Although originally expected to remain in long-term storage in the Californian desert until the end of 2023, Qantas Group had announced in August that five A380s with upgraded cabins would return from July 2022 to operate flights to Los Angeles and London.
But, based on increased demand and the removal of restrictions, that return is to be brought forward by another three months, with two of the A380s starting to fly to Los Angeles from April 2022.
One of the aircraft could arrive later this year to assist crew training prior to their return to service. Three other A380s will return to service from mid-November 2022 and the remaining five are expected to return to service in early 2024.
Although the 787 delivery restart date is not yet known, Qantas also wants to bring forward the receipt of three new 787-9 aircraft currently in storage by Boeing, several months ahead of schedule. Jetstar will also reactivate the five Boeing 787-8s it was holding in preservation in the coming months, to restore its total fleet of 11 Dreamliners.
“Our customers and crew love flying on our iconic A380s, so the news that they will be flying to Los Angeles again from April next year will be very welcome. The Federal Government’s support in ensuring our aircraft and crew are ready to resume flights once the borders are reopened has been critical,” said Alan Joyce, Qantas Group CEO.
