Qatar Airways uses Airbus A380 to increase Sydney capacity by 44%

Tuesday, 27 September 2016 00:21 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Qatar Airways has launched Airbus A380 flights to Sydney, the airlines’ first destination in Australia to be served by the super-jumbo.

The 517-seat A380 aircraft increases Qatar Airways’ current daily capacity by 44% over the Boeing 777-300 aircraft which launched the route on 1 March.

“Customers flying to and from Sydney appreciate our global route network and our efficient flight schedules, which save them hours of time on the average itinerary. We are pleased to respond in kind, with the introduction of the A380 service to Sydney, offering 517 seats per flight,” said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker. “Australia is one of the main hubs of the business world in Asia Pacific, with many passengers flying worldwide for business and leisure.”

The 517-seat capacity is spread across twin decks in a tri-class configuration of eight seats in First Class, 48 seats in Business Class and 461 in Economy Class.

Passengers travelling from Sydney to London and Paris can enjoy the Qatar Airways A380 experience throughout their journey to these two European destinations.

“We’re thrilled that Qatar Airways has upgauged to an A380 within six months of the airline’s launch in Sydney, which is testament to their early success and strong loads,” said Kerrie Mather, Sydney Airport Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. “Qatar Airways’ Doha-Sydney service already generates an estimated 3,000 jobs and contributes more than $ 240 million to the economy per year, plus it provides passengers with more choice and connectivity. Sydney Airport estimates that Qatar Airways’ A380 will deliver an incremental $ 78 million in inbound visitor expenditure annually to Australia, supporting the federal government’s target of doubling overnight visitor expenditure by 2020.”

The First Class Cabin on the A380 features ultra-wide seats which automatically recline into a flat bed, two-passenger table extension dining, sleeper suits, flight slippers and amenities from Giorgio Armani.

Passengers travelling in Qatar Airways’ Business Class can also enjoy private aisle access with the 1-2-1 seat configuration and a suite of connectivity options including on-board Wi-Fi, keeping them fully connected to while up in the air.

In addition, passengers in First and Business Class can relax and socialise at the on-board lounge located on the upper deck of the super-jumbo.

Economy Class passengers also benefit with the added spaciousness of the A380, with higher ceilings on the main deck, a wider seat configuration and design to offer more leg room plus contoured headrests.