Qantas projects growing demand for international travel in the half year to December 31 will continue in 2025.
The Australian carrier’s international division saw underlying earnings before interest and tax (ebit) rise by 5% year-on-year to almost A$500 million in the six months.
Overall pre-tax profit rose by 11% to $1.39 billion as Qantas and budget sister carrier Jetstar carried almost 10% more passengers in the period.
Two remaining Airbus A380 superjumbos are expected to return to service later this year.
The airline expects the first ultra long range A350-1000 (pictured) to enter the final assembly stage in September, which will be followed by flight testing ahead of its delivery in the second half of 2026.
The 238-passenger aircraft will then be scheduled to operate the first Project Sunrise non-stop flights from Sydney to London and New York, first projected in 2017. Qantas began direct flights between Perth and London in 2018.
Releasing results for the six months, the carrier said: “Qantas experienced an increase in demand for premium cabins across its international network, with a 2.5 percentage point increase in load factors across first, business and premium economy cabins.
“Qantas’ long-haul, direct flights continue to perform well, delivering consistently high customer satisfaction.”
Chief executive Vanessa Hudson “The group’s performance highlights the benefits of having both a premium and a low fares airline and a strong loyalty programme.
“We’re seeing progress from the investments we are making for our customers and people but we know there’s more work to do to consistently deliver in the moments that matter. This is a key part of rebuilding trust and continues to be our focus.
“Australians have always loved to travel and continue to prioritise it over other spending options. Looking forward, we continue to see intention to travel from leisure and corporate customers remaining high.
“Our financial strength means we are now in a position to pay our shareholders dividends for the first time in almost six years.”