Qantas has launched two new international routes from Perth, connecting Western Australia directly with Johannesburg and Auckland in a move that strengthens Perth’s position as the airline’s key western international hub.
The inaugural flight to Johannesburg (QF65) took off this week, while the first-ever Qantas service from Auckland to Perth (QF112) landed earlier in the day. These new routes add over 150,000 international seats annually and enhance connectivity across three continents, supporting jobs and tourism growth in Western Australia.
Strengthening Global Links Through Perth
The new routes are part of Qantas’ broader strategy to expand international services out of Perth, providing more seamless options for travellers to reach key destinations across Africa and New Zealand.
Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace said the response to the new services had been extremely positive, with the first Johannesburg flight nearly full. “These routes unlock more options and greater choice for all Australians to connect to the world,” he said, highlighting onward connections to Cape Town via Airlink and to New York via Auckland.
Supported by Federal and Airport Investment
The new services were made possible through targeted federal government funding to enhance biosecurity and border services, enabling Perth Airport to upgrade staffing and facilities to handle increased international traffic.
Perth Airport’s Chief Commercial & Aviation Officer Kate Holsgrove welcomed the expansion, noting that the new flights would “create local jobs, drive tourism, support business and strengthen our connections to global markets.”
Boost for Tourism and Families
Tourism leaders have also welcomed the new services. Minister for Tourism Don Farrell said the flights would bring economic benefits through tourism and trade, while Tourism New Zealand Regional Director Andrew Waddel noted the route would make travel easier for both tourists and the 75,000 New Zealanders living in Western Australia.
Route Details
Perth to Johannesburg (QF65):
Operates three times weekly (Tuesday, Friday, Sunday) using Airbus A330 aircraft with 27 lie-flat Business Class seats and 224 Economy seats. Flight time is approximately 11 hours and 15 minutes.
Perth to Auckland (QF111):
Also operates three times weekly (Monday, Wednesday, Saturday) with the same aircraft configuration. Flight time is around 6 hours and 45 minutes. The route offers onward connections to New York.
