Qantas has revealed plans to invest in a significant cabin upgrade for 42 of its Boeing 737 aircraft, aimed at enhancing the customer experience on its domestic and short-haul international flights. This renovation will include new Business and Economy class seats, expanded overhead compartments, and a full cabin refresh featuring updated carpets, sidewalls, and mood lighting. Additionally, the aircraft will maintain their fast and free Wi-Fi services during the renovation process.
The upgraded Boeing 737s will provide a more modern, almost new environment that aligns with the airline’s ongoing fleet renewal efforts. The first upgraded aircraft is expected to enter service in 2027.
Long-Term Fleet Strategy
This upgrade is part of Qantas’ broader strategy to improve its domestic fleet. Over the next decade, the airline will replace these Boeing 737s with new Airbus A321XLRs while expanding its fleet of Airbus A220s. The first A321XLR is scheduled to arrive in June 2025, with four expected to be in service by the end of the year. These new aircraft will offer improved features, such as larger Business class capacity, quieter cabins, and more spacious interiors.
CEO’s Vision
Vanessa Hudson, CEO of Qantas, emphasized that these upgrades are part of the airline’s extensive fleet renewal program, the largest in its history. She stated, “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.”
READ MORE: A Little-Known Chinese Company Disrupts Global Pharma with Lung Cancer Drug
Hudson also noted that previous cabin upgrades had led to positive customer feedback, with designs and technologies that align with passenger preferences. This investment also ensures that Qantas’ staff can continue to provide the best inflight experience possible.
Additional Fleet Improvements
Qantas is also investing in a multimillion-dollar upgrade for its Jetstar 787 fleet, set to begin in 2026, which will include new seating and Wi-Fi connectivity. Furthermore, the airline is enhancing ten of its A330-200 aircraft starting this year with new “Project Sunrise” Economy seats, larger entertainment screens, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Qantas has already placed firm orders for over 100 new aircraft, with more than 80 existing planes slated for upgrades, ensuring the airline continues to provide a state-of-the-art flying experience for its customers.
