The recovery of the Australian market has finally arrived: Qantas has decided to resume and improve its fleet renewal plans. As mentioned above, it has confirmed the purchase of 12 Airbus A350-1000s for the most complex technical and human challenge in contemporary aviation.
How does Qantas plan to make a 20-hour non-stop scheduled flight tolerable from service? Simple: by betting on a passenger for whom ticket price is not a determining factor.
The company will offer four classes, with 238 passengers in total and 40 percent of the offer dedicated to premium seats. In addition, it will create a wellbeing zone where passengers will be able to stretch their legs and do some exercises.
«The A350 and Project Sunrise will make any city a flight away from Australia.» Says Alan Joyce, CEO of Qantas. «It is the final frontier and the ultimate solution to the tyranny of distance.»
A321XLR and A220-300: true gamechangers
But it’s not the only frontier to be crossed. The carrier, in addition to confirming 20 A321XLRs, announced it will convert 20 A320neo orders from JetStar to the Xtra Long Range and 20 A220-300s, which will replace the Boeing 737s and 717s it currently operates.
The A321XLR will significantly change Qantas’ network, allowing it to go 3,000 kilometers farther than with the 737s. Add 15% more passengers and 17% less fuel consumption to the equation. By the end of 2024, when you will receive your first one, you will see a real gamechanger.
The A220-300 annihilates the comparison with the 717: almost a third less consumption per flight. And 25% more seats to sell. And twice the range. The first A220 is scheduled for delivery in late 2023.
«The A320 [family] and A220 will become the backbone of our domestic fleet for the next 20 years, helping to keep this country moving. Their range and economics will enable new direct routes, including improved service to regional cities.»
Qantas is consolidating a fleet that is committed to Airbus products: 299 narrow-body aircraft and 12 A350-1000s, to be received over 10 years. One of the world’s largest airlines is gradually leaving the Boeing world. Considering the current situation of both manufacturers, this is not surprising.
