein, Cape Town, Durban, Hoedspruit, and more.

Fares for the new A380 flights and Airlink connections are available now, with travel beginning in late October 2024. All international fares with Qantas include checked baggage, meals, and inflight entertainment, ensuring a premium experience for every traveller.

To see the best fare prices for Qantas Airways to destination throughout the globe visit the Qantas Fares page or call and speak with one of our First Class travel experts.