First pictures as refreshed Qantas A380 takes to the skies

01 October, 2019

5 min read

By joining our newsletter, you agree to our Privacy Policy

Share this story

Steve Creedy

Steve Creedy

01 October, 2019

Qantas says its long-awaited and overdue A380 refresh will help improve the economics of the four-engine superjumbos while delivering a new level of comfort to passengers. The first aircraft to emerge from the program, VH-OQK, will operate as QF2 from London to Sydney via Singapore and arrive in Australia on October 2. SEE largest Concorde model takes to the skies The multi-million-dollar revamp comes as airlines such as Air France and Lufthansa are retiring their A380s rather than go through the costly process of refurbishing them. Despite its popularity with passengers, deliveries of the A380 are due to end in 2021 after the giant plane lost the efficiency battle against new twin-engine aircraft. Qantas decided some time ago against expanding its A380 fleet and is looking at potential replacements such as the Airbus A350 and Boeing 777X.
Image
New A380 business class
However, it has signaled that it intends to keep the flagship aircraft for the foreseeable future. “The A380 is a crucial part of our long-haul fleet and this upgrade program will see customers enjoy everything the aircraft has to offer for years to come,” Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce said. “It also provides an increase in business and premium economy seating to help match the demand we’re seeing on our long-haul routes.
Image
New Qantas A380 business class
“Working with Airbus, we’ve been able to use the cabin space more efficiently and improve the economics of the aircraft while also providing a better experience in every part of the aircraft.” The new configuration sees the number of First Suites stay the same at 14, 70 business suites (up by six), 60 premium economy seats (up by 25) and 341 economy seats (down by 30). The total seat count increases by one to 485.
Image
New Qantas A380 First Class
The biggest change in the revamp is the replacement of aging business class seats with the Qantas Business Suite in a 1-2-1 configuration. This gives all business class customers direct aisle access and is a boost in terms of comfort and storage. There is also an expanded lounge with seating for up to 10 business and first passengers.
Image
The new lounge area.
The premium economy seating has been upgraded and is now the same as on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner while First has been refreshed with new contoured cushioning, seat finishing a bigger, higher-resolution video screen.
Image
New lounge area
Economy passengers get a new color palette and improved inflight entertainment. A380 refresh Each aircraft takes about eight weeks to upgrade and Qantas expects to complete the refurbishment by the end of 2020.        

Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox

No spam, no hassle, no fuss, just airline news direct to you.

By joining our newsletter, you agree to our Privacy Policy

Find us on social media

Comments

No comments yet, be the first to write one.