Qantas Doubles Capacity on This Popular Leisure way from Perth

dailyblitz.de 6 hours ago

PERTH- Qantas Airways (QF) has announced an expansion of its Perth (PER) to Rome (FCO) service, extending the seasonal schedule and adding more flights for 2026.

The airline will operate from 3 May to 23 October, offering up to four flights per week at peak, nearly doubling capacity and providing close to 10,000 additional seats.

Qantas Doubles Capacity on Perth-Rome Route

Qantas will stretch its Perth–Rome schedule by eight weeks, capturing both early summer and late autumn in Italy.

The airline will increase frequency from three to four weekly flights during the peak travel period between June and September, bringing the total to more than 40 additional services.

This adjustment means more choices for passengers heading to Rome (FCO) and onward across Italy and Europe. For travellers departing Australia’s east coast, schedules are aligned to connect smoothly through Perth (PER), ensuring efficient travel without long layovers.

A Historic Link Between Australia and Europe

The nonstop Perth–Rome service launched in 2022, marking the first direct connection between Australia and continental Europe by any airline.

Since its debut, over 70,000 passengers have flown the route, with high demand proving its long-term value.

From Perth, Qantas also flies to London (LHR), Paris (CDG), Singapore (SIN), and will add Johannesburg (JNB) and Auckland (AKL) in late 2025, pending approval. The growth of long-haul flights positions Perth as a major hub for European and international travel.

Strategic Benefits for Western Australia

Western Australian leaders have highlighted the importance of this expanded Rome service. Premier Roger Cook noted that the route strengthens Perth’s status as the “gateway to Australia from Europe” and supports tourism and business ties.

Tourism Minister Reece Whitby added that more flights and an extended season will drive thousands of extra visitors to the state, boosting the economy while reinforcing Western Australia’s role as Australia’s western entry point.

Strong Passenger Demand

Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace confirmed that the Rome service continues to achieve some of the highest satisfaction scores across the airline’s international network.

He credited the convenience of evening departures from Perth, arriving in Rome the following morning, as a key reason for its popularity.

With over half of passengers originating from eastern Australia, the timing of connections through Perth makes the nonstop Rome service a practical choice.

The nearly doubled capacity reflects consistent demand and strong interest from both leisure and family travellers.