The Gulf carrier was set to replace its 787-9s and 777-300ERs on the Sydney-Abu Dhabi route with A350-1000s on 31 January following their introduction in October, but has moved the timetable up citing popular demand. The aircraft features 44 business suites and 327 economy seats.

Passengers with only carry-on baggage are now able to proceed directly from the airport’s skywalk into the new mezzanine screening area, which will have 10 lanes and is planned to be fully open to all passengers by Christmas.

Around 3,600 Australian Services Union (ASU) members, half of whom work in Qantas customer service at airports and lounges, will receive a minimum 5 per cent first-year wage increase, as well as backpay to 1 July, roster protections, and the ability to cash out annual leave.

The state will invest an extra $122 million into the subsidies to extend them to June 2031; however, under the revised plan to take effect from 1 July next year, passengers will pay more for “high-demand” flights such as those booked on school or public holidays, or at the last minute.