Qantas has announced a major Boeing 737 cabin upgrade program which it says will introduce a next-generation in-flight experience across more Australian domestic and short-haul international flights.
All 42 of QF’s 737s will be retrofitted with new business class seats, new economy seats, larger overhead lockers, a cabin refresh and continue to offer ‘fast and free wifi’.
The first refurbished aircraft is expected to start flying from 2027 on short-haul routes including the Tasman and Australian domestic routes. The upgrades are part of QFs overall domestic fleet investment.
“Investing in our fleet is one of the most significant ways that we can transform the flying experience for our customers and make sure we’re consistently delivering a great journey,” says Qantas Group ceo Vanessa Hudson. “As we bring more new aircraft into our fleet, we are also making our existing aircraft look and feel like new.”
The 737 aircraft being upgraded are scheduled to leave the QF fleet towards the end of the renewal program. Some of the remaining aircraft due to retire earlier will also undergo cabin improvements.
QF and Jetstar have more than 100 new aircraft on firm order (with many more purchase right options) and now, more than 80 aircraft that are set to undergo cabin upgrades.
. . . Recapping
A quick review of those wider fleet upgrades includes 10 A330-200 getting ‘significant cabin uplifts’, including installation of the brand-new Project Sunrise economy seats, 20% larger entertainment screens, and USB-C fast charging and Bluetooth connectivity. Curtains and carpets will also be replaced and new mood lighting installed.
JQ is gearing up for a multimillion 787 upgrade program which includes overhauling the economy and business class cabins with new seats and wifi connectivity from 2026. The business class cabin will more than double to meet the growing premium demand, increasing from 21 seats to 44, adds the group.
