Travellers are making history today as Qantas launches its inaugural Airbus A380 flight from Johannesburg to Sydney. This marks the first time the Australian national carrier has operated its Superjumbo from Africa, significantly boosting capacity on the route. The A380 will fly up to six times a week, offering an additional 130,000 seats annually between South Africa and Australia.
The Qantas A380 has a total capacity of 485 passengers across four cabin classes, including the reintroduction of First Class for the first time since 2018. The First Class cabin features 14 individual suites arranged in a 1-1-1 layout, with each suite converting into a 212-centimeter bed. In addition, the number of Premium Economy seats on this route will more than double. First and Business Class passengers can also enjoy the upper deck lounge, which offers booth seating for 10 people, a self-service bar, and signature drinks and snacks.
Qantas has a long history with South Africa, dating back to 1948 when it first touched down in Johannesburg. The airline has since operated a variety of aircraft, including Constellations, Electras, 707s, and 747s. Today, the A380 makes history as the first Superjumbo to fly across the southern Indian Ocean.
The airline plans to further expand its presence in the region by relaunching flights from Johannesburg to Perth in mid-2025, subject to Western Australia’s border agency requirements.
Qantas and Airlink Codeshare Partnership
The increase in capacity comes alongside a new codeshare partnership between Qantas and South African carrier Airlink. This partnership will provide seamless connectivity between Qantas flights to Johannesburg and nine domestic destinations in South Africa. Qantas also plans to expand this partnership to include additional destinations across southern Africa, pending regulatory approval.
“We are seeing strong demand for our Sydney services, and by upgrading to the Superjumbo, we will nearly double capacity during peak periods, adding over 130,000 seats per year between the continents,” said Cam Wallace, Qantas International CEO. “The A380 is a favourite among our frequent flyers, and it will be great to see the Flying Kangaroo in the land of the springbok. This extra capacity will significantly expand options for Qantas customers heading to Australia, strengthening connections between family and friends, business and trade, and giving a big boost to the South African tourism industry.”
Key Facts and Figures
- The inaugural A380 flights are fully booked in both directions.
- Qantas will now operate over 280,000 seats annually between South Africa and Australia.
- Return fares from Johannesburg to Sydney start at R19,560.
- The A380 flights are timed to connect with Qantas’ New Zealand services.
- This is the world’s only A380 flight crossing the southern Indian Ocean, with potential views of Antarctica on clear days.
- Flight time from Johannesburg to Sydney is 11 hours and 55 minutes, while the return leg takes 14 hours and 40 minutes.
Passengers can book tickets now on qantas.com or through travel agents, with all international fares including checked baggage, food, beverages, and in-flight entertainment.
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