Qantas is reducing domestic capacity by five percent across both Qantas and Jetstar schedules, citing ongoing Middle East conflict and rising fuel costs. Some routes are not just reduced but suspended entirely.
The Routes Affected
At least four routes are suspended:
- Melbourne to Hamilton Island,
- Sydney to Busselton,
- Melbourne to Coffs Harbour, and
- Darwin to the Gold Coast.
Flights between capital cities on larger aircraft are also being reduced as part of the broader capacity cut.
Where the Aircraft Are Going
The larger aircraft being pulled from domestic routes are being redeployed to European services. That matters because it means the capacity is unlikely to return to these domestic routes quickly. Do not assume things will normalise in the short term.
What to Do if You Have an Existing Booking
Check your email. Qantas should notify affected passengers directly and offer either to rebook on an alternative service or a full refund. If you have not received anything and your route is on the list, contact Qantas directly rather than waiting.
What To Do If You Are Planning Travel
Check availability now. With reduced capacity across certain routes, remaining seats on alternative services may fill quickly. The sooner you look at your options the better position you will be in.
Share this with anyone you know travelling to Hamilton Island, Busselton, Coffs Harbour or the Gold Coast in the coming months.
Have you been affected by these route changes? Comment below.