Qantas chief executive Vanessa Hudson says a delay in upgrading the airline’s fleet has meant it is now taking delivery of significantly more hi-tech aircraft that will underpin its strong profit growth.

Hudson took over the national carrier in September 2023 after the abrupt resignation of Alan Joyce. She took the top job – having been Qantas’ chief financial officer – at a time that the airline was facing significant criticism for its poor service and record-high airfares after the COVID-19 pandemic.