Qantas unveils plan for passenger comfort on ultra long flights

Qantas unveils plans for passenger comfort on ultra long flights

Words: Robyn Ironside Producer: Louise Starkey

From more leg room for economy passengers to an exercise area and a wardrobe in first class suites, Qantas has revealed its plans for passenger comfort when it starts flying nonstop from Sydney to London and New York in late 2025. Video: YouTube | Australian Aviation

The A350-1000 aircraft it will use on the routes will have 238 seats, the lowest number of any airline operating that aircraft, to increase comfort levels on flights of more than 19 or 20 hours duration. Video: YouTube | Australian Aviation

Qatar Airways seats 327 passengers in its A350-1000s and Cathay Pacific 334.

On the Qantas nonstop flight, 140 seats will be economy — each having a seat pitch of 33 inches, two more than the Boeing 787-9s Qantas uses on Perth-London flights.

Six private first class suites will have their own wardrobe and bed, and a "wellness zone" will allow passengers to stretch and exercise during the long trips.

Alan Joyce Qantas CEO

Although a premium price would apply for passengers in the front of the plane, economy fares are expected to be similar to those currently charged for flights to London and New York.

In addition to the double aisle A350-1000s, Qantas has ordered 40 single aisle aircraft made up of A320neos and A220s with the option of a further 94 — replacing the ageing Boeing 737-800s and 717s in the Qantas domestic fleet over the next 10 years.