Qantas Announces fresh global way to Compete with Air NZ

dailyblitz.de 4 hours ago

SYDNEY- Australian flag carrier, Qantas Airways (QF), has introduced a seasonal international route from Adelaide (ADL) to Auckland (AKL), commencing October 31, 2025, and operating until May 3, 2026.

The service, flown on a Boeing 737-800, will run four times weekly on Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays as flight QF175, with a flight duration of approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes.

This marks Qantas’ first non-stop international service from Adelaide since 2013, directly challenging Air New Zealand (NZ), the dominant carrier on trans-Tasman routes.

Qantas Adds Adelaide to Auckland Flights

The route adds over 30,000 seats between the two cities, fostering increased tourism and business travel. Launch fares start at $699 AUD for economy return, covering travel periods from October 31 to December 12, 2025, and January 19 to March 28, 2026.

Bookings are available via Qantas’ website. The service also facilitates one-stop connections to New York (JFK) through Qantas’ QF3 flight from Auckland, strengthening South Australia’s links to North America and supporting AUKUS-related economic ties, as noted by South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas.

Qantas’ strategic move aligns with its broader network expansion, which now spans over 100 destinations globally.

By re-entering the Adelaide international market, Qantas aims to capture a share of the growing New Zealand visitor market, which saw 48,000 visitors to South Australia in 2024, contributing to a 29% increase in tourism expenditure.

The route enhances Adelaide’s appeal as a gateway for New Zealanders seeking South Australia’s renowned food, wine, and festivals, as highlighted by Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison.

Adelaide Domestic Business Lounge Unveiled

Concurrent with the route announcement, Qantas opened its first Domestic Business Lounge at Adelaide Airport (ADL), a 1,016-square-meter facility accommodating up to 190 passengers.

Available from mid-2025, the lounge features a Market Kitchen with live cooking stations, drawing inspiration from the Adelaide Central Market.

Dishes are crafted by Qantas’ Creative Director of Food, Beverage, and Service, Neil Perry, with lighter options by South Australian culinary icon Maggie Beer.

Designed by Architectus, the lounge reflects South Australia’s identity, incorporating elements inspired by the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, Kangaroo Island’s Flinders Chase National Park, and the Adelaide Central Market.

Locally sourced furniture, natural materials, and a commissioned blown glass light installation from the JamFactory enhance the ambiance. Responding to customer feedback, 80% of seats offer access to power stations, including USB-A/C ports and wireless charging mats, ensuring convenience for travelers.

The lounge completes Qantas’ Adelaide Lounge precinct, alongside the revitalized Qantas Club and Chairman’s Lounge. This investment underscores Qantas’ commitment to enhancing passenger experiences and supporting Adelaide Airport’s goal to showcase South Australian produce, as emphasized by Managing Director Brenton Cox.

Economic and Tourism Impacts

The new route and lounge are poised to deliver significant economic benefits for South Australia. The direct Auckland service strengthens ties with New Zealand, South Australia’s equal second-largest tourism market, alongside China, behind only the UK.

The increased capacity is expected to drive visitor numbers and expenditure, building on the 48,000 New Zealand visitors in 2024. This aligns with South Australia’s strategy to grow its visitor economy, as articulated by Minister Bettison.

Adelaide Airport’s role as a hub is further solidified, with Qantas operating nearly 280 weekly services to 14 domestic destinations. The international route enhances the airport’s connectivity, offering New Zealanders direct access to South Australia’s attractions and facilitating onward travel to North America. The lounge’s focus on local produce and design elevates Adelaide’s reputation as a premium travel destination.

Qantas’ Strategic Vision

Qantas Group CEO International Cam Wallace described the dual announcements as milestones for both the airline and South Australia. The route and lounge reflect Qantas’ focus on expanding its international network while enhancing customer experiences through premium offerings.

The airline’s investment in Adelaide aligns with its broader fleet renewal and network growth, including new routes from Perth to Auckland and Johannesburg starting December 2025.

By competing with Air New Zealand on the Adelaide-Auckland route, Qantas leverages its brand strength and domestic network to attract both leisure and business travelers.

The seasonal nature of the service allows flexibility to assess demand, with potential for future expansion using aircraft like the Airbus A321 XLR, as hinted by Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson in discussions about Adelaide’s international potential.

Flight and Lounge Launch Details

Route: Adelaide (ADL) to Auckland (AKL)
Start Date: October 31, 2025
Seasonal Service: Ends May 3, 2026
Frequency: 4x weekly (Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun)
Aircraft: Boeing 737-800
Flight Duration: ~4h 15m
Launch Fare: AUD $699 economy return (select dates)
Qantas Lounge: Opens mid-2025, 1,016 sqm, 190-capacity, South Australia-themed design