SYDNEY- Australian flag carrier, Qantas Airways (QF), is set to launch direct flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Honolulu (HNL), Hawaii starting in early May 2025.
This expansion will add over 40,000 seats annually to the Hawaiian capital, complementing existing Sydney (SYD)-Honolulu services operated by Qantas and Jetstar (JQ). The new route will operate thrice weekly using Airbus A330 aircraft.
Qantas Melbourne to Honolulu Flights
As Qantas introduces this service, Jetstar will discontinue its twice-weekly Boeing 787 Dreamliner flights from Melbourne to Honolulu on April 30, 2025. Jetstar plans to redeploy these aircraft to another long-haul route.
Qantas CEO International, Cam Wallace, has officially announced the launch of a new direct route connecting Melbourne to Honolulu. This strategic expansion aims to enhance Qantas’ network in America, offering Melbourne customers access to a new tropical destination.
Wallace emphasized the significance of this development, stating,
We are thrilled to continue to enhance our network in America with the launch of a new route from Melbourne to Honolulu, bringing a new, tropical destination to our Melbourne customers.”
Cam Wallace, Qantas CEO International
Coinciding with this announcement, Qantas has unveiled a 7-day North and South America Red Tail Sale.
America (US) Red Tail Sale
The promotion offers discounts on more than 50,000 seats across the Qantas network. Economy fares start at $1,049 return, covering over 30 routes including Sydney and Brisbane to Los Angeles ($1,199), Sydney to Vancouver ($1,599), Melbourne to Honolulu ($1,049), and Melbourne to Dallas ($1,699).
The sale fares apply to travel periods between October 2024 and June 2025, providing opportunities for business trips, family visits, and vacations.
All sale fares include checked baggage, complimentary food and beverages, and seat selection. Qantas Frequent Flyers will earn Qantas Points and Status Credits on eligible flights.
| Class | Route | Cash sale fare | Classic Plus reward seat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy Return Sale Fares | Melbourne to Honolulu | $1,049 | 61,900 points + $430 |
| Sydney to Los Angeles | $1,199 | 81,700 points + $382 | |
| Sydney to Vancouver | $1,599 | 122,800 points + $371 | |
| Sydney to New York (JFK) | $1,699 | 125,600 points + $443 | |
| Sydney to Santiago | $1,999 | 161,800 points + $381 | |
| Premium Economy Return Sale Fares | Melbourne to Honolulu | $2,399 | 120,600 points + $618 |
| Sydney to Los Angeles | $3,399 | 190,500 points + $542 | |
| Sydney to New York (JFK) | $4,299 | 245,100 points + $623 | |
| Business Sale Return Fares | Melbourne to Honolulu | $5,699 | 297,300 points + $1,240 |
| Sydney to Los Angeles | $7,599 | 427,200 points + $1,192 | |
| Sydney to New York (JFK) | $8,699 | 490,400 points + $1,343 |
The announcement comes with a caveat that the new route is subject to government and regulatory approval, indicating the airline’s adherence to necessary protocols before commencing operations.
The sale ends at 11:59 pm on Monday, September 9, 2024, unless sold out prior. Travelers should note that selected travel dates and days apply, and fares may not be available on all flights or days. Blackout periods are in effect for certain dates.
More Flights to New York
Sydney-based carrier also announced an increase to its existing flights from Sydney (SYD) to New York (JFK) via Auckland (AKL), starting October 10. Qantas will operate six weekly non-stop flights between these cities, up from the current four.
The Dreamliner service, originating in Sydney (SYD), competes directly with Air New Zealand (NZ) on this route. However, Air New Zealand currently offers only three weekly flights due to a shortage of ultra-long-haul aircraft.
The Auckland-New York flight, operating at JFK Airport, serves as a gateway for passengers connecting to European destinations, with London (LHR), Paris (CDG), and Madrid (MAD) being the top choices.
What are your thoughts on Qantas’ Australia-Hawaii network expansion? Let us know in the comments below.
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