Qantas has confirmed its multi-billion-dollar order for new aircraft, which will include 12 Airbus A350s capable of flying long-haul from Australia to any other city, including New York and London, expected to take off from Sydney in late 2025. 

The major fleet decisions are a part of the Qantas Group’s overhaul of its international and domestic networks over the next decade and beyond.

The domestic feel renewal will commence in late 2023, with an order for 40 A321XLRs and A220 aircraft, as its Boeing 737s and 717s are gradually retired. This order includes purchase right options for another 94 aircraft for delivery through to at least 2034.

“New types of aircraft make new things possible. That’s what makes this announcement so significant for the national carrier and for a country like Australia where air travel is crucial,” Qantas Group chief executive officer Alan Joyce said.

All of these next generation aircraft – through their lower emissions, longer range, less noise and better economics – will improve passenger travel around Australia and overseas, with each one featuring market-leading passenger comfort in each travel class.

“The A320s and A220s will become the backbone of our domestic fleet for the next 20 years, helping to keep this country moving. Their range and economics will make new direct routes possible, including serving regional cities better,” Joyce said.

“These newer aircraft and engines will reduce emissions by at least 15 per cent if running on fossil fuels, and significantly better when run on Sustainable Aviation Fuel. This order brings us closer to our commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2050.”

Travellers can look forward to more direct routes and therefore less total travel time, higher levels of cabin comfort, and more choice of flights at different times of day, particularly on domestic and regional routes.

These decisions will also create more than 1,000 jobs as well as many career progression opportunities at the national carrier.