Qantas Expands Perth Operations for Global Growth
Qantas is set to enhance its operations at Perth International Airport (PER) in Western Australia, aiming to develop the facility into its second most significant international and cargo hub in Australia. The announcement came from Cam Wallace, Head of International and Cargo at Qantas, during the CAPA Airline Leader Summit Australia Pacific 2024 held in Brisbane from September 11 to 13.
Wallace outlined Qantas’s strategic objectives, which include stabilizing airfares in the Australian market, renewing its fleet, and advancing Project Sunrise. He emphasized that Perth is central to these plans, reflecting the airline’s commitment to expanding its presence in Western Australia. Wallace also highlighted that Qantas’s international capacity has surpassed pre-COVID levels, signaling a full recovery and a positive outlook for the future.
However, Wallace acknowledged the challenges faced over the past year, including delays, cancellations, and disruptions that impacted customer trust. Rebuilding consumer confidence and meeting evolving customer needs remain priorities for Qantas. “Improving on-time performance and ensuring daily service quality are crucial,” Wallace stated. “We’re pleased with our progress but recognize the ongoing need to adapt to customer expectations.”
With the initial surge in post-COVID travel demand waning, Qantas is focusing on organic growth driven by strategic marketing campaigns. The airline is seeing a rise in demand for premium cabins, especially on long-haul routes. Recently, Qantas resumed direct flights to Paris-CDG after a nearly 20-year hiatus, further demonstrating its commitment to expanding its global network.
In terms of fleet development, Wallace noted that while delivery delays for new aircraft have impacted expansion plans, Qantas is managing these challenges effectively. The airline has over 200 new aircraft on order, including 25 Airbus A321XLRs, 24 A350-1000s, and an Airbus A220-300 for regional operations. This represents the start of Qantas’s largest fleet modernization plan to date. Additionally, Qantas has returned eight Airbus A380 superjumbos to service, with plans to reintegrate the final two over the next 18 months. These aircraft are crucial for operations at constrained airports like Sydney, Los Angeles, and London-Heathrow.
The introduction of new aircraft will allow Qantas to explore new markets and routes not feasible with its current fleet. Wallace highlighted Perth’s strategic location and the potential for expanding international routes, with plans for direct flights to Auckland and destinations in India. The airline has also announced new direct flights from Brisbane to Bangkok.
Wallace expressed confidence in Perth’s future role, stating, “Over time, Perth will become our second-largest international destination. We see tremendous potential for both Qantas and Jetstar as a gateway to Australia, serving markets in Africa, Europe, and Asia.”
This strategic expansion at Perth Airport underscores Qantas’s commitment to strengthening its international network and cargo operations while supporting the growth of local and regional economies.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, Qantas