Qantas has announced a major Boeing 737 cabin upgrade programme as part of the fleet renewal that is already underway. The upgrade means that the Australian flag carrier will introduce a next-generation inflight experience across more domestic and short-haul international flights.
A full cabin refit will be provided to 42 of the airline’s Boeing 737 aircraft. It means new seating in Business and Economy class cabins and larger overhead bins with up to 50 per cent more space for carry-on baggage. Fast and free Wi-Fi will also be available.
The upgrade program will deliver a modern ‘as-new’ cabin and align the customer experience with the airline’s new domestic fleet. The 737 aircraft being upgraded are scheduled to leave the Qantas fleet towards the end of the renewal programme.
The first refurbished aircraft is expected to start flying in 2027. The 737s operate across the airline’s domestic network, trans-Tasman routes and to short-haul international destinations including Bali, Fiji and Vanuatu.
The cabin upgrades are a part of Qantas’s domestic fleet investment that will see the new Airbus A321XLR progressively replace the 737s over the next decade. More of the smaller A220s will also join the fleet, adding to the five currently in operation.
Qantas will be one of the world’s first airlines to operate the A321XLR. Its first aircraft entered final assembly in November, has now been painted in Qantas livery and is scheduled to arrive in June.
The A321XLR offers more comfortable Economy seats and a 66% increase in Business seats. Compared with aircraft currently flying it offers a quieter flight, a spacious cabin, extra-large overhead lockers, and fast and free Wi-Fi.
Beginning this year, 10 Airbus A330-200s will have significant cabin upgrade, including the installation of new Project Sunrise Economy seats. They will have 20% larger entertainment screens, USB-C fast charging and Bluetooth audio connectivity. Curtains and carpets will be replaced and new mood lighting will be introduced.
Jetstar’s multimillion-dollar Boeing 787 upgrade programme includes overhauling Economy and Business class cabins with new seats and Wi-Fi connectivity from 2026. In response to growing Premium demand, the Business class offering will more than double, increasing from 21 seats to 44.
Vanessa Hudson, CEO of Qantas Group, said: “This investment in cabins will also support our people, who are dedicated to providing the best inflight experience to our customers.”
