Australians hoping to skip the stopover on the way to Europe are looking at paying some $2,270 for a return Economy fare on Qantas’ highly anticipated direct Perth-London service.
As expected, the 18-hour non-stop flights to Europe went on sale today (shortly after ANZAC Day), 11 months ahead of the official launch on 24 March, The West Australian reported.
QF9 from Perth to Heathrow will depart daily at 6.50pm to arrive in London at 5.10am. The return service, QF10 will take off at 1.30pm to touch down at 1.15pm in Australia.
Fares for the Flying Kangaroo’s new route start from around $2,270 for a return Economy ticket, which will give travellers access to “high level of comfort”.
Those eyeing the “new industry standard” Premium Economy seats are looking at paying almost double the cost of Economy with fares at around $4,250 return. This extra cost will see them seated in a 2-3-2 configuration and receive around 5cm extra wiggle room (if they’re seated in the middle seat).
And then there’s Business Class, with seats going for some $9,725 return. It may sound steep, but with the nickname ‘mini First Class’ the fully flat beds, direct aisle access and service may be worth every dollar.
Qantas’ Chief Executive Alan Joyce said the new service would bring more convenience in travel to Europe, while the specially-designed Dreamliner will be a “game changer”.
“The Kangaroo Route has kept changing with new technology. It used to take four days and seven stops but now we’re able to link Australia and UK in a single hop. It’s a level of convenience Australians have never had before.”
Alan Joyce, Qantas Chief Executive
“We’re conscious that this is a long flight, but not much longer than our Sydney to Dallas service. It’s the kind of route that the Dreamliner was created for, because of its built-in features to reduce jetlag and improve the overall travel experience.
“We’ve added a very high level of comfort in each of the cabins and a lower seat count than most of our competitors. And we’re making tweaks to our in-flight service designed to help customers enjoy the journey more.”
Joyce continued, hinting to The West Australian that the airline is looking at expanding its non-stop Europe offerings and is considering cities such as Berlin, Rome and Paris.