Qatar Airways ramps up Australian flights as global network expands
Qatar Airways is significantly increasing its Australian flight capacity, restoring daily services to major cities as part of a broader global expansion.
The Doha-based carrier confirmed it will expand its international network to more than 150 destinations from June 16, marking a major step in its post-disruption recovery.
From May 1, flights to Sydney, Melbourne and Perth will return to daily operations, up from the current five weekly services. Brisbane will also see a gradual return, with four flights per week resuming from May 16 before increasing to daily services from June 16.
The expansion comes as Qatar Airways restores key global routes, including European destinations such as Budapest, London Gatwick, Mykonos and Nice from mid-May, followed by Brussels, Düsseldorf, Lisbon, Oslo and Prague in June.
Airspace reopening supports expansion
The airline’s growth follows the reopening of Qatari airspace after heightened tensions in the Middle East.
On April 20, the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority confirmed the safe and gradual resumption of operations at Hamad International Airport.
Authorities said the decision followed a comprehensive safety assessment in coordination with national entities, ensuring operations meet international security and safety standards.
Virgin Australia partnership resumes key routes
Partner airline Virgin Australia will also restart key long-haul services from June 16, with daily Sydney–Doha and Melbourne–Doha flights operated by Qatar Airways.
However, Brisbane and Perth services under the partnership remain suspended until at least September 15, 2026.
Passengers travelling from Sydney will benefit from upgraded aircraft, with QR980/QR909 services featuring the Airbus A350 equipped with Qatar Airways’ award-winning Qsuite business class.
The premium cabin includes private suites with sliding doors, large high-definition screens and enhanced storage, designed to maximise comfort and productivity on long-haul flights.
Flexible travel options for passengers
The airline is offering added flexibility for travellers affected by recent disruptions.
Passengers with bookings between February 28 and September 15, 2026 can change travel dates free of charge to flights up to October 31, subject to availability. Refunds for unused tickets also remain available.
Travel warnings remain in place
Despite the operational recovery, Australia’s official travel advisory platform, Smarttraveller, continues to advise Australians not to travel to Qatar, including for transit, due to ongoing regional instability.
The advisory, last updated on April 9, cites a volatile security environment linked to the broader Middle East conflict.
WT.24
Greek City Times
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