Qantas, Australia's national carrier, has rekindled its connection with the "City of Lights," marking its return to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) after a 20-year hiatus. This exciting development signifies Qantas' continued expansion into the European market, offering passengers a swifter and more convenient travel option. The new route operates directly from Perth (PER) to Paris, utilizing the technologically advanced Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.
This state-of-the-art aircraft boasts superior fuel efficiency, allowing Qantas to bridge the vast distance between Australia and France with nonstop flights. The inaugural service clocked in at an impressive 17 hours and 20 minutes, shaving off a significant amount of travel time compared to previous options with layovers. This direct connection between Perth and Paris isn't just about convenience for leisure travelers. The strategic location of Perth as a hub allows Qantas to optimize its fleet. By employing a "scissor hub" model, three Dreamliners can service not only Paris but also established routes to London and Rome, along with crucial domestic connections to Sydney and Melbourne. This network expansion strengthens Qantas' foothold in Europe and caters to the growing demand for direct Australia-Europe travel.
The return to Paris coincides with the recent Olympic and Paralympic Games, highlighting Qantas' commitment to connecting Australians with major global events. This new route also brings Qantas closer to realizing its ambitious "Project Sunrise," which aims to establish ultra-long-haul flights directly from Australia to Europe's eastern cities.
Qantas' comeback to Paris not only injects excitement into the travel scene but also bolsters Perth's position as a vital aviation hub. Passengers flying between Australia and Europe can now experience a seamless and time-saving journey aboard Qantas' modern Dreamliners. This development marks a significant chapter in Qantas' European expansion strategy, promising a brighter future for direct travel between Australia and the continent.