Australian oneworld member Qantas will boost the number of flights between Christchurch and Brisbane and Melbourne.
From late October 2024, the airline will add more than 175,000 additional seats to the routes over 12 months, compared to its current schedule.
Brisbane-Christchurch flights will increase from daily to between 10 to 12 services per week from late October, adding up to 1,700 seats on the route each week.
Melbourne-Christchurch flights will increase from daily to 12 per week over the December/January peak and continue between 10 to 12 per week through 2025, adding up to 1,700 seats on the route each week.
Christchurch airport chief executive Justin Watson says the airline’s decision is a response to strong demand, and a vote of confidence in Christchurch and the South Island.
“Qantas’ extra flights gives locals more choice as to when they can visit friends and family in Australia and it makes it even easier to connect with long-haul destinations, including Europe and Asia through Qantas’ extensive network.”
Qantas typically operates its two-class Boeing 737-800 aircraft between Australia and Christchurch, with 12 recliner seats in 2-2 business class and 162 seats in 3-3 economy class.
Qantas already flies 14 flights a week to Sydney and additionally offers daily seats to Sydney on its alliance partner Emirates.
