Qantas 787

[Christopher Campbell]

This thread will be dedicated the most likely ordered Boeing 787-9s and any other variants Qantas may order in the future.

Qantas pilot pay deal allowing 787s agreed by pilots!

From SBS news
Qantas' long-haul pilots have backed a planned 18-month pay freeze as part of a wages deal that moves the airline closer to buying more Dreamliners.
Source: AAP
Qantas is closer to buying a fleet of Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft after most of its long-haul pilots agreed to an 18-month pay freeze as part of a new wage deal.
The deal, which was backed by 82 per cent of 1,165 pilots who voted in an electronic ballot, includes annual three per cent pay increases once the pay freeze lifts.
The airline's ability to strike new pay deals and wage freezes with its staff is understood to be a key factor behind whether Qantas finally decides whether to buy the new fleet of Dreamliners later this year.
"The new agreement helps build the case for future investment in new aircraft for Qantas International," a Qantas spokesman said in a statement

[Greg McDonald]

Bit premature......

[Christopher Campbell]

I hardly think so?

[Christopher Campbell]

'After all this is the light approaching finally at the end of the dark long tunnel'

[Greg Hyde]

How long would QF take to bring the B787 into service ?

Considering JQ has already down the the heavy lifting.

[MarkR]

A couple of years regardless, the first slot they have is late 2017.

[Christopher Campbell]

So are the first 5 787-9s if they decide to take them delivery from 1H FY18

[Christopher Campbell]

But if they can they may want to have more the 5 in the FY18 through purchase rights if they available.

[Kent Broadhead]

"Mr Joyce indicated Qantas could take delivery of new Boeing 787-9 aircraft as early as 2017 to help replace its ageing fleet of 747s. "We are working through the route economics and the network economics," he said, adding Qantas had recently reexamined the rival business case for Airbus A350s but decided the Boeing product was best for its needs."

http://www.smh.com.au/business/aviation/qantas-airways-shifting-capacity-to-east-coast-to-take-advantage-of-tourism-rise-20150803-giqtxl.html

[Christopher Campbell]

I assume Qantas will select the GEnx engines for their 787s like Jetstar?

[Rowan McKeever]

Hate to be the one stirring the pot, but a Boeing owned and operated BBJ was spotted in SYD today...

http://www.facebook.com/groups/116744805153552/?fref=ts

Just sayin' :P

[Oliver Gigacz]

Looks like a private Facebook group Rowan.

[MarkR]

Four in FY2018 and four in FY2019

http://www.asx.com.au/asxpdf/20150820/pdf/430mz48490snx1.pdf

[Christopher Campbell]

Qantas will enter a new era of global opportunities, fuel efficiency and passenger comfort when the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner joins the Qantas International fleet from 2017.
The national carrier will acquire eight B787-9s to gradually replace five of its older Boeing 747s on Qantas International routes and open up a range of potential new city pairs. Four B787-9s will arrive in financial year 2018 and four will arrive in financial year 2019. This will leave the Qantas Group with its six youngest reconfigured B747s.
Announcing the decision after a rigorous assessment process, Qantas confirmed it had met the strict conditions for re-investment in a new long haul fleet type:
A return to strong profitability for Qantas International in financial year 2015, with the business reporting underlying Earnings Before Interest and Tax of $267 million – a turnaround of $764 million compared with financial year 2016 – and Return On Invested Capital above its cost of capital.
Net debt reduction of $1.1 billion since financial year 2013.
A competitive business case, including a new agreement with Qantas’ long-haul
pilots. This agreement incorporates a 30 per cent productivity increase.
Qantas will retain 15 further options and 30 purchase rights for additional B787s, with significant flexibility over the timing of delivery should they be exercised.
Qantas will work with its team of internal experts and external designers to develop worldleading cabin interiors for the new Dreamliner. This will add to the aircraft’s unique features, including improved cabin pressure, larger windows and technology to reduce turbulence.
Chief executive Alan Joyce said the Dreamliner’s advantages for Qantas’ people and customers were hugely exciting.
“This milestone acquisition marks the scale of our turnaround and looks ahead to a new era for our iconic international airline,” Mr Joyce said.
“We’re halfway through the biggest and fastest transformation in our history. Qantas is rapidly growing fitter, stronger, and smarter. These aircraft are a fitting emblem of that evolution – they show that we are revitalised and here for the long haul.
“We have looked closely at every aspect of the Dreamliner and it’s the right aircraft for Qantas’ future.
“The key reason we chose this particular aircraft is its incredible efficiency. Its new technology will reduce fuel burn, cut heavy maintenance requirements and open up new destinations around the globe.
“Because the 787 is smaller than the jumbos it will gradually replace, it gives us the flexibility of having more aircraft without significantly changing our overall capacity.
“Every Qantas aircraft is a symbol of Australia and these aircraft will represent Australian excellence and ambition on a global scale.”
The acquisition of B787s for Qantas International is contained within Qantas’ existing capital expenditure guidance.

[MarkR]

So the 744s have two to three years left in them before they go leaving just the ERs.

[Steve S... 2]

Hi...

So the five x 744's to be retired after the 789's arrive, must be the following??

OEB
OJM
OJS
OJT
OJU

Is that correct?

Geez how old would that make OJM in 2017 then? 26?

[Christopher Campbell]

http://www.qantas.com.au/infodetail/about/investors/2015InvestorPresentationSupplementary.pdf

On page 15 it says that 1 747 is being retired in FY16. So that would make 10 747s then obviously the 8 787s replace 5 older 747s which leaves 5 not 6. Am i missing something?

[MarkR]

I think they are counting the 1 in the five total, retiring an ER would be a bit premature unless they know something about the oil price in two years time. Logic suggests it's OJM that will go soon.

[Zac M]

I'd be more inclined to say OEB will go first, but one would think it will all be about the same time anyway....

[MarkR]

I suspect OEB has a few more years on the Captains Choice contract to serve.

[Grahame Hutchison]

Qantas has confirmed an order for 8 B787-9 Dreamliners, to enter service in 2017, replacing 5 Boeing 747s.

Four aircraft will be delivered in 2107-2018 (FY), and four in 2018-2019 (FY).

Alan Joyce mentioned Melbourne-Dallas as a possible new QF Dreamliner route, and they will be looking at other International opportunities.

[Tom Cleary]

This is great news!
I wonder what QANTAS are going to name these birds. I would like them to be named after Australian capital cities like the old 744's were. I'm assuming their registration will either be VH-OGx, VH-EAx or VH-OJx.

So for the 744 retirements, it's a big shame that the younger Rolls-Royces are going too. Well the 787's are being delivered in two years so they will be quite old by the time they are withdrawn. I originally thought they were going to get rid of two of the ERs but I assume that the other two airframes of the five Qantas said were retiring are OJM and OEB.

[Christopher Campbell]

with OJM or OEB retiring this financial 2015/16

[Mick F]

Why would they get rid of the ER's? They're not that old.

[Christopher Campbell]

So technically the 8 787-9s are replacing 4 B747s with growth because they only need 10 to maintain the current network with OJM be retired this Financial Year.

[Christopher Campbell]

Emirates, Qantas mapping out next stage of partnership


Dubai: The expansion of the Emirates-Qantas partnership over the next five years includes Emirates looking at launching flights to secondary Australian cities and Qantas considering flying to continental Europe via Dubai, using Boeing 787s.
Emirates and Qantas started the historic revenue partnership in 2013 with the Australian carrier dropping a 17-year relationship with British Airways to move its London-bound hub from Singapore, to Dubai.
Emirates flies to Australia’s four major hubs: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth along with Adelaide, and Qantas flies from Sydney and Melbourne to London via Dubai.
Emirates airline President Tim Clark told reporters in Dubai on Monday that he met with Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce last week and the two airlines agreed to “map the way forward over the next three [to] five years.”
“Sydney, Melbourne and Perth are going to be primary areas,” Clark said.
Asked if Emirates could fly to secondary cities in Australia, Clark said: “Darwin, Cairns, Broome, Alice Springs. Look, there are lots [of possibilities].”

http://m.gulfnews.com/business/aviation/emirates-qantas-mapping-out-next-stage-of-partnership-1.1595486

http://www.ausbt.com.au/qantas-boeing-787s-could-fly-from-dubai-to-european-cities?utm_source=internal&utm_medium=flipper&utm_campaign=home-flipper

[Dennis McLean]

There is a lot of talk here about another 744 leaving the fleet in the 15/16 year. I think you will find that although OJI did its lasts flights in June including the ferry flight to its grave, it did not actually leave the fleet till JULY, so that is the 744 that went in 15/16. At the moment it is actually impossible for QF to do all its 744 services without 11 aircraft, BNE/LAX 2, SYD/LAX/JFK 2, MEL/LAX 1, SYD/HKG 1, SYD/NRT & SYD/JNB 3, SYD/SCL 1 plus Saturday. Then we have SYD/YVR from December 6 days. 5 days of 744 are available when HKG goes to a 380 on 14567 from 10 December.

[MarkR]

There is a lot of talk here about another 744 leaving the fleet in the 15/16 year. I think you will find that although OJI did its lasts flights in June including the ferry flight to its grave, it did not actually leave the fleet till JULY, so that is the 744 that went in 15/16.

Agree, I mentioned that in another thread a few weeks back. Nothing to go for a while on the 744 front.

[Christopher Campbell]

I agree currently they can't use retire any more 747s at the moment. However if they use 2-3 more A332 that were from Jetstar to replace the SYD-HKG 747 and convert the SYD-HND to only use 1 aircraft and then convert to A332 then another 2 at least can be retired. Surely this is possible?

[Christopher Campbell]

And VH-OJI arrived in MHV on the 28th of June 2015, not in FY16

[Rowan McKeever]

convert the SYD-HND to only use 1 aircraft

That's not going to happen. There are restrictions on the time of day during which Australian carriers can be granted slots at HND (officially announced as 0000-0605 but that's obviously changed as QF departs at 2200) and there is little in the way of public transport available at HND if QF were to arrive and depart without sitting around all day. Other timings would also not be particularly business-friendly, and that's the market QF is after.

[Dave Dale]

I agree currently they can't use retire any more 747s at the moment. However if they use 2-3 more A332 that were from Jetstar to replace the SYD-HKG 747 and convert the SYD-HND to only use 1 aircraft and then convert to A332 then another 2 at least can be retired. Surely this is possible?

Surely this hypothetical you mean? There are reasons why the schedule is the way it is. 747s to Hong Kong are used for premium passengers. The route is business heavy and knocking it down to an A330 just won't do.

[Dave Dale]

And VH-OJI arrived in MHV on the 28th of June 2015, not in FY16

Did you miss the point here? OJI is the aircraft meant to retire for the 15/16 year, so it retired slightly earlier.

[Christopher Campbell]

Yes indeed hyperthetical

[Andrew P]

http://www.traveller.com.au/qantas-plans-nonstop-flights-from-perth-to-london-gk6yqc

time will tell

[Christopher Campbell]

With the 6 747ER what would be best. Hang on to them and replace them with the B777X like FY2021-2022 or replace them with 787-9s say a year earlier?

[Martin Buzzell]

With the 6 747ER what would be best. Hang on to them and replace them with the B777X like FY2021-2022 or replace them with 787-9s say a year earlier?

I though the 787 order was for the replacement of the ER's.

[Dennis McLean]

NO not the ER's but to replace OJM, OJS, OJT, OJU and OEB

[Christopher Campbell]

What could be the 747 first routes to which the 8 787s will replace and increase services on those routes? Will Qantas probably order the next lot of 787-9s next year to start new destinations like European destinations through Dubai and/or replace the 747ERs?

[Yusef D]

Bne-Lax once the shorter proving/famil flights are done...

[Yusef D]

...and on to JFK. 744 not needed on that hop.

[Martin Buzzell]

NO not the ER's but to replace OJM, OJS, OJT, OJU and OEB

So, where are the other three they've ordered going?

[Zac M]

Fleet growth

[Dennis McLean]

I did the JFKJ/LAX leg in June last year and the aircraft was "pretty full". I was in Business Class which was full and premium Economy only had 2 spare seats. Economy had a few vacant seats but I estimate that there were well over 300 on the flight, an ER, OEI. Remember that the 5 x 744's to go are OEB and OJM with 353 seats = 706 and OJS, T & U with 364 seats = 1092, total 1798. Someone on the site here said that the 789's will be about 250 seats = 2000. Where is the availability for Expansion, an extra 202 seats not even 1 x 789??????????? Unless QF will put more seats in then we might have 1 extra 789 based on seat numbers.
As I have said before QF is running on empty with fleet numbers in the A 380's and 744's, nothing spare really.

[MarkR]

The LAX/JFK tag flights average 300+ per flight, making QF the number 6 airline for domestic pax at LAX.

[Anthony Collins]

I wonder what registration block will be used for the new 787s. Hopefully a historic selection, VH-OG- or VH-TJ- perhaps. That's if QF have retained them.

[Yusef D]

If they were looking to give a nod to Qantas heritage the VH-EA series last worn by 767-200s would be ideal. Dates to Empire Airways days....

[Ash W]

Most now occupied by private owners, so would cost a motza to buy them back off the owners. Don't think CASA allows sitting on old regos these days.

[Yusef D]

Ah. that would by why it's harder/impossible to get an A-Z block of 26 regos these days. I still wince when I hear a student pilot in a Charlie Zulu registered light aircraft.

[Christopher Campbell]

Could we see more 787-9s orders announced on the 23rd Feb?

[Joe Frampton]

I did the JFKJ/LAX leg in June last year and the aircraft was "pretty full". I was in Business Class which was full and premium Economy only had 2 spare seats. Economy had a few vacant seats but I estimate that there were well over 300 on the flight, an ER, OEI. Remember that the 5 x 744's to go are OEB and OJM with 353 seats = 706 and OJS, T & U with 364 seats = 1092, total 1798. Someone on the site here said that the 789's will be about 250 seats = 2000. Where is the availability for Expansion, an extra 202 seats not even 1 x 789??????????? Unless QF will put more seats in then we might have 1 extra 789 based on seat numbers.
As I have said before QF is running on empty with fleet numbers in the A 380's and 744's, nothing spare really.

New aircraft are nice (and necessary) for Qantas so forgive my whinge, but the 744 from BNE to LAX is pretty often packed to the rafters too, so replacing a 744 with a 787 on this run is quite a downsize. I guess that's the way it goes, and people will find another way if they can't squeeze on Qantas, like maybe the new AC 787 daily service to Vancouver for example. Qantas will be caring and sharing their passengers to other services (and airlines!)

[Brad Myer]

QF have talked about having both BNE-LAX and BNE-DFW using the B789s to solve the capacity short fall.

[Christopher Campbell]

Qantas CEO promises "very luxurious" Boeing 787 configuration
By David Flynn

Qantas CEO Alan Joyce has described the airlines' forthcoming Boeing 787-9 as being blessed with "a very luxurious configuration" to match the very long-range routes which the Dreamliner will fly.
Those non-stop routes could include Sydney-Chicago, Melbourne-Dallas, Brisbane-Dallas and even Perth-London, Joyce said, after the first of the red-tailed Boeings join the Qantas fleet from late 2017.

"They're all on the list and it depends on the support we get from the various governments to what network we actually settle on" Joyce told media on the sidelines of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) conference in Dublin this week.
"We're just starting to have a dialog with the airports."
So what will Qantas' long-legged Boeing 787 look like on the inside?
"You'll see a very luxurious configuration, and it's there for the distances that were flying" Joyce expanded.
"There will be a big business class and a big premium economy cabin", and while the economy seats will be nine-across in a 3-3-3 arrangement, Joyce promises "we will be giving some very good seat pitch for economy seats given the the lengths we’ll be flying."

According to one internal Qantas Boeing 787-9 configuration plan sighted by Australian Business Traveller the Dreamliners could see 42 seats in business class, 28 in premium economy and just 165 in economy.
That total of 235 seats is definitely on the comfortable side when compared to other airlines and supports claims of generous leg room in economy rather than a standard and squeezy 31 inches of Qantas' Airbus A380s as well as the Boeing 747s which the Dreamliner will replace.

In fact, with almost half the aircraft's seat count given over to business class and premium economy, Gareth Evans – chief of Qantas’ international arm – describes the layout as being "a premium configuration" which also has implications for other parts of the plane's design.
For example, the kitchen galleys have to support serving the more extensive food and drink menus to a relatively large number of premium customers "to have the level of catering needed for long-haul sectors" Evans explains.
"So we're making sure the aircraft is being configured and capable of flying those very long haul roues. For example, Melbourne-Dallas is actually 20 nautical miles longer than Perth-London."

Evans says that Qantas is now finalising "the product specification and exact seating arrangement" for the Boeing 787, and working with Irish seat manufacturer Thompson Aero "on a number of the products for this aircraft."
Thompson created the airline's highly-regarded Airbus A330 Business Suite (below) and will be refining the design for the Qantas Dreamliners based on customer feedback since the seat debuted in early 2015.

http://www.ausbt.com.au/qantas-ceo-promises-very-luxurious-boeing-787-configuration

http://www.ausbt.com.au/is-this-qantas-boeing-787-economy-seat?utm_source=internal&utm_medium=flipper&utm_campaign=home-flipper#

Also

Speaking on the sidelines of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) annual general meeting in Dublin on Thursday, Joyce talked up Qantas’s strong position on not just China but the rest of Asia.

From the second half of next year, Qantas will begin receiving the first of eight new Boeing 787-9 aircraft that could be deployed on existing and new routes. Mr Joyce said Qantas would begin talks with airports and governments about incentives available to help open non-stop routes such as Sydney-Chicago, Melbourne-Dallas, Brisbane-Dallas and Perth-London.

He said the interior of the aircraft would feature large business and premium economy class sections as well as generous legroom in economy class to ensure it had the range to be able to fly such long routes.

Qantas is also in talks with Boeing about the design of the 777-8X aircraft, which could have enough range for Sydney-New York. "There is a bit of tweaking to the aircraft needed to get it there," Mr Joyce said. But he added no decision had yet been made on whether Qantas would ultimately purchase the aircraft.

http://m.smh.com.au/business/aviation/qantas-unfazed-by-virgin-australias-hna-deal-alan-joyce-20160602-gpa1xa.html

[C Patters]

Does anyone know if the Rego's have been allocated for the 787-9's?

[MarkR]

I doubt it, marks can only be reserved for 12 months and cannot be extended.

[Grahame Hutchison]

The registration on the Boeing B789 Model presented to Qantas by Boeing at the Retro Roo II launch was VH-QAN (probably symbolic).

This registration does not appear on the Australian Register, and also does not appear on the list of available Marks - not sure what that means (are the QA's reserved ?)

http://www.16right.com/Aircraft-Images/displayimage.php?image=VH-VXQ D300-20151116-087.jpg

[Greg Hyde]

The VH-OGA-OGV block (ex. QF B763) hasn't been reused.

[Steve S... 2]

I was going to say the same thing - the VH-OG* block is available.

[Neil L]

The original allocation that was given not long after they were ordered was in the range VH-XZA to VH-XZN for the first 15 B787-8's.

This obviously no longer applicable as VH-XZA etc went to the B737-838's

First c/n was 36202 and first delivery due July 2009.
All aircraft were allocated various c/n's that have now changed.

Saw the original QF document of the time.

[Yusef D]

If it's a luxurious config it's not 3-3-3.

I'd like to see the VH-EA... rego marks used. Some history to them and not just the 762s.

[Christopher Campbell]

What choice do you think Qantas has when every airline is using 3-3-3 in economy. The Cozysuite looks like it will be used which will make it the best 787 economy with at least 18 inch seats.

[Yusef D]

Not every airline, but very nearly. Pity. Like a 10-abreast 777 it's not good for long haul.

[Christopher Campbell]

Indeed. The B777X will solve this problem providing 18inch seats in a 10 abreast configuration.

[Christopher Campbell]

What's the chances of Qantas ordering more 787-9s later this year when they announce the new routes. Ausbt said they are tipped to firm up more orders this year. Comment?

[Rowan McKeever]

Seems like a pretty good chance. I've heard some very convincing information which, if it proves true, would account for 3-4 aircraft out of the 8 currently on firm order.

[Christopher Campbell]

you mean 3-4 aircraft will be used to launch new routes out of the first 8 787s ordered?

[Rowan McKeever]

If what I've been told is correct, and if it comes off, then yes... something like that. It would take 3, definitely.

[Christopher Campbell]

I guess Alan must be ordering more 787s beyond the 8 announced so they can launch more than one new route. Another 10-12 would open up another 3-4 routes.

[Rowan McKeever]

Or, another 10 or 12 could open 10 or 12 new routes. Depends what the routes were, in terms of sector times, turnarounds, slots, etc.

[Christopher Campbell]

Oh ok, yeah I guess your right given all the variability we you mentioned depending on the routes.

[Christopher Campbell]

Or, another 10 or 12 could open 10 or 12 new routes. Depends what the routes were, in terms of sector times, turnarounds, slots, etc.

Do you believe QF will firm more 787 orders this year like ausbt is predicting?

[James Smith]

Maybe there will be an announcement at the QANTAS AGM on Friday 28 August, 2016 as to the routes their 787-9s will be used on, either existing or new routes and any follow on orders.

It must be getting close to being just over 12 months before the first 787-9 is delivered to QANTAS. I recall that the first delivery will be in the 4th quarter of 2017. Is this correct?

[Christopher Campbell]

The AGM is the 10th of October. Do you mean the FY results day August 24. Yes the first 787 will fly in October 2017.

[Greg Hyde]

Qantas buys new 787-9 flight simulator

Qantas says it will install a new Boeing 787-9 flight simulator at its Sydney Mascot base as the airline gears up for the arrival of the next generation aircraft in 2017.
The $23 million investment in the new flight simulator, which will be used for new and recurrent training, and other training equipment was part of a new strategic partnership with the NSW government to “support efforts to develop aviation and related industries in and around Sydney Airport and at the future Western Sydney Airport”, Qantas said on Monday.

“The Dreamliner represents a new chapter for Qantas and we are delighted to announce that a new state-of-the-art flight simulator will be housed at our Mascot training centre,” Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce said in a statement.
“Our flight training centre operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week and is overseen by a dedicated team of trainers and check captains who help ensure that Qantas pilots are among the best in the world.

“And from the end of next year, the centre will be used to train a new generation of Qantas pilots on the next generation aircraft.”

The airline group’s low-cost unit Jetstar already has a 787 simulator in Melbourne.
Qantas has ordered eight 787-9s, which will be powered by GEnx-1B engines, which also power Jetstar’s 787-8.

Pilots flying other Boeing aircraft with the rank of captain can transition to the 787 with about 44 hours of training in the simulator, Qantas said.
The oneworld alliance member also planned to recruit 170 pilots to support its Dreamliner fleet.

The first 787-9 is due to arrive in October 2017, Qantas International chief executive Gareth Evans told the CAPA – Centre for Aviation Australia Pacific Aviation summit in Brisbane on August 4.

http://australianaviation.com.au/2016/08/qantas-buys-new-787-9-flight-simulator/

[Adrian B]

Is the Jetstar 787 sim on the old Ansett Sim Centre near Tulla?

[MarkR]

Is the Jetstar 787 sim on the old Ansett Sim Centre near Tulla?

No, it's located in the Qantas crew training base at Airport West, the "old" Ansett sim centre is not old and in fact very much operational with 13 simulators inc A320 down to B200 and SF340

[Christopher Campbell]

With 4 787s being delivered for two (FY) years. Is realistic to assume that QF will have 2 delivered by the end of next year/every six months or could it be more. Is delivery schedules more variable than that.

[Dave Dale]

With 4 787s being delivered for two (FY) years. Is realistic to assume that QF will have 2 delivered by the end of next year/every six months or could it be more. Is delivery schedules more variable than that.

Chris, I read this blog regularly and I note you ask the same questions in so many different ways... It gets repetitive and bogs down the thread. It could just be me?

Perhaps you could do like the rest of us do and wait for Qantas to make an announcement.

[Kent Broadhead]

No, it's located in the Qantas crew training base at Airport West, the "old" Ansett sim centre is not old and in fact very much operational with 13 simulators inc A320 down to B200 and SF340

Very OT in a QF thread, but nice to see the Ansett name and logo still around http://www.ansettaviationtraining.com/

Would there be significant difference between the 788 and 789 simulators? I would have thought largely programming, with this new one a capacity increase.

[lloyd fox]

From the CAPA summit in BNE last week.

Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce was the opening keynote speaker on the second day of the summit. In a Q&A session with CNN’s Richard Quest following the speech Mr Joyce discussed a wide range of topics including international expansion, the group’s fleet plan and partnerships.

As Mr Evans had highlighted the prior day, international expansion is planned for late 2017 following the delivery of Qantas’ first batch of 787-9s. Mr Joyce provided more detail, stating that there are “three potential networks” Qantas is now working through for its incoming Boeing 787-9 fleet.

“We’re talking to the airports and the states to make them successful,” he said. “There’s lots of alternatives about where we can deploy those aircraft, so we’re working through that and by the end of this calendar year we’ll be making an announcement about the route network for the 787s.”
infrastructure support from airports “is going to be critical” in the decision where to base the 787-9 fleet

Mr Joyce said infrastructure support from airports “is going to be critical” in the decision where to base the 787-9 fleet. Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney are all under consideration.

In Perth, the aircraft would be used to launch nonstop flights to London. “There’s opportunities to grow from Brisbane to the US,” Mr Joyce noted. “There’s potential out of Melbourne [with] the aircraft being able to fly from Melbourne to Dallas or add frequency from Melbourne to LA. Out of Sydney the aircraft could fly to places like Chicago.”

[Christopher Campbell]

Chris, I read this blog regularly and I note you ask the same questions in so many different ways... It gets repetitive and bogs down the thread. It could just be me?

Perhaps you could do like the rest of us do and wait for Qantas to make an announcement.

If you looked at my questions properly they are in no way similar. But secondly yes I'll wait till Qantas make another official announcement.

[Greg Hyde]

Very OT in a QF thread, but nice to see the Ansett name and logo still around http://www.ansettaviationtraining.com/

Would there be significant difference between the 788 and 789 simulators? I would have thought largely programming, with this new one a capacity increase.

Ken, I would of thought that it would only be programming, like load and balance, V1,V2...

Based on that can a 788 sim be upgraded to a 789 by a software change ?

[Max C]

Yep, generally the same sims with just a few 'buttons' in the back to change the config from -8 to -9.

[Yusef D]

Ha! as if there's any doubt where they'll be based. Syd based, Mel for maint.

And the 787 sims are have just subtle differences, the -9 has more flap settings than -8 for instance.

[Christopher Campbell]

Next Generation Fleet:
(http://www.qantasnewsroom.com.au/media-releases/qantas-group-fy16-results-ceo-address/)

There’s also a huge amount of preparation underway for the arrival of the Qantas 787 next year.

Our first aircraft is still about 15 months away, but I’m delighted to say that Dreamliner flights on our existing network will be on sale before Christmas.

And shortly after that, we’ll be announcing other international destinations that this state-of-the- art aircraft will fly to.

The Dreamliner doesn’t just extend our range – it also changes what’s possible for our customers.

The aircraft is full of inbuilt features to keep you comfortable on a long flight – like better air quality, less noise and more natural light.

We want to take this to the next level. And so we’re working with a range of specialists to create the best Dreamliner experience on the market – from a team of world-leading designers, including Marc Newson, to university sleep experts.

We’ll have a lot more to say between now and the first aircraft arriving – but customers should expect the best in class on every part of the Qantas Dreamliner.

Luxury suites in business class.

Economy seats with more room and better entertainment options.

And a revolutionary premium economy that is streets ahead of anything else out there.

[Christopher Campbell]

Qantas first 787 details and estimated delivery date:

Line Number: 615
Variable Number: ZB269
Assembled: Everett
Delivery: 27th September 2017

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1FH3Y2-vRUgojntPkCSJI5Pd-15rsJ1a0SFCRaT-iqgo/pub?single=true&gid=19&output=html

[Greg Hyde]

ANA took delivery of it's 50th B787 on 18 August, 2016

QF still has to wait for nearly 13 mths

[lloyd fox]

Ha! as if there's any doubt where they'll be based. Syd based, Mel for maint.

And the 787 sims are have just subtle differences, the -9 has more flap settings than -8 for instance.

I believe BNE will do the maintenance .

[Oliver Gigacz]

Qantas first 787 details and estimated delivery date:

Line Number: 615
Variable Number: ZB269
Assembled: Everett
Delivery: 27th September 2017

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1FH3Y2-vRUgojntPkCSJI5Pd-15rsJ1a0SFCRaT-iqgo/pub?single=true&gid=19&output=html

Just seven frames before the first -10.

[Terence W]

Hopefully still on topic, does anyone know if the paint scheme for the 789s has been finalised?

The big model given to Qantas by Boeing earlier this year had no flying kangaroo on the engine nacelles and no red 'winglets' painted on the wingtips (ala Virgin Atlantic's 789s).

In my humble opinion, with white wings, nacelles, and a mostly white fuselage, the 789s could arguably look a bit plain...

[Greg Hyde]

From QF source

QANTAS today confirmed that its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners will be delivered in a 42J/28W/166Y configuration.

Business Class will feature a slightly modified version of the A330 seat retaining the 1-2-1 configuration with direct aisle access for all passengers and with a moveable divider between the middle seats to make them more suitable for couples travelling together.

Economy Class will not feature the Thomson Aero Cozy Suite as had been rumoured but a Recaro seat in 3-3-3 configuration with a 12 inch touch screen and a flip down tablet holder Seat pitch will be 32″, however no mention has been made of seat width.

Details of the promised “revolutionary” Premium Economy seat have not been revealed except that it is known that these will be in a 2-3-2 configuration.

http://australianaviation.com.au/2016/10/qantas-reveals-new-livery-and-logo/

[Ryan K]

Seat width in economy to be 17.4 inches.

https://dreamliner.qantas.com/the-best-seat-in-the-sky

[Christopher Campbell]

The second 787 is on the 787 production table

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1FH3Y2-vRUgojntPkCSJI5Pd-15rsJ1a0SFCRaT-iqgo/pub?single=true&gid=19&output=html

Line Number:641
Variable Number:ZB270
Serial Number:
Assembled:Everett
Delivery:1st December 2017

[C Patters]

Looks like the rego's are yet to be confirmed unless anyone has some knowledge of this.

[Beau Chenery]

Im betting on MEL-DFW becoming a route

[oliver c]

Where would QANTAS do have the maintenance centres based for the 787's?? Jetstar's maintenance facility at YMML?

[MarkR]

Where would QANTAS do have the maintenance centres based for the 787's?? Jetstar's maintenance facility at YMML?

I wouldn't be surprised if its Brisbane that gets it in terms of both line and heavy, the A330 facility is likely to get quieter over the next few years as the fleet reduces and after all it's the only facility they have left, I don't believe Jetstar have decided on who will be doing their heavy maintenance yet either, given the first heavy is due at 12 years they have a while to work it out.

[Christopher Campbell]

http://www.ausbt.com.au/qantas-to-fly-boeing-787-non-stop-perth-london-from-early-2018

[Christopher Campbell]

How many 787s would it take to run a double daily Perth-London service?

[Grahame Hutchison]

The follow on part to this story is that QF are looking at cancelling the London A380 service from Melbourne, and originating the Perth-London B787 service in Melbourne - a bit like Air Canada's Toronto-Vancouver-Sydney service.

[Ryan N]

The follow on part to this story is that QF are looking at cancelling the London A380 service from Melbourne, and originating the Perth-London B787 service in Melbourne - a bit like Air Canada's Toronto-Vancouver-Sydney service.

So potentially we can fly domestically on the B787 to Perth without going all the way to London.

[Greg Hyde]

Just heard on radio, it will be Syd, Perth, London.

[Greg McDonald]

Thought I saw somewhere that it would be Mel - Per - Lon ?

[Dennis McLean]

WHO said anything about a "DOUBLE DAILY" PER/LHR service????? It is 1 daily from what I read and if it started in PER it would need 2 X 789, but might be a bit tight. As it appears it might start in MEL, you would be looking at 3.

[Christopher Campbell]

WHO said anything about a "DOUBLE DAILY" PER/LHR service????? It is 1 daily from what I read and if it started in PER it would need 2 X 789, but might be a bit tight. As it appears it might start in MEL, you would be looking at 3.


https://twitter.com/colinbarnett/status/807817473374363648

[Oliver Gigacz]

https://twitter.com/colinbarnett/status/807817473374363648

That means 14 direct services, 1 daily PER-LHR, 1 daily LHR-PER. It does not mean return double daily.

[Adam W]

I was at the announcement yesterday and AJ was asked whether any existing flights to LHR would be cancelled and he said no they wouldn't. He also said that Qantas still owns 4slots at Heathrow and would like to be using all 4 in the not so distant future.

[Christopher Campbell]

That means 14 direct services, 1 daily PER-LHR, 1 daily LHR-PER. It does not mean return double daily.

Oh I understand thanks

[Christopher Campbell]

Passengers flying from Melbourne to Los Angeles will be the first to experience the Qantas 787-9 Dreamliner when the inaugural international service takes-off on 15 December next year*.
The Qantas Dreamliner will carry 236 passengers in a three-class configuration and complement the daily Airbus A380 service already flying from Melbourne to Los Angeles. Operating six times per week, the Dreamliner will replace the 747 service that currently operates on this route alongside the A380.
Qantas International CEO Gareth Evans said the arrival of the Dreamliner would be a step change for the airline and for customers, both in terms of operational efficiency and passenger comfort.
“The Dreamliner is a game-changing aircraft that opens up a new era for Qantas, and it’s been designed with passenger comfort in mind,” said Mr Evans.
“The aircraft itself offers passengers larger windows, a smoother ride and better air quality to reduce jetlag.
“In Economy there’s more room and plenty of storage. In Business, our suites will offer a fully flat bed and direct aisle access. We’ll be unveiling our Premium Economy in the first quarter of next year and it will set new standards for the industry.”
Mr Evans made the announcement while visiting the Boeing Aerostructures Australia facility at Port Melbourne with Victorian Tourism Minister John Eren. The factory manufactures parts of the 787 wing, which are then shipped to the United States for the aircraft assembly.
“We’ll be working with Visit Victoria on joint marketing campaigns to highlight what Victoria and the Qantas Dreamliner have to offer,” said Mr Evans.
Today’s announcement follows Qantas confirming it will fly non-stop from Perth to London from March 2018. Travellers on the East Coast are expected to also use the service, cutting up to an hour off their total travel time.
QANTAS Press Release


The 787-9 Melbourne-Los Angeles service will operate six days a week. This takes the total number of Qantas services on the route from nine to 13 return flights per week and will give customers the convenience of a morning or afternoon departure from Melbourne on most days. As it replaces a larger, 364-seat 747 that operates twice a week, the net capacity increase is approximately 1,400 seats in total.
Fares will be on sale from Christmas Day 2016.

http://www.qantasnewsroom.com.au/media-releases/melbourne-los-angeles-announced-as-first-dreamliner-route/

[Christopher Campbell]

So is it thourght that Qantas will have 4 B787-9s by the start of the Perth-London flights?

[Christopher Campbell]

Qantas will have 3 787-9s delivered by the end of 2017.

3rd 787
Line Number: 655
Variable Number: ZB271
Assembled: Everett
Delivery:31st December 2017

The first 787 has had its delivery date pushed back a little over two weeks to the 12th October.

[C Patters]

Does anyone know if the rego's been allocated yet for the 787-9s?

[Christopher Campbell]

The inaugural December 15 B787 QF95/96 MEL-LAX flights is on sale.

The QF95 747 Monday service ends on the 23rd January and 19th July for the Wednesday service.

[Christopher Campbell]

The 4th B787-9 is scheduled to be delivered on the 22nd of February 2018.

4:
Line Number:669
Serial Number:
Variable Number:ZB272
Assembled:Everett
Delivery:22nd February 2018

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1FH3Y2-vRUgojntPkCSJI5Pd-15rsJ1a0SFCRaT-iqgo/pub?single=true&gid=19&output=html

[Rowan McKeever]

Forgive me if this has already been posted... I couldn't see it, though.

QF 789 seat map is now up on their website: http://www.qantas.com/infodetail/flying/inTheAir/ourAircraft/789-42J28PY166Y.pdf

Does look to be a little tight for galley space at doors L4/R4, but wondering if there is some additional galley cart storage nestled in near the crew rest (see the stairs near the L4/R4 galley area) with a lift to the actual galley?

Also looks like proportionally a lot of seats for J and W (3 in total) compared to Y (4 in total).

[Kent Broadhead]

I'm looking more from the passenger perspective - is that really 3 toilets (maybe 4) for W and Y for flights up to 18 hours? Unless W can also access the J toilets?

[Christopher Campbell]

Since the 4th 787 is arriving late February 2018 so they can implement the Perth-London service and Qantas plans to retire the 2 oldest 747s by mid 2018 they either must be doing some quite extensive network changes with the 747 routes before the 5th arrives in FY19 or 1 or 2 787s might be delivered earlier than expected in the 4th quarter of FY18 rather than in FY19.

[James Smith]

QANTAS has revealed that the 787-9 registrations will be in the VH-ZN* block with the first aircraft VH-ZNA.

Source: The QANTAS Source

[Jacob L]

Would have liked Qantas to have kept an old rego block, such as VH-OG* (767's) or VH-TJ* (734s).

[Greg Hyde]

QANTAS has revealed that the 787-9 registrations will be in the VH-ZN* block with the first aircraft VH-ZNA.

Source: The QANTAS Source

Thanks James

Looks like VH-ZNA will be serial 39038

The fourth a/c VH-ZND looks like line no 669 ZB272

[James Smith]

Would have liked Qantas to have kept an old rego block, such as VH-OG* (767's) or VH-TJ* (734s).

Yes I agree Jacob. Even older registration blocks such as VH-EA*, VH-EC*, VH-ED*, VH-TA*, VH-TB* would have been iconic for a new step change aircraft such as the 787-9.

It is all VH-X**, VH-Y** & VH-Z** now as other aircraft have been allocated the old blocks. I wonder when Australia will go to four digit registrations such as V-HEAA or VH-*EAA?

[MarkR]

It is all VH-X**, VH-Y** & VH-Z** now as other aircraft have been allocated the old blocks. I wonder when Australia will go to four digit registrations such as V-HEAA or VH-*EAA?

Registration marks can only be reserved for 12 months now, so I dont think Qantas had much choice in the matter. The ZX marks are now mostly AW139s with Hunter Rescue, so they are being recycled quick.

[James Smith]

I am just watching VH-TJJ flying around Sydney as Rescu 207 which is an Agusta Westland AW139 helicopter.

[Jacob L]

A lot of the TJ regos have gone to other operators unfortunately. For example TJI & TJK are now AW139 helicopters with the ANZ bank. Sad to see unfortunately

[MarkR]

The TJ series AW139 were financed by ANZ but operated by Helicorp (Toll), 8 in total looking after the southern region NSW Ambulance contract.

What's interesting is the northern ones also used the ex QF rego as I already mentioned despite being SLSA.

[Christopher Campbell]

What are the chances of QF adding an extra dedicated toilet for Business and an extra 2-3 pitch for Premium Economy? Its clear that many, many people are disappointed with these two aspects of products.

[Yusef D]

If it doesn't work out in the real world, they can change it.

[Kent Broadhead]

What are the chances of QF adding an extra dedicated toilet for Business and an extra 2-3 pitch for Premium Economy? Its clear that many, many people are disappointed with these two aspects of products.

I must say that I'd be more worried as one of the other 194 people having to share 4 bathrooms than the 40 business seats sharing 3.

But I hadn't realized PE was so measly on pitch. Some others have up to 40"

[MarkR]

I must say that I'd be more worried as one of the other 194 people having to share 4 bathrooms than the 40 business seats sharing 3.

That ratio is better than the a333, and thank goodness 717s dont do long haul with their 1 toilet for 100 odd y seats.

[Christopher Campbell]

Could there be an revealing of the next 787 routes this Friday at the investor day?

[MarkR]

Unlikely, more interested to see where the A380s will go from QF9, there is nothing currently on application with the IASC re new destinations.

[Yusef D]

you don't need to IASC approval to switch 747 to 787 (usually) nor send 787 anywhere that has unlimited traffic or not-completely-utilised traffic rights (inc China/US/SIN)

[MarkR]

Which is why I mentioned new destinations :), if you are already flying there its not a new destination.

[Mark B]

Unlikely, more interested to see where the A380s will go from QF9, there is nothing currently on application with the IASC re new destinations.

Didn't Qantas point to using them to SIN and HKG?

[Rowan McKeever]

Yes, the media release for PER-LHR says exactly that - A380 released by the change in LHR flying will be used for peak services to Asian destinations, including HKG & SIN.

Sent from my SM-G920I using Tapatalk

[Dennis McLean]

A friend of mine who is an A380 pilot told me that it is expected that the A380 will replace the 744 on the Daily QF127/128 SYD/HKG. However, the QF Schedules still show a Daily 744 well into April 2018.

[MarkR]

Yes, the media release for PER-LHR says exactly that - A380 released by the change in LHR flying will be used for peak services to Asian destinations, including HKG & SIN.

Totally missed that :eek: HKG makes sense given the competition moves and the fact it's been used before, as well as freeing up a 744 for retirement.

[James Smith]

The A380 has been used by QANTAS to HKG from SYD for 2 month over Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year 2016/17 and 2 1/2 weeks in April, 2017. It is one way to add capacity without having to obtain extra slots at slot constrained HKG. That would take care of one aircraft if daily and if the Tuesday 744 to LAX is reverted to an A380 that takes care of 2 days of one aircraft's week leaving 5 days to fly elsewhere, maybe SIN on peak days such as Friday, Saturday and Sunday?

The possible retiming of QF1/2 is critical as to whether QANTAS will need 2 1/2 or 3 aircraft per week on this service. They may decide to leave the aircraft in LHR for the day, as they used to do, to restore some timetable flexibility if technical issues arise.

Is there any chance that QANTAS would operate a daily service to and from DBX to link up with all the Emirates code share flights to Europe, Africa and the world and time it to link with QF1/2? Otherwise DBX will be reduced to just one return QF flight per day to and from LHR. Maybe a consideration for 787-9 numbers 5 & 6, although I like the ORD possibility as a groundbreaker with year round YVR a close second.

[Greg Hyde]

How the 787 will save the Qantas World.

The Qantas Boeing 787-9 will support the airline's cost reduction efforts. (Qantas)

Qantas is aiming for cost savings of $400 million a year for the three years to 2019/20 as the Boeing 787-9 replaces older 747-400s and the use of new technology and innovation supports a more efficient operation both on the ground and in the air.
The airline group spelled out the target at its investor day presentation to the financial community on Friday.

The $400 million in “gross annual benefits” would “more than offset expected annual inflation of $250 million” in the three financial years to June 30 2020, Qantas said.
“This is driven around a lot of new technology, a lot of existing changes to our businesses and how we operate them,” Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce said during the company’s investor day held at its Mascot headquarters.

http://australianaviation.com.au/2017/05/qantas-targeting-400-million-in-annual-savings-over-next-three-years/

Note: Also posted in B747 thread

[Christopher Campbell]

Qantas brings forward Boeing 787 deliveries

https://www.ausbt.com.au/qantas-brings-forward-boeing-787-deliveries#comments-13640

Qantas has brought forward the delivery of its second tranche of Boeing 787s, with all four of the Dreamliners now taking wing in the second half of 2018 to allow the launch of a second non-stop route into Europe – with Paris tipped as the front-runner.

The original timetable saw the first four red-tailed Boeing 787s flying in from late 2017 to mid-2018, with four more over the next 12 months through to mid-2019.

Qantas' revised schedule will now see the eight-strong fledging Boeing 787 fleet all in place before the end of 2018.

Qantas International CEO Gareth Evans outlined the airline's tighter timetable during the annual Qantas Investor Day 2017 held last Friday, May 5.

"We will have four aircraft by March 2018, when Perth-London starts... and then a little gap, and the remaining four aircraft come in between July and November 2018," Evans said.

"We've actually bought the last one forward by two or three months so we can get the aircraft in as fast as possible."


Evans reiterated that two Boeing 747s would be retired once the first four Dreamliners were in place, with three more jumbo jets by the end of 2018, "so five old 747s will exit the fleet."

[Christopher Campbell]

My observation:

Qantas will be using the second batch of four 787-9s due between July and November next year to retire the B747s operating BNE-LAX and SYD-SFO.

The 787s options for early to mid 2019 will then be used to connect BNE-LAX and SYD-SFO to Perth to CDG and TXL.

With 15 787 options available to be confirmed for 2019 and 2020 that will mean 8 to 7 over two years. So Qantas will probably have 23 787s by FY 2021 (mid 2020).

With 30 purchase right orders between FY2021-2025 this will also average 6 deliveries per year.

By the end of next year as I see it the only routes that will have 747 operating on them will be Sydney to Johannesburg (1), Sydney to Santiago (1), Sydney to Haneda (2), and Sydney and Melbourne to Hong Kong (1) combined with an one A380 (previously from QF9/10 and the other to start the A380 refurb)

[Greg Hyde]

New QF 787 ad.

https://www.facebook.com/Qantas/?hc_ref=PAGES_TIMELINE&fref=nf

Ramping up for first arrival.

[Greg Hyde]

Can you name that plane? Qantas asks public to name its 787s

Qantas has called on the general public to suggest names for its forthcoming fleet of eight Boeing 787-9 aircraft, which it says it wants to name after “Australian icons”.

The airline has published a page on its website where anyone can provide eight name suggestions for the 787s, the first of which is due for delivery in October this year.

“We want their names to reflect the true Spirit of Australia, so your suggestions should be around people, places or things that reflect the depth and breadth of this place we all call home. It could be a notable person, a ground-breaking invention, a piece of our culture, a saying, a man-made or natural landmark, anything that sums up what Australia means to you,” the name-the-plane webpage reads.

Full Story

http://australianaviation.com.au/2017/05/can-you-name-that-plane-qantas-asks-public-to-name-its-787s/

[Stephen Brown]

Planey McPlaneface

[Todd Hendry]

STRAYA

[SteveR]

Hills Hoist

[Reece perram]

Bradman

[Todd Hendry]

AEROguard

[Ryan K]

Sir Les Patterson

[MarkR]

Planey Pieface

[Steve S... 2]

Boganville.

[Robert.M]

Bald Knob, a location in QLD FYI. ;)

[Dave Dale]

With the second 787 named Brush Box or pink box as it is commonly known... a native Australian tree.

[Greg Hyde]

If you want to go for place names try:

Mamungkukumpurangkuntjunya Hill

in SA is Australia's longest plane name

[Greg Hyde]

Finalist names released

http://australianaviation.com.au/2017/06/vegemite-makes-qantass-even-spread-of-shortlisted-true-blue-787-names/

[Greg Hyde]

Names for first batch of Qantas Boeing 787-9s to feature indigenous heritage, landmarks and native animals

Australia’s indigenous heritage will feature prominently among Qantas’s first batch of eight Boeing 787-9s with Boomerang, Uluru and Dreamtime making the final list names for the soon-to-arrive next generation aircraft.

The list comprises Boomerang, Dreamtime, Great Barrier Reef, Great Southern Land, Quokka, Skippy, Uluru and Waltzing Matilda. Qantas said on Wednesday the name of the first 787-9 that is due for delivery in October would be announced at a later date.

http://australianaviation.com.au/2017/06/names-for-first-batch-of-qantas-boeing-787-9s-to-feature-indigenous-heritage-landmarks-and-native-animals/

[Andrew P]

My vote for Vegemite did not win.

[Greg Hyde]

I hope Skippy isn't on the menu of the aircraft named Skippy

[MarkR]

Yes, the media release for PER-LHR says exactly that - A380 released by the change in LHR flying will be used for peak services to Asian destinations, including HKG & SIN.

Sent from my SM-G920I using Tapatalk

More A380 capacity freed up with the announcement MEL LAX will see the 787 a couple of days of the week replacing the A380 in addition to the already announced 787 flights that replace the 744.

"EXCLUSIVE | Qantas will reduce the number of Airbus A380 Melbourne-Los Angeles flights in early 2018 to just three superjumbo services each week in a move which will also trim availability of first class suites on the trans-Pacific route.

From February 12 to March 24 2018, Qantas will fly the A380 between Melbourne and LAX only three days each week, with a Boeing 787 Dreamliner picking up two days of the QF93/QF94 service.

This will run alongside the six-day-a-week schedule of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner on QF95/QF96."

https://www.ausbt.com.au/qantas-trims-first-class-on-melbourne-los-angeles-a380-flights

[Dennis McLean]

The QF Schedules pages for the week commencing 12 February 2018 show the following:

QF93/94 - 380 - 357,
789 - 1246

QF95 - 789 - 1356
QF96 - 789 - 1456

The Wednesday flight into LAX does not leave till Thursday, about 36 hours in the QF hanger at LAX.

[Dennis McLean]

Delivery Dates for Aircraft 5 and 6 are:
VH-ZNE - 6 July 2018
VH-ZNF - 22 August 2018.

There is no date yet for either ZNG or ZNH, but H is due in 11/2018, so I guess G will come in September or October.

[Brian Noldt]

Parts are arriving for the assembly of the first QANTAS 787-9, VH-ZNA.

Delivery is listed as 12/10/2017.

[Greg Hyde]

Final assembly for first Qantas 787 about to commence

Final assembly of the first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner for Qantas is about to begin after the aircraft’s major components arrived at Boeing’s Everett facility last week.
Qantas currently has eight 787-9s on order (11 787-8s are already in service with subsidiary Jetstar), with the first aircraft planned for delivery in mid-October.
Major components for that aircraft, comprising its nose, tail, fuselage and wings, arrived from their suppliers at Everett last week via Boeing’s 747-400LCF Dreamlifter aircraft ahead of final assembly commencing next Monday.

The final assembly process is expected to take 18 working days, with the aircraft planned to roll off the production line by the end of the month before entering the paint shop.

Typically the aircraft would then undertake two test flights with Boeing and then one or two customer acceptance flights ahead of formal handover to Qantas.

http://australianaviation.com.au/2017/08/final-assembly-for-first-qantas-787-about-to-commence/

[Christopher Campbell]

Hopefully Qantas announces the on August 25 the next orders (the last 15 purchase options) For 6 in 2H FY19 and 9 in FY20.

This would bring the 787 fleet to 23 by the end of FY2020

This would then leave the last 30 orders being delivered from FY2021 to the end of FY2025. This would mean 6 deliveries per FY year bringing the total to 53 787s.

[Jacob L]

http://painefield.blogspot.com.au/2017/08/tail-for-qantas-1st-787-9-spotted.html?spref=fb


First Tail shot of VH-ZNA at Paine Field

[MarkR]

Qantas ads are currently suggesting Canada will be served by a Dreamliner.

[Greg Hyde]

New pics of mated fuselage.

Qantas’s first 787-9 in final assembly

Qantas’s first Boeing 787-9 is now under final assembly ahead of its anticipated October delivery date.
A photo posted to Qantas’s Instagram account on Friday shows the fuselage joined to the nose and tail, while the wings were in the process of being attached at Boeing’s Everett facility.
Qantas said recently final assembly would begin on August 10 and take 18 working days to complete, with the aircraft due to roll off the production line by the end of August before entering the paintshop.
The major components for that aircraft, slated to have registration VH-ZNA, such as the nose, tail, fuselage and wings, arrived from their suppliers at Everett at the start of August.

Typically the aircraft would then undertake two test flights with Boeing and then one or two customer acceptance flights ahead of formal handover to Qantas.

http://australianaviation.com.au/2017/08/qantass-first-787-9-in-final-assembly/

[Christopher Campbell]

When should the routes for the second 4 of 787s be released?

[Dennis McLean]

Who knows???? You have to be in the "inner" circle to know. I have a friend who is an A.380 pilot and he does not know yet. However, OEB leaves in mid 2018 after the 4 week round the world tour and OJS,T,U are due to leave during the period when ZNE,F,G,H go into service so it is a guessing game. E is due in July, F in August, G in September and H in November. I suppose the other question is which routes will still have a 744ER by December 2018??

[MarkR]

Will be a while before any announcement with the new heads moving into their roles including Qantas International.

[James Smith]

QANTAS 787-9 domestic service prior to LAX operations commencing in December, 2017 has been released. Sydney gets six services per week with QF442 arriving on Saturday at 16:25 and QF460 arriving at 19:55 Monday to Friday. QF439 departs at 14:00 on Saturday and QF497 departs at 22:05 on Monday to Friday. These times are based on current schedules. I'm not sure how the Saturday schedule will work with the 787-9 leaving Sydney at 14:00 and arriving back at 16:25 with only one aircraft delivered by 6 November but is subject to change.

QANTAS in recent schedule update has filed preliminary domestic service by its new Boeing 787-9, currently set to operate from 06NOV17. Between 06NOV17 and 14DEC17, the Dreamliner is scheduled to operate following service.

Melbourne – Perth
MEL departure: QF775 Day x67, QF769 Day 7
PER departure: QF772 Day x67, QF776 Day 7

Melbourne – Sydney
MEL departure: QF442 Day 6, QF460 Day x67
SYD departure: QF439 Day 6, QF497 Day x67

Source: Airline Routes Online

[Dennis McLean]

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT, the second group of four 789's to be based in Brisbane.



"Media Releases

QANTAS TO BASE FOUR DREAMLINERS IN BRISBANE

Brisbane

Published on 29th August 2017


BRISBANE, 29 August 2017 – Qantas today announced that four 787-9 Dreamliners will be based in Brisbane, bringing 470 new jobs and opening up new potential international routes.

The first of eight Dreamliners ordered by the national carrier will be delivered from Boeing in late October this year, and the first to be based in Brisbane will arrive in mid-2018. All four Brisbane-based aircraft will be in place by the end of 2018.

Qantas Group CEO, Alan Joyce, said basing four of the airline’s Dreamliners in Brisbane will help drive international tourism into the state over the long term.

“Queensland is the birthplace of Qantas and it’s fitting that we will base four of our Dreamliners in the state. The 787 offers a step-change for customers in terms of comfort and efficiency and we are pleased Queenslanders will be able to experience them direct from Brisbane.

“Each aircraft we base in Brisbane brings new jobs. One hundred and twenty of our Dreamliner cabin crew and pilots will be based in the city, with many choosing to settle in the state. A further 350 indirect jobs are expected to be created as a result.

“We’ve said that initially our Dreamliners will replace the routes that our older 747 fly but there are also new destinations we are looking at given the capability of the aircraft. A range of exciting options is on the table that will help drive tourism to the state and we look forward to making that decision in coming months.

“I’d like to acknowledge the support of the Queensland Government, Brisbane Airport Corporation and Tourism Australia for helping to make our Brisbane Dreamliner base a reality,” said Mr Joyce.

From Brisbane, the Qantas Dreamliner is capable of flying non-stop to destinations such as Seattle, Chicago and San Francisco in the United States, Vancouver in Canada, as well as Asia.

Qantas recently completed the reconfiguration of its A330 fleet at its Brisbane hangar and is installing Wi-Fi on a number of its 737 and A330 aircraft, that operate domestically, at the airline’s Brisbane base.

In 2016 Qantas opened its new International Business Lounge and opened a new domestic lounge precinct with a Business Lounge and Valet earlier this year. The Qantas Club in Brisbane is due to open in coming months.

Qantas operates 58 return, direct international services each week from Brisbane to Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown, Hong Kong, Los Angeles, Noumea, Port Moresby, Singapore and Tokyo. The airline also operates more than 620 return services from Brisbane per week to 25 destinations across its domestic network and more than 390 return services per week to 20 destinations within Queensland.

In December 2016 Qantas announced that the airline’s first four in its fleet of eight Dreamliners would be based in Melbourne, serving the Melbourne – Los Angeles route from December 2017 and the Melbourne – London (via Perth) route from March 2018. This is the world’s first service to link Australia directly with the UK.

Qantas will take delivery of its first Dreamliner in October 2017 with the 787-9 operating on domestic sectors for six weeks for crew training and familiarisation before its first scheduled Melbourne – Los Angeles service on 15 December 2017.

More information on the Qantas Dreamliner can be found here."

[Greg Hyde]

More on initial routes

Qantas 787-9 to enter service in November on domestic routes, preliminary schedules show

Qantas has filed preliminary flight schedules showing its soon-to-arrive Boeing 787-9 will operate domestic services from Melbourne to Perth and Sydney prior to commencing long-haul services to Los Angeles.

The airline is due to take delivery of its first 787-9 in the middle of October, with an exact delivery date yet to be officially confirmed.

While nonstop Melbourne-Los Angeles flights with the 787-9 are due to take off from December 15, preliminary filings with global distribution systems (GDS) showed Qantas planned to operate regular public transport (RPT) domestic flights from November 6.

The Airlineroute website reports the Qantas 787-9 schedule comprises six flights a week between Melbourne and Perth and six flights a week on the Melbourne-Sydney route from November 6 to December 14.

A Qantas spokesperson confirmed to Australian Aviation that the preliminary filings had been entered into the GDS. However, the spokesperson stressed the schedule was only preliminary and subject to change pending confirmation of the final delivery date and associated preparations for the entry into service of the new aircraft type.

Further, Qantas will communicate with the travelling public how to book those domestic 787-9 flights once the schedule is officially locked in.

The airline currently has eight 787-9s on order, with 11 787-8s already in service with subsidiary Jetstar.

They will feature a premium-heavy 236-seat interior: 42 seats in business class (in a 1-2-1 configuration), 28 in premium economy (at 2-3-2 abreast) and 166 in economy (at nine abreast), but it is expected that the 787-9 domestic services would be sold as a two-class (business and economy) flight.

The first Qantas 787-9, to be registered VH-ZNA, recently rolled off the final assembly line at Boeing’s Everett facility.

http://australianaviation.com.au/2017/08/preliminary-schedules-show-qantas-787-9-to-begin-service-in-november-on-two-domestic-routes/

It's a bit like death by a million press releases.

[Adam W]

[QUOTE=Dennis McLean;104363]BIG ANNOUNCEMENT, the second group of four 789's to be based in Brisbane.



"Media Releases

QANTAS TO BASE FOUR DREAMLINERS IN BRISBANE

Unfortunately this will most likely be the end of the BNE-LAX 747.:(

[James Smith]

Two 787-9s to operate QF15/16 BRI - LAX. Where will the the other two Dreamliners fly to from BRI?

To replace the remaining non ER 744s doesn't there need to be 787-9 services from SYD - SFO. Will they operate BRI - SFO? I wouldn't have thought so but maybe a couple of times a week and then return SFO - SYD? Can they base the crew and aircraft in Brisbane and still operate from Sydney. Only if they triangulate through the same US city, unless they position the aircraft from Brisbane to Sydney.

This is doing my head in!!!

[Adam W]

Rumor has it that Perth-Paris will be the next announcement. This could make it LAX-BNE-PER-CDG.

[Ryan K]

Wouldn't that be JFK-LAX-BNE-PER-CDG return?

[Dennis McLean]

Would not have the time to add LAX/JFK/LAX which would be about 9 hours plus and extra 90 mins on the ground in both JFK & LAX. Check the times for MEL to LAX and LHR. About 5 hours on the ground in MEL, 90min PER, 5 hours LHR, 90 mins PER, 90 mins MEL then about 4 hours in LAX. Almost LCC times?????

[Kent Broadhead]

Agree with Ryan though. Given the current BNE-LAX-JFK flights, something would need to change for CDG to be serviced through PER from BNE

[Dennis McLean]

I cannot believe that Joyce would replace a Daily 744 with 364 seats with a daily 789 with 236 seats on BNE/LAX/BNE. That is a reduction of 896 seats. But then look at MEL/DXB/LHR, a 388 to a 789 and remember that not all those seats (236) will start in MEL. So He is just giving seats away to competitors.
Perhaps the second 2 789's will do a daily to another city like Dallas or Chicago or 3 days to Dallas and 4 to Chicago. What is the use of a BNE/YVR as AC has that tied up. Remember that the 388 fleet will have a dedicated need for 9 Aircraft, 3 SYD-LHR, 4 - SYD & MEL-LAX, and 2 SYD-DFW. With 1 in maintenance most of the time, where will the other 2 from MEL/LHR be scheduled, perhaps 1 on SYD/HKG permanently. Any thoughts.

[Brett o]

Could the thinking be to use the 2 787s from Brisbane to fly to Europe. Perhaps Paris and time the flights to match to qf 1/2

[Jonathan W]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DKJ96F6U8AAkzKY.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DKJ962NVwAEivD5.jpg

Pics from the following tweet by AusBT
https://twitter.com/AusBT/status/910428936298827776

[Greg Hyde]

Additional photos added.

to twitter feed

No name as yet

ETA

QF7879 touching down at Sydney on Friday October 20 at around 7am. It'll then taxi around past the Qantas lounges at T3 pull into the T3-adjacent Hangar 96 for a special (also invite-only) arrival event which will run through to mid-morning.

[Greg Hyde]

First Qantas 787 emerges from the paintshop

Qantas’s first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner has been rolled out from the paintshop ahead of making its first flight later this week.

The aircraft, which wears the airline’s new colour scheme and the registration VH-ZNA (but no sign of its Australian-inspired name), emerged from the paintshop at Boeing’s Everett facility early Wednesday morning US time.

Qantas says the aircraft took four days to paint using more than 250 litres of paint.
“During the next few days, further tests will be conducted on the aircraft engines, electrical systems and other components before it takes to the skies later this week for Boeing flight certifications,” Qantas said on Thursday morning.

“Qantas pilots will get the opportunity to fly the aircraft on subsequent flights as part of the final acceptance next month.”

VH-ZNA is due to arrive in Sydney at the end of its delivery flight on Friday October 20.

The aircraft, the first of eight on firm order, will first enter service on the Qantas domestic network while the airline gains experience operating the aircraft before it used on Melbourne-Los Angeles flights in December. Nonstop Perth-London flights begin next March.

http://australianaviation.com.au/2017/09/first-qantas-787-emerges-from-the-paintshop/

[Christopher Campbell]

What time is the first test flight?

[Dennis McLean]

First Flight due on 26 September, USA time.

[Dennis McLean]

now changed to 27 September

[Ray P.]

Does anyone know if the first flight will be live-streamed. I suspect it's only hours away.

[Dennis McLean]

Now changed to 28 September USA time

[Dennis McLean]

First Flight 2hr3min done. Does not show on Flight Aware yet as ZNA. KPAE-KMWH-KPAE. Look at BOE269


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[Greg Hyde]

Qantas’s first 787-9 takes flight

http://australianaviation.com.au/2017/09/qantass-first-787-9-takes-flight/

photos included

[Dennis McLean]

I just checked no second test flight yet. 10 October is getting closer???

[Dennis McLean]

Well out of the blue, 2 test flights on 5/10. The first one 53 minutes KPAE-KPAE, and the second KPAE/KMWH/KPAE. This was actually 2 flights, 2hr14min, then 20min at KMWH and 43min back to KPAE.

Also ZK-NZL is on its delivery flight KIAH/NZAA as ANZ6094, due in AKL at 19.30 today

[Greg Hyde]

The two flights yesterday were B2 & C1 so delivery looks on schedule.

[Dennis McLean]

Hi Greg,

Have you heard anything about ZNE-ZNH being in a different configuration?? I vaguely remember reading something somewhere that they would be different??

ANZ's first group of 789's are 302 seats whereas NZL on delivery now has only 275.

Dennis

[Greg Hyde]

Sorry Dennis, I can't help with that one

but

VH-ZNA was finally added to the reg on 4/10.

[C Patters]

Hi all, there is a good video on youtube of ZNA doing a flight check. The link is as follows:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9Xqd3fcCaE

[David C]

Hi Greg,

Have you heard anything about ZNE-ZNH being in a different configuration?? I vaguely remember reading something somewhere that they would be different??

ANZ's first group of 789's are 302 seats whereas NZL on delivery now has only 275.

Dennis

I read in the Australian Aviation mag that ANZ were taking delivery of 3 787-9 in 275 pax configuration , NZL is obviously the first with this seating .

Dave C

[MarkR]

I read in the Australian Aviation mag that ANZ were taking delivery of 3 787-9 in 275 pax configuration , NZL is obviously the first with this seating .

Dave C

There are 5 that will have the increased premium seating cabins, apparently more of a demand for business and PE, not surprising really given most of the NZ flights are long haul.

[Reece perram]

Here is a video of the first test flight at Everett.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9Xqd3fcCaE

[Brian Noldt]

This story and video is on the West Australia

It is the assembly and painting of VH-ZNA

https://thewest.com.au/business/aviation/see-qantas-perth-to-london-boeing-787-9-dreamliner-being-built-ng-b88627868z

[Christopher Campbell]

Qantas will fly its Boeing 787-9 between Brisbane and Los Angeles by the end of 2018, with the jet continuing on to New York, and follow this with a new US route from Brisbane.

Speaking in Seattle ahead of the delivery of the airline's first Boeing 787-9, which will arrive into Sydney on Friday October 20, Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce confirmed that the Brisbane-LA route currently flown by a Boeing 747 "will be replaced with a (Boeing) 787."

The Dreamliner would then continue to New York, picking up passengers from the Sydney-LA and Melbourne-LA services, which Joyce said would dramatically improve" the economics of that stateside leg compared to the jumbo jet.

"In addition we want to fly somewhere new in the states – that could be Seattle, it could be Chicago, it could be Dallas," Joyce said.

Qantas will base four of its first eight Boeing 787s at Brisbane, with those jets due to join the fleet between July and November this year.

Next Boeing 787s in 2019-2020

Joyce said that the airline would look to ordering more Dreamliners from 2018, pulling from its current book of 45 orders and options, but "there will be a gap" between signing on the dotted line and being haned over the keys.

"We do need to bed down the (Boeing 787) operation, we want to to demonstrate to the market and our shareholders that these 787s are making economic sense and we can make a good profit and return (from them)."

Next year we’ll have to start making calls (and) there are some that come available from the end of 2019 to 2020."

https://www.ausbt.com.au/qantas-to-fly-boeing-787-on-brisbane-los-angeles-new-york

[MarkR]

"In addition we want to fly somewhere new in the states – that could be Seattle, it could be Chicago, it could be Dallas," Joyce said.



Hmm. QF CEO thinks Dallas would be a new destination.....

[Max C]

I think Joyce was talking in the context of routes ex BNE.

[Greg Hyde]

We know what it looks like, we know when it arrives.

But we don't know it's name.

My guess, Uluru or Waltzing Matilda

http://australianaviation.com.au/2017/06/names-for-first-batch-of-qantas-boeing-787-9s-to-feature-indigenous-heritage-landmarks-and-native-animals/

Any takers ?

[Neil L]

My guess is "Dreamtime" to match Dreamliner

[Christopher Campbell]

New 787 delivery dates for number 7 and 8

7.VH-ZNG
Line Number:774
Variable Number:ZB275
Assembled:Everett
Delivery:9th November 2018

8.VH-ZNH
Line Number:778
Variable Number:ZB277
Assembled:Everett
Delivery:20th November 2018

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1FH3Y2-vRUgojntPkCSJI5Pd-15rsJ1a0SFCRaT-iqgo/edit#gid=19

[Greg Hyde]

The QF PR was cranked up on TEN News tonight with bits from the above video as well as a tour of the Boeing factory.

Also, ZNB was shown in the background with major assembly planned for tonight.

[Greg Hyde]

Tonights Ch7 news

https://au.news.yahoo.com/video/watch/37487953/qantas-selects-aircraft-to-fly-from-london-to-australia-direct/

[Adrian B]

According to that report 600 Dreamliners have left the Boeing factory????? (1:18 on the video)

[David C]

So it's named " Great Southern Land "

Dave C

[Oliver Gigacz]

606 have been delivered...

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1FH3Y2-vRUgojntPkCSJI5Pd-15rsJ1a0SFCRaT-iqgo/edit#gid=49

[Greg Hyde]

Naming ceremony.

http://australianaviation.com.au/2017/10/great-southern-land-first-qantas-787-formally-revealed/

[Adrian B]

About to land in Honolulu

Flightaware VH-ZNA (https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VHZNA)

[Greg Hyde]

Could be the slowest delivery flight for a B789

[MarkR]

Good for building up the hype though, journos already filing stories!

http://www.escape.com.au/news/qantas-dreamliner-first-flight-review-what-to-expect-on-board/news-story/4a33f5562c4522afb10eb9d1e9423ae6#itm=newscomau|hom e|v2-homepage-topstories|5|headline|homepage|homepage&itmt=1508309025503

[Greg Hyde]

Journos flown to Seattle by QF, Journos on board delivery flight.

Ch10 was the only news (that I was aware of) that disclosed that QF had taken all the Journos to Seattle for the delivery.

[Greg Hyde]

Delivery flight continues...

Date
Wednesday 18/10/2017
Departure
11:40PM HST Daniel K Inouye Intl - HNL
Arrival
05:53AM AEDT (+2) Sydney - SYD
A/c
B789
Duration
9h 13m

[Christopher Campbell]

If the AA JV gets the approval could the 787 MEL-LAX be moved to MEL- DFW?

[Greg Hyde]

Qantas welcomes first Boeing 787-9

Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce says touchdown of the airline’s first Boeing 787-9 represents something of a rebirth of the 97-year-old Australian flag carrier.

The aircraft, VH-ZNA Great Southern Land, landed at 0700 local time on Friday morning, after its 10-hour delivery flight QF7879 from Honolulu, Hawaii.

After a short wait, the 787-9 was towed to Hangar 96 at the Qantas jetbase, receiving an Airservices Aviation Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) monitor cross on the way.

About 1,500 people were inside Hangar 96 to greet Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce, airline staff, invited guests and journalists stepping off the flight from Honolulu.

Speaking to the crowd after disembarking the aircraft, Joyce hailed the end of what has been a long wait for the first 787 to appear in Qantas colours, given the airline first ordered the type in 2005.

http://australianaviation.com.au/2017/10/qantas-welcomes-first-boeing-787-9/

Shame QF couldn't control the weather for the arrival.

[Reece perram]

When will ZNA's first commercial flight be?

[Rowan McKeever]

I believe it’s 6 November at this stage.

[Reece perram]

Ok thanks

[Greg Hyde]

The other side of the delivery

ABC Mediawatch

Junketing journalists

http://www.abc.net.au/mediawatch/transcripts/s4754065.htm

[NathanJ]

ZNA was in hangar 416 last night nose to nose with 747 OEF.

[Erik H. Bakke]

Are there any plans to let it out to stretch its wings before the commercial introduction?

[NathanJ]

I'd expect it to ferry to Melbourne by the end of this week as the crew down there will need some time with it before commercial ops commence.

[NathanJ]

Qantas gate 10 @ domestic has had it's bay lines repainted with 789 now added.

[MarkR]

I wonder what the procedure is for adding a new type to the NIGS.

[NathanJ]

ZNA has been sitting on Qantas bay 10 @ domestic this afternoon/evening with aerobridge, catering, deckloaders and fuel truck in position. Staff training etc. Apparently flying to Melbourne Friday evening with a load of Qantas staff onboard. There's a staff open day happening in Melbourne this weekend.

[NathanJ]

ZNA in hangar 416...

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4488/37174744743_ec48d225a9_c.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4476/37175686693_767ab3ea98_c.jpg

And on Qantas domestic bay 10 this afternoon...

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4482/37868578062_b5e7497864_c.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4467/37899042801_593e7376e1_c.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4484/24047587128_a4d4d5a57c_c.jpg

[C Patters]

Does anyone know if Qantas have locked in the flights/dates for the 787-9 flying domestically that they have previously noted?

[MarkR]

Routesonline had some info:

QANTAS in a recent schedule update filed preliminary domestic service by its new Boeing 787-9, currently set to operate from 06NOV17. Between 06NOV17 and 14DEC17, the Dreamliner is scheduled to operate the following service.

Melbourne – Perth
MEL departure: QF775 Day x67, QF769 Day 7
PER departure: QF772 Day x67, QF776 Day 7

Melbourne – Sydney
MEL departure: QF442 Day 6, QF460 Day x67
SYD departure: QF439 Day 6, QF497 Day x67

[David Heath]

I've booked 775 on the 6/11 anyway. The map shows 789 but type is still 332. I'm in 11A so I will know if there's a change hopefully soon enough to do something about it.

[David Heath]

So it's seems the inaugural will be QF775 on the 3/11 according to AusBT?

[NathanJ]

VH-ZNA is on the way to MEL as QF6161!

[Reece perram]

When will she come back to SYD?

[NathanJ]

possibly next Friday evening & Saturday.

https://www.ausbt.com.au/how-to-book-domestic-flights-on-the-qantas-boeing-787

[Reece perram]

Ok thanks

[Ben C]

I see QF481 tomorrow is scheduled as the 789, is this definite? I thought the first passenger flight as meant to be QF775 on Friday.

https://flightaware.com/live/flight/QFA481/history/20171101/0640Z/YMML/YPPH

[Greg Hyde]

Qantas to begin 787 domestic flights on November 1

Qantas’s first Boeing 787-9 will begin commercial passenger service on Wednesday on the Melbourne-Perth route.

The aircraft, VH-ZNA Great Southern Land, will operate QF481, which is scheduled to depart Melbourne at 1750 and arrive in Perth at 1830 local time.

Qantas said on Wednesday VH-ZNA would receive an Airservices Aviation Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) monitor cross at Melbourne Tullamarine prior to departure.

Further, residents of Perth would be able to get a closer look at the next generation widebody when, subject to weather and air traffic control, the flight conducts a low flyover over the city at about 2,000 feet prior to landing.

After an overnight stop in Perth, VH-ZNA will operate QF762 back to Melbourne, which is due to depart at 0800 and land at 1425.

Full text

http://australianaviation.com.au/2017/10/qantas-to-begin-boeing-787-9-domestic-flights-on-november-1/

[Greg Hyde]

Will this be the first B787 domestic service in Oz ?

Has JQ ever flown their B787 on domestic routes other than routes proving/training flights ?

[David Heath]

I'm thinking these flights are as domestic as the MEL OOL flights JQ did in late 2013.

[Ryan K]

Will this be the first B787 domestic service in Oz ?

Has JQ ever flown their B787 on domestic routes other than routes proving/training flights ?

I often notice JQ 787 services between Melbourne and the Queensland centres, particularly the Gold Coast and maybe Cairns.

[David Heath]

They're doing a MEL - CBR run too. QF814 30/11/17.

[Zac M]

Returns as QF833 the same day to MEL

[MarkR]

I often notice JQ 787 services between Melbourne and the Queensland centres, particularly the Gold Coast and maybe Cairns.

JQ58 does Bne Mel every second day roughly.

[NathanJ]

ZNA is due into Sydney @ 19.55 this evening.

[Greg Hyde]

ZNB was rolled out of the factory on 01/11/2017.

[Reece perram]

When will ZNB be delivered, and to what airport?