Wayfarer TV: The best of Adelaide as Qantas resumes international flying from South Australia
The new route unlocks greater choice for South Australians across the airline’s expanding international network, including seamless connections to North America via New Zealand on the airline’s popular QF3 service from Auckland to New York.
Available to book now, the new seasonal route will add more than 30,000 seats between the two capital cities, boosting inbound tourism to the state.
Qantas Group CEO International Cam Wallace said it was an exciting and significant day both for Qantas and South Australians.
“Today we’re celebrating two huge milestones in Adelaide – launching a new direct international flight and our first Qantas Business Lounge at Adelaide Airport,” he said.
“This is fantastic news for our South Australian customers who will have access to a direct international flight to Auckland as well as opening up connections to New York via Auckland.
“For the millions of customers that visit our lounges, we know just how important it is to have a premium pre-flight experience and we’re so pleased to be bringing this to Adelaide today.
“The new lounge has been designed based off feedback and the features we know our customers’ value the most.”
South Australia Premier, Peter Malinauskas, said the new flights were a win for the state.
“It is great news that Qantas is re-establishing a direct international flight out of Adelaide with this new service to Auckland,” he said.
“There is no better friend to Australia than New Zealand – and this connection is only set to bring us even closer.
“It also connects South Australians through to New York City with a single stop, strengthening our bond with a key economic and AUKUS partner.
“We hope that this marks the beginning of a long-term commitment by Qantas to grow their international services out of Adelaide.”
South Australia’s Minister for Tourism and Multicultural Affairs, Zoe Bettison, added: “This new service makes travel to South Australia easier for New Zealanders, who have long been a key source of tourism for our State.
“New Zealand is presently the equal second biggest source market for visitation to South Australia – behind only the UK and equal with China.
“Tourism expenditure from New Zealand grew by 29% in the last year, with 48,000 visitors coming to South Australia in 2024.
“We invite our friends across the ditch to come and experience the simple pleasures of South Australia – to taste our premium food and wine, experience our natural beauty, and enjoy a plethora of events and festivals across the calendar,” she said.