Qantas Accelerates Return of Airbus A380 to Service

(19 Nov 2021)  Qantas’ Airbus A380 flew back to Australia earlier this month, after being away for more than 590 days.

Before its return, the aircraft underwent scheduled maintenance for a new landing gear, after spending almost two years in storage because of the COVID19 pandemic.

Originally expected to remain in long term storage in the Californian desert until the end of 2023, Qantas has since decided that five A380s with upgraded cabins would return ahead of schedule with two to operate flights to Los Angeles from April 2022 and three to operate flights to London from November 2022.

Qantas Airbus A380 reg: VH-OQB

The airline is now working to further accelerate the return of the A380s, with superjumbo flights to London brought forward to July 2022.

In addition, a sixth aircraft will arrive before the end of calendar year 2022, with the remaining four A380s expected to return to service by early 2024.

“The A380 is a fantastic aircraft and we are very excited to welcome it home,” said Qantas Chief Pilot Captain, Richard Tobiano. “The early return is symbolic of how quickly demand for international travel has bounced back and this aircraft will play a key role in preparing our crew to return to A380 flying operations in the new year. Many of our crew have found other jobs during the pandemic doing everything from working in vaccination hubs and hospital wards to driving buses and tractors, and painting houses. Over the next few months, pilots will undergo an extensive retraining period including simulator sessions, training flights and classroom courses to prepare for take-off.”

Six of Qantas’ A380s have had an interior redesign featuring new premium upper deck with new supper club style lounge and brand-new seats across the Business Class and Premium Economy cabins, as well as a main deck refresh including new carpet and curtains.

The remaining aircraft will be refitted before they return to service.

The 485-seat A380 is the only aircraft in the Qantas fleet that offers a First Class cabin. The luxury option features suites with fully lay flat beds, premium Neil Perry multi-course dining experience, an award-winning Australian wine cellar and Martin Grant designed First ClassPJs.