Qantas has announced a significant expansion of its Perth-Rome service for 2026, nearly doubling its capacity to meet growing demand. The airline will extend its seasonal service by eight weeks, operating from May 3 to October 23, and increase the frequency of flights from three to four per week during peak season. This adjustment adds over 40 additional services and approximately 10,000 seats to the route.
The extended service will capture the busy travel periods of late spring and early autumn, providing travelers with more options to explore Rome and beyond. Qantas first launched its nonstop flights from Perth to Rome in 2022, marking a historic milestone as the first nonstop connection between Australia and continental Europe. Since then, the service has successfully transported over 70,000 passengers, offering Australians the fastest route to Italy and facilitating easier access for Italians and Europeans to visit Australia.
Enhancing Connectivity and Customer Experience
Qantas operates several international routes from Perth, including flights to London, Paris, Rome, and Singapore. Looking ahead, the airline plans to introduce new nonstop services to Johannesburg and Auckland starting in December 2025. According to Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace, the nonstop flight to Rome has gained immense popularity among passengers. “Customers tell us they love being able to depart Perth in the evening and wake up in Rome,” Wallace noted.
He emphasized that more than half of the passengers on the Rome flights originate from eastern Australia. The timing of these flights is designed to connect seamlessly with domestic services, enhancing accessibility for travelers across the country. “Almost doubling our capacity means even more Australians can experience our nonstop European routes, which have some of the highest customer satisfaction scores on our international network,” Wallace added.
Government Support and Economic Impact
The expansion of the Perth-Rome service has received strong support from local government officials. Roger Cook, the Premier of Western Australia, highlighted the importance of connecting Perth and the wider region with direct flights. “From eager tourists to Western Australians with family ties to Italy, the flights have meant thousands have stepped off at Perth Airport then set foot in the eternal city,” Cook stated. He noted that the success of the service reflects Qantas’ confidence and contributes to the diversification of Western Australia’s economy.
Reece Whitby, the Minister for Tourism in Western Australia, reiterated this sentiment, calling the expansion a “major win” for the region. He emphasized that the additional flights and extended operating season would reinforce Western Australia’s status as Australia’s gateway to Europe. “We’re committed to diversifying our economy through tourism, and securing additional direct flights will make it even easier for Italian visitors to come and explore our wonderful State,” Whitby remarked.
The increased frequency on the Perth-Rome route, effective from 27 June 2026 to 26 September 2026, is subject to government and regulatory approval. As Qantas prepares for its busiest year yet, the airline is poised to offer nearly 300,000 seats connecting Perth with major European capitals, further enhancing its international presence.
