Qantas reached (07-Sep-2017) an agreement with Airbus to upgrade the cabins of its 12 A380s to improve passenger comfort on long haul operations while maximising economics. In particular, the upgrade will meet the airline's increased demand for revenue-enhancing premium cabins on flights to the US, Europe and Asia. Airbus will be responsible for the overall upper-deck integration. In addition Airbus will develop specific tailored monuments for Qantas and a new and unique business lounge area in the forward upper-deck. Capacity after the upgrade will be:
- 14 First class suites (unchanged);
- 70 Business class suites (up by six);
- 60 Premium economy seats (up by 25);
- 341 Economy seats (down by 30);
- Total of 485 seats (up by one).
The new interior takes advantage of the A380's large floor area to most efficiently embody Qantas' latest seat products for business class and premium economy. Installation will start in 2Q2019. All 12 aircraft are planned to be upgraded by around the end of 2020. [more - original PR]