Qantas will resume offering its First Class services both on the ground and in the air by the end of March, following increased demand for international flights and the reactivation of the Airbus A380 fleet.
A fourth of the carrier’s A380s, named «Reginald Ansett» and registered (VH-OQH), has been released from storage at Victorville to return to passenger service after being parked since March 2020.
The Australian flag carrier took advantage of the superjumbo’s inactivity to refurbish the cabin of these aircraft with new Business Class products. These ones count with 70 Suites, while the airline also expanded Premium Economy section with 60 seats, plus an upgrade to First Class and Economy Class.
The upper deck lounge was completely renovated, with cabin-style seating for 10 passengers, a self-service bar, and the option to order drinks and snacks.
Business Lounges
From March 27, Qantas will reopen its Business Lounges in Sydney (SYD) and Melbourne (MEL). Meanwhile, the First Lounges in Australia will revert to being exclusive to First Class passengers. Note that during the pandemic they operated as a First/Business hybrid.
First Lounge users will be able to enjoy an a la carte menu prepared by Neil Perry. At the same time, premium Australian champagnes and wines and a selection of seasonal cocktails will be offered.
The spa will also reopen to offer customized pre-flight treatments such as hot stone massages and mini facials using LaGaia products.
«We know our customers have missed the Qantas A380 travel experience as much as our team has missed being able to offer them. So it’s fantastic that we’ll be flying our full-service premium again on these newly refurbished aircraft,» said Stephanie Tully, Qantas customer service director.
First Check-in suite
Qantas will also reopen its First Check-in suite at Sydney International Airport (SYD) so that First Class customers and high-yield frequent flyers can have personalized and simplified check-in.
The Qantas A380 currently operates flights from Sydney (SYD) to Los Angeles (LAX) three times a week. As of June, the airline will return to the UK with the flagship service between Sydney (SYD) and London Heathrow (LHR) via Singapore (SIN).
