In a significant move aimed at bolstering travel experiences for regional flyers, Qantas Airways has announced substantial enhancements to several airport lounges throughout Australia. The upgrades will involve seven lounges across Western Australia, New South Wales, and Queensland, directly addressing the needs of regional travelers.
The flagship among the improvements is the newly opened Broome Airport lounge, unveiled on March 24, 2025. This lounge expansion doubles the previous capacity and features stunning north-facing tarmac views, complemented by a modern design inspired by the colors of the Dampier Peninsula.
Rachel Yangoyan, CEO of QantasLink, underscored the airline's commitment to regional Australia by stating, “We’ve been part of regional Australia for more than 100 years, and we want to make sure that we’re continuing to invest and deepen how we serve communities across the country for decades to come.” This commitment includes a multimillion-dollar investment spread over the next 12 months to refresh and upgrade the selected lounges.
The upgrades will not only modernize the facilities with new seating and furnishings, but will also integrate enhanced technology and sustainability initiatives, particularly in reducing single-use plastics. Furthermore, the renovated lounges aim to celebrate Australian art, featuring new works from local artists that reflect the cultural heritage of the regions they serve.
The lounges slated for improvements include those at Karratha, Coffs Harbour, Tamworth, Mackay, Emerald, Gladstone, and Rockhampton. Improvement works are expected to begin shortly, aiming to complete the revamps over the coming months.
In addition to the lounge upgrades, QantasLink recently announced the incorporation of over 40 new aircraft into its existing fleet. This move is anticipated to enhance the customer experience through improved regional connectivity and in-flight services, reinforcing Qantas's dedication to the regional flying landscape.
Yangoyan highlighted the significance of these changes in the context of customer satisfaction. She mentioned, “Delivering a great experience across the whole travel journey is important which is why we’re upgrading and refreshing seven of our regional lounges over the next 12 months with a multimillion-dollar investment.”
Moreover, the airline revealed an updated menu for its First and Business lounges, introducing seasonal offerings tailored to reflect various flavors. Among the new offerings is the Continental cocktail, made with Croissant Gin by Lune, as well as Rhubarb Spritz and Plum On Sour cocktails set to tantalize taste buds and improve customer satisfaction.
Qantas is breaking new ground with these investments in both infrastructure and services, indicating its long-term vision for the future of regional flying in Australia. This comprehensive approach, focused on comfort, sustainability, and cultural representation, sets a new benchmark for regional air travel.
As these upgrades roll out across the country, Qantas aims to reassure its customers of its unwavering commitment to enhancing not just the flights but the overall travel experience, showcasing how regional connectivity will benefit both the airline and the communities they serve.
