SYDNEY- The Flag carrier of Australia, Qantas (QF) has inaugurated the much-awaited Sydney (SYD) to Paris (CDG) flight via Perth (PER) today (July 12, 2024).
A 101-year-old carrier announced the launch of a new destination, Paris in October 2023. This new route coincides with the Paris Olympics and Paralympic Games 2024. Qantas already operates non-stop flights to London (LHR) and Rome (FCO).
Qantas Perth to Paris Flight
According to the schedule, Qantas flight has taken off from Kingsford Smith Airport, Sydney at 2:41 PM local time. The flight is over the Great Australian Oceanic Bight at the time of publication of this article and will arrive at Perth International Airport at 5:00 PM local time.
The next leg of the flight is scheduled to take off from Perth at 7:35 PM local time. After a long 17-hour journey, the flight will touch down in Paris the next day (July 13) at 6:55 AM local time.
The airline will serve to operate 4x weekly flights using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. But from August 2024, the airline will downgrade it to 3x weekly flights as the Olympic games will be concluded by that time.
Last month, Qantas revealed a special ‘GO AUSTRALIA’ livery on one of its 787-9 registered as VH-ZNH. However, the launch flight is operated by VH-ZNA named as ‘Great Southern Land’. The 787 with Go Australia livery is currently serving Los Angeles (LAX) and London.
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Qantas is the only airline that operates flights between Australia and Continental Europe. Here’s the flight details:
- QF9/QF10 Perth-London (Boeing 787)
- QF5/QF6 Perth-Rome (787)
- QF33/QF34 Perth-Paris (787) (It flies from Sydney)
- QF1/QF2 Sydney-Singapore-London (Airbus A380)
New Amenity Kits and French Menu
As Qantas gears up to launch its new direct services between Perth and Paris, the airline is rolling out an array of French-inspired offerings to enhance the passenger experience.
Business Class travelers on this route will be treated to exclusive, limited-edition pyjamas and amenity kits designed by Australian fashion icon Martin Grant. These navy pyjamas, which symbolize the journey between Australia and France, reflect Grant’s deep connection to Paris, his home for the past three decades.
To complement the stylish amenities, Qantas is also introducing a specially curated French menu under the guidance of Neil Perry, the airline’s Creative Director of Food, Beverage, and Service. Passengers can look forward to savoring classic French dishes such as bouillabaisse, and chicken pithivier, and decadent desserts like chocolate mousse with caramel poached pears.
The airline is also introducing a French 75 cocktail for business-class customers, adding a touch of celebratory flair to the inflight service.
Perry emphasizes that the new menu strives to capture the essence of French cuisine, balancing richness and freshness while maintaining familiar elements that Qantas customers appreciate. The French culinary experience extends beyond the flight, with bistro favorites like crème caramel and goats cheese salad being offered in selected Qantas First and Business lounges across Australia.
This thoughtful blend of fashion, comfort, and gastronomy showcases Qantas’ commitment to creating a uniquely French experience for passengers on this new route, bridging the gap between Australia and France in style.
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Executive Insights
Qantas Group’s New CEO Vanessa Hudson is excited about direct flights from Australia to Paris. This long-awaited addition to Qantas’ route map fulfills a significant customer demand, following the success of their direct flights to London and Rome.
The new service is expected to be popular, with Paris being the next most-requested destination after these existing routes. Notably, some of the first passengers will be Australian athletes heading to compete in the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Hudson emphasized that Qantas is uniquely positioned to offer these non-stop flights, designed with long-haul travel in mind, catering specifically to the Australian market. The new route will significantly increase seat capacity between Australia and Europe, adding over 75,000 seats annually.
Qantas also plans to collaborate with Tourism WA to leverage this opportunity, recognizing that direct flights are a crucial factor in attracting international tourists to Australia.
Anna Meares, the Chef de Mission for the Australian Olympic Team at Paris 2024, has expressed her enthusiasm for Qantas’ continued support of Australian athletes. She highlighted the airline’s long-standing (70+ years) commitment to supporting Olympic dreams, emphasizing the special significance of Qantas’ involvement for generations of Australian Olympians.
Meares shared her excitement about Qantas showcasing their support for Australian Olympians on their 787 Dreamliner. Drawing from her personal experience as an Olympian, she recalled the cherished memory of returning home from the Games on a Qantas plane and being welcomed by friends and family in the Qantas hangar.
Looking ahead to the 2024 Paris Games, Meares expressed her anticipation for the new generation of Australian Olympians to create their own memorable experiences with Qantas, both on their journey to and from the Olympics.
Paris: City of Love, Light and Fashion
Well, you must be wondering, why Paris is one of the top destinations for tourists. It’s because Paris is a timeless travel destination, that offers a wealth of experiences across its 20 arrondissements. From savoring exquisite French cuisine to exploring contemporary art and fashion, the city caters to all tastes and interests. Whether you prefer to live like a local or tour iconic landmarks, Paris has something for everyone.
The city’s diverse neighborhoods each have their unique charm. For those seeking a central location, the first arrondissement is ideal, with the cozy Hotel Crayon offering a homey base.
Romantic couples often gravitate towards Montmartre’s winding streets and village atmosphere, with the secluded Hôtel Particulier Montmartre providing an intimate retreat. Literary enthusiasts might enjoy staying in Oscar Wilde’s former room at the luxurious L’Hotel in the sixth arrondissement.
For nightlife enthusiasts, Pigalle is the go-to area, while budget travelers can find affordable accommodations at Generator Hostel in the lively 10th district. Design aficionados will appreciate the 18th-century elegance of Hotel des Grands Boulevards, and those seeking refined luxury can explore the private mansions and revamped townhouses in the stylish eighth arrondissement, such as Hotel Splendide Royal.
A typical day in Paris might begin with a fresh croissant from Blé Sucré, followed by an early tour of the Louvre. Weekends offer the opportunity to explore the world’s largest flea market, Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen.
Lunch could be an affordable tasting menu at Restaurant Frenchie, followed by shopping for sustainable fashion at Centre Commercial or indulging in cult beauty products. For a sweet treat, Pierre Hermé’s macarons and pastries are a must-try.
As evening approaches, wine enthusiasts can enjoy natural wines at the intimate Septime la Cave. A classic French bistro experience, such as steak-frites at La Bourse et la Vie, is essential for any Parisian trip. The night can be capped off with drinks or dancing at Glass, providing a perfect end to a day in the City of Light.
Qantas Cancelled Flights Compensation
Traveling with Qantas to Europe can be an exciting experience, but sometimes things don’t go as planned. While Qantas flies to London, Paris, and Rome (seasonally), flight delays and cancellations can occur, causing inconvenience and unexpected expenses for passengers.
Currently, if your Qantas flight from Australia to these European cities faces significant delays or cancellations, there’s no formal compensation system in place. You’re essentially at Qantas’ discretion unless you have travel insurance to cover such situations. However, this might change soon with the ‘Pay on Delay’ legislation being considered in Australia.
The good news is that for your return journey from London, Paris, or Rome back to Australia, you’re protected by UK and EU laws.These laws require Qantas to compensate passengers up to $1,000 for significant delays, cancellations, or if you’re bumped off due to overbooking.
This protection, known as EU261, covers flights departing from EU airports on any airline, or flights to EU airports on EU-based airlines. It applies to delays of three or more hours, cancellations made less than two weeks before departure, and cases where you’re denied boarding due to overbooking.
For long-haul Qantas flights like QF34 and QF6 to Australia, which fall into the highest distance bracket, you could be entitled to €600 if your flight is delayed by three or more hours, canceled, or if you’re bumped off an overbooked flight.
Moreover, in cases of long delays or cancellations, Qantas is required to cover reasonable expenses such as meals, and in some cases, overnight accommodation and transportation.
Remember, while travel hiccups can be frustrating, knowing your rights can help you navigate these situations more effectively. If you’d like more information on this topic visit the official website here or let us know in the comments.
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Feature Image: Adit Desai (@adeetography)
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