John Travolta greets Qantas Airways first non-stop A380 flight in Dallas

 

It was an auspicious occasion for Qantas Airways today, September 29, with the Australian carrier’s launch of its first non-stop A380 service between Dallas/Fort Worth and Sydney. The event, which was presided over by the airline’s AmbassadorJohn Travolta who said, ““I’m thrilled to be part of this special and historic moment for Qantas. It’s exciting news for Americans that the world’s biggest and one of the most luxurious passenger aircraft is now flying between Dallas Fort Worth and Sydney.” “I have been lucky enough to experience the Qantas A380 and it really is quiet and spacious. I also love the food and the friendly Australian service from all the crew,” added Travolta.

The event also highlighted some major design changes for the aircraft done by world-renowned industrial designer and Qantas creative director Marc Newson that include:

• State-of-the-art inflight entertainment system manufactured by Panasonic Avionics Corporation
•  Complimentary menu and self-service snack bars are offered in Economy
• Rockpool inspired menus, designed by Neil Perry for customers in First, Business and Premium Economy
• Amenities such as sleep turndown service, in-seat massage controls, an award-winning Sommeliers In The Sky program and more for First and Business class passengers

Qantas Airways senior executive vice president, The Americas, Vanessa Hudson said the introduction of the Qantas A380 would offer more comfort and greater travel options for US travellers. “Our new A380 service from Dallas/Fort Worth to Sydney means Americans can now fly on the world’s largest passenger aircraft and enjoy its spacious interiors and quiet cabins on our overnight service to Australia,” she added. “We know time is a precious commodity for our US customers, whether travelling for business or leisure, so we’ve invested heavily to ensure our customers enjoy their journey from the moment they step on board to the time when they land in Sydney.”

Tge only carrier to operate A380 services between the US and Australia, Qantas started services between Dallas/Fort Worth and Sydney in 2011 and has since carried more than 300,000 passengers on the route. The A380 route represents a net increase of 10 per cent more seats per week, compared to the B747 that Qantas previously flew on the route. Destination NSW Chief Executive Officer Sandra Chipchase said: “These new non-stop services will make it even easier for Americans to visit Sydney and NSW, which offers pristine beaches, vibrant and diverse events, Aussie hospitality and our State’s outstanding food and wine experiences.” “The US is one of our top five inbound visitor markets. In the past financial year 317,000 visitors from the United States contributed approximately $546 million into the NSW economy, so we look forward to welcoming even more American visitors to Sydney to enjoy our beautiful Harbour City and regional surrounds,” she said.

The new A380, which has 484 seats, will make six round trip flights weekly between Dallas/Fort Worth and Sydney (every day except Tuesdays). QF8 will depart DFW at 2215 and arrive in Sydney at 0605 local time two days later (due to an evening departure and the international dateline). The return service QF7 will depart Sydney at 1310 and arrive at DFW International Airport at 1345 local time (the same day).

To mark the occasion, Qantas painted its A380 aircraft operating the route with a special livery; the kangaroo on the tail features a traditional Stetson hat with a neckerchief in the American-stars print, with a “G’Day Texas” emblem next to the forward doors.