URGENT UPDATE: Qantas has just announced a significant boost to its fleet amid soaring profits, ordering an additional 20 Airbus A321XLR jets. The announcement follows a remarkable financial year, with the airline reporting a net profit of $1.6 billion for the year ending June 30, 2023, marking a 28.3 percent increase from the previous year.
The airline’s underlying pre-tax profit also rose impressively by 15 percent to $2.4 billion, driven by a surge in international operations and robust demand in domestic travel. Qantas’ revenue climbed 8.6 percent to $23.8 billion, underscoring its strong recovery post-pandemic.
The newly ordered Airbus jets are set to start arriving in 2028, increasing Qantas’ total order for this next-generation aircraft to 48. With a range of 8,700 km, the A321XLRs are expected to revolutionize the airline’s route options, enabling flights to previously unviable destinations across Southeast Asia and the Pacific islands.
Qantas plans to roll out its first two A321XLRs, configured for domestic and short-haul international travel, by mid-September on key routes including Sydney-Melbourne and Sydney-Perth. CEO Vanessa Hudson stated,
“Investing in new aircraft is one of the most significant ways that we can provide our customers with a better flying experience and these billion-dollar investments are possible because of our continued strong financial performance.”
In another positive development for shareholders, Qantas will distribute a final dividend of 16.5 cents per share alongside a special dividend of 9.9 cents per share, reflecting the airline’s solid financial footing.
This latest strategic move by Qantas highlights its commitment to enhancing customer experience and expanding its operational capabilities, as the airline continues to capitalize on a booming travel market. With the aviation sector rebounding strongly, all eyes will be on Qantas as it prepares to welcome its new aircraft and expand its network.
Stay tuned for further updates on Qantas’ fleet expansion and financial performance as developments unfold.
