URGENT UPDATE: The Canberra to Sydney flight route has been confirmed as the most unreliable in Australia, with a staggering 10% of flights cancelled in July 2023. This shocking statistic highlights a growing crisis for travelers relying on this key connection.
New data from the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics shows that Qantas led the cancellations, axing approximately 14% of its 429 scheduled flights. Meanwhile, Virgin Australia cancelled 6% of its 263 flights on the same route. This month’s cancellation rate marks an improvement from June’s 12%, but significantly worsens from last year’s 7%.
The return flight from Sydney to Canberra also faced significant disruptions, with a cancellation rate of 9%. Other routes, such as Sydney-Melbourne and Mackay-Brisbane, were not far behind, experiencing around 7% cancellations.
Opposition Transport spokeswoman Bridget McKenzie described the cancellation rate as “unreasonably high,” urging Qantas to enhance its reliability. She stressed that the route is currently used to “plug holes” in the airline’s network, calling for the government to expedite its new slot management scheme for Sydney Airport.
In a letter directed to Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson, ACT Senator Katy Gallagher expressed her concerns regarding the ongoing unreliability of flights into and out of Canberra. She highlighted the financial burden on residents, citing a recent economy flight she took that cost $634 one way. “For around 20 weeks of the year, Canberrans would find it nearly impossible to afford trips to see family, friends, and travel for business,” she stated.
The overall on-time performance across Australia hit a new low in July, with only 73% of flights arriving on time and 74% departing as scheduled. In comparison, the long-term averages stand at 81% and 82%, respectively. For the Canberra to Sydney route, only 77% of flights arrived on time, with 78% departing on schedule.
While Qantas struggled with on-time performance, Virgin Australia managed a more favorable rate, with 86% of its flights arriving on time and 87% departing punctually.
As the travel crisis unfolds, officials are urging immediate action to address the growing number of cancellations impacting travelers. The government’s response to the slot management scheme will be crucial in improving service reliability in the coming months.
What to watch next: Stakeholders and residents alike are awaiting the government’s decision on the slot management scheme as it could significantly influence flight reliability moving forward. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
