Qantas will reintroduce services between Perth and Johannesburg in December.
Last month, the airline released an operational plan including services between Perth and Johannesburg on its schedule. The airline has now confirmed that this service will begin later this year.
The route will be offered three times a week. It will be operated with an Airbus A330 aircraft. The inaugural Perth-Johannesburg service is expected to take off on Dec. 7. However, this date is subject to government and regulatory approval.
Relaunch of Auckland Flights
The announcement of this new route coincides with the reintroduction of Qantas flights from Perth to Auckland, New Zealand. Qantas discontinued seasonal services between Perth and Auckland in January 2018.
“By connecting Perth directly with Auckland and Johannesburg, we’re supporting the local economy by opening valuable inbound tourism opportunities for Western Australia, as well as generating new jobs for the state. These routes also enable further growth throughout Australia with connections across our domestic network.” Qantas International’s CEO, Cam Wallace stated, in a media release.
Overcoming Logistical Obstacles
This is, however, not the first time Qantas has offered services between Perth and Johannesburg. The airline operated this route for a brief period a few years ago. Sustainability in the Sky reports that the service was suspended due to logistical issues at Perth Airport, resulting in flights departing and arriving at different terminals.
The resumed service has been made possible by funding allocated from the Federal Government to the Australian Border Force and the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry to deliver additional border services at airports. The funding enables Perth Airport to invest in additional staffing, equipment and facilities that increase border and biosecurity capacity and thus allow the airport to receive more international flights.
