Qantas Launches First-Ever Airbus A380 Flight Between Australia and Africa

Copyright © AirTeamImages.com

On September 29th, 2024, Qantas made history with the launch of its inaugural Airbus A380 flight (QF63) between Sydney and Johannesburg, marking the first time the Superjumbo (VH-OQH at the time) operated between Australia and Africa. The new route operated up to six times per week, adding 130,000 seats annually and reintroducing First Class and an expanded Premium Economy offering. The A380 also featured an upper deck lounge for First and Business passengers.

In addition to the capacity boost, Qantas announced a codeshare partnership with Johannesburg-based Airlink, offering seamless connections to nine South African destinations, including Cape Town and Durban, with plans to expand further into southern Africa.

Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace highlighted the airline’s long history of flying to South Africa. He emphasised the importance of the additional capacity and enhanced connectivity for tourism, business, and trade between the two continents. Fares for the new flights and codeshare connections were available for booking, with travel beginning in late October 2024.