Qantas launches range of leisure wear to combat pandemic crisis

COVID’s devastating impact on airlines prompts Qantas to branch out into designer leisure wear, with prices starting at $150.

Prices for the Qantas leisurewear start at $150 for a T-shirt. Picture: Supplied

The ongoing quest by airlines to find alternative revenue sources to flying in the devastating COVID crisis, has resulted in Qantas launching a line of leisure wear.

Designed by Martin Grant, the hoodies, sweaters, T-shirts and tote bags, feature the Qantas flying kangaroo logo in various vintages to mark the airline’s centenary year.

Priced from $150 for a T-shirt to $450 for a cashmere sweater, Qantas Loyalty CEO Olivia Wirth predicted the merchandise would be in huge demand from frequent flyers.

“Qantas Frequent Flyers have a great fondness for our brand and heritage,” said Ms Wirth.

“Having our iconic logos appear in such a beautifully designed collection will make this range much sought after for people with a passion for both aviation and fashion.”

A sweater in the range by Martin Grant.

Mr Grant’s designs are already in extensive use by Qantas, in the form of cabin crew, pilots and ground handling staff uniforms and first class pyjamas and amenity kits.

He said the collection was all about “classic shapes, comfortable styles and materials that are kind on the environment”.

“The hero of the designs are the iconic logos that evoke so many fond memories for Australians,” said Mr Grant.

“The Qantas brand is embedded in the history of our country. I wanted this collection to be a nod to the past but also be a treasured piece for the future.”

It’s the latest in a series of innovations by Qantas to generate alternative sources of revenue as the COVID crisis and travel restrictions savage income from flying.

To date, the airline has staged a number of scenic flights in its retiring 747s and more recently a Boeing 787, and has also sold fully stocked bar carts and “care kits” featuring pyjamas and snacks.

Other airlines are also exploring new avenues, with Singapore Airlines quickly selling out “dining experiences” on its A380s parked at Changi Airport.

In response to demand another four dates for lunch and dinner have been announced by the carrier which is also doing “home delivery” first class dinners for Singaporeans.

“We are grateful for the extremely strong support from our customers, and we look forward to welcoming them to Restaurant A380 @Changi,” said Singapore Airlines commercial vice-president Lee Lik Hsin.

“Given the demand, we are pleased to open up additional seatings to accommodate those who are interested in this unique dining experience.”

AirAsia has launched a whole digital platform CEO Tony Fernandes has likened to Amazon.com, selling everything from fresh groceries and entertainment to healthcare and travel.

The AirAsia superapp also featured a messaging service.