Qantas Airways has announced exciting travel plans for Australians as it resumes and expands its international flight offerings. The airline is set to introduce a new direct route connecting Sydney to Sapporo, Japan, commencing on December 15, 2025. This new service will reinforce Qantas’s commitment to international travel as it marks the airline's 100th destination.
The Sydney to Sapporo flights will be operational three times weekly, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, using the Airbus A330-200 aircraft. This aircraft, which can carry between 210 and 250 passengers, is well-suited for the route, enabling Qantas to offer over 20,000 seats during the winter season. Tickets for this much-anticipated service will be available for purchase starting January 20, 2025.
Passengers flying this route can look forward to various amenities, including checked baggage, meals, drinks, and entertainment. The new flight schedule allows for early morning departures from Sydney, landing by evening at Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport. This route not only provides travelers with non-stop access to the breathtaking winter landscapes of Sapporo but also significantly reduces travel time, allowing more leisure time at the popular ski resorts.
Sapporo, known as the capital of Japan’s Hokkaido Prefecture, is celebrated for its vibrant winter atmosphere and snow sports. The city even hosted the Winter Olympics back in 1972, marking it as a historic winter destination. Notably, the timing of Qantas's new flights coincides with the renowned Sapporo Snow Festival, held every February. This week-long event draws visitors from around the world to experience Japan's cultural richness alongside its winter wonderland.
CEO Cam Wallace expressed enthusiasm for the new route, stating, "We know Sapporo is an extremely popular winter destination for Aussies who love snow and we’re excited to make it easier to reach Hokkaido’s world-class ski resorts." This sentiment underlines Qantas's dedication to enhancing travel opportunities for Australians eager to explore snow-covered terrains.
Aside from the new Sapporo connection, Qantas is also resuming non-stop flights from Darwin to two significant locations: Canberra and Singapore. These routes are pivotal for connecting the Northern Territory with major capital cities, catering to both business and leisure travelers alike. Although specific details on these resuming services are yet to be clearly outlined, the possibility of reinstated direct flights is likely to stimulate local economies and tourism.
Previously, Qantas suspended its flights to Sapporo due to the Covid-19 pandemic, when travel restrictions led to significant reductions in international travel. It had planned to recommence this service for the 2024/25 season but postponed those plans due to staff shortages at New Chitose Airport and fuel supply concerns. With the pandemic's impact receding, Qantas is revitalizing its international route network, promising to meet the travel ambitions of Australians.
The return to Sapporo and the re-launch of key Territory routes demonstrates Qantas's strategic intent to reinforce its position as Australia’s leading airline. By responding to traveler demand and seasonal opportunities, Qantas is solidifying its dedication to delivering exceptional travel experiences.
With the introduction of these routes, passengers can prepare for winter getaways and explore Sapporo's scenic resorts, combining leisure with adventure. It's clear, Qantas is making strides to connect Australians with the world.