Qantas launches A380 on world’s longest route

Thursday, 2 October 2014 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Qantas has launched the world’s largest passenger aircraft on the world’s longest route, with A380 flights between Sydney and Dallas/Fort Worth.

The Australian flag carrier has a history of long distance flying, including numerous records. Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said the route included almost 16 hours of flying time and the A380 would provide greater comfort, more seats and better fuel efficiency than the B747, which is currently used. “We know our customers will value the comfort of the A380 on this route,” he said. “Not only will the A380 increase seats on the route by more than 10% each week, it will also provide us with greater fuel efficiency and the range to operate the return service direct back to Sydney. Qantas recently announced increased services to the US, and will now offer customers 41 services per week to North America. About half of these services are operated by A380 aircraft and the other half by B747s with A380-style interiors. Sydney-Dallas/Fort Worth is the only direct flight from Australia to inland United States. Qantas became Dubai-based Emirates’ only partner in March last year in a significant agreement that saw the Australian airline relocate its Singapore hub to Dubai. Qantas has been under pressure to cut costs in its international arm after posting a record $2.8 b annual lost in the year to 30 June.