Qantas? first non-stop London to Perth service recently took off, marking the start of the only direct air link between Europe and Australia and the fastest way of travelling between the two countries.
The history-making flight (QF10) launched on March 25, carrying more than 200 passengers and 16 crew. Operated by a Boeing 787-9, the flight reduces total travel time by eliminating stopovers and taking advantage of the most favourable winds on any given day without having to factor in a mid-point when choosing a flight path.
Alan Joyce, the group?s CEO, said: ?This is a truly historic flight that opens up a new era of travel. For the first time, Europe and Australia have a direct air link.
?The original Kangaroo Route from London to Australia was named for the seven stops it made over four days back in 1947. That initial flight was a modern marvel when it started, and the journey gradually became shorter over the years. Now we can do it in a single leap.
?We know lots of people in the UK want to visit Australia but find the journey a bit daunting. This is now the fastest and simplest way to fly down under. It?s going to make a big difference for people visiting friends and family on both sides of the world, as well as holiday-makers and business travellers.?
The airline chose its newest Dreamliner ?Emily? to operate the inaugural service, which features a striking livery by Balarinji based on the artwork Yam Dreaming by Indigenous artist Emily Kame Kngwarreye. The initiative is part of the national carrier?s commitment to promoting the best of Australia to the world.
A large amount of work has gone into improving the experience for customers taking the 17 hour journey. Joyce added: ?This is hands-down the most comfortable aircraft that Qantas has ever put in the sky. Boeing designed the Dreamliner with features to reduce jetlag, turbulence and noise. We?ve taken that a step further with our cabin design, giving passengers more space in every class as well as bigger entertainment screens and more personal storage.
?We?ve worked with the University of Sydney and our consulting chef Neil Perry to create a menu that helps the body cope better with jetlag and adjusted the timing of when we serve food to encourage sleep.?
Qantas customers can now choose from three routes between the UK and Australia ? a daily Qantas 787 Dreamliner service from London to Melbourne via Perth, a daily London to Sydney service via Singapore on the Qantas A380, and via Dubai with partner Emirates.
