QANTAS Fleet and Operations

[Lauren J]

Hearing reports that NXE has been retired?

[Greg Hyde]

There are nine B717's left on the VH-Reg, Here is the state of play

ACT: NXE, NXO,NXQ, YQS, YQT, YQW, YQY (7)
VCV: NXK, NXN (2)

[Brenden S]

Qantas A321XLR rego's will be VH-OGA-OGT which was last used on Qantas Boeing 767-338's

[Zac M]

NXE finished up on Sunday night

[C Patters]

Very nostalgic indeed using the old Qantas Boeing 767-338's regos!

[Greg Hyde]

Very nostalgic indeed using the old Qantas Boeing 767-338's regos!

I was wondering what they planned to do with them since they weren't released to the general VH-Reg (reserved)

[James Smith]

Greg, do you know of any other VH blocks that Qantas has held onto? EA, EC, OJ, OE maybe. Or looking further ahead perhaps even the VX or VY registrations after these blocks of B738s are retired beginning next year?

[Greg Hyde]

Greg, do you know of any other VH blocks that Qantas has held onto? EA, EC, OJ, OE maybe. Or looking further ahead perhaps even the VX or VY registrations after these blocks of B738s are retired beginning next year?

James, Not off the top of my head.

There is less need now with Alphanumeric regos (more combinations).

The OGx reg was interesting as it wasn't re-used like the TJx block (TAA Jet for those old enough to remember)

[Brenden S]

It requires someone in the company to save the registrations. They have to tell CASA what they intend on using those registrations for. It is all part of the regs.

[MarkR]

Little bit surprised ZNA gets the honour of operating the first QF33 SYD-PER-CDG today.

[James Smith]

QANTAS has had an A380 VH-OQH with an unserviceability in SIN since last Sunday. It left SYD as QF1 and after transiting SIN departed for LHR. It diverted back to SIN landing after only an hours flight time. It has now left SIN for SYD after 5 days as QF6016 and is scheduled to arrive at 18:36 local.

[Greg Hyde]

From Airline Secrets (not always accurate)

An incident involving a Qantas A380 which burst three tyres on landing at Singapore after turning back with a hydraulics issue will not be investigated because it was handled well by crew.

After gathering further information from Qantas, the Australian Transport Safety Bureau
decided an investigation was not warranted as it was “a technical issue appropriately managed by pilots”.

The flight to London was in the air for just over two hours in total, after pilots received an alert about a potential hydraulics issue shortly after takeoff from Singapore late Sunday night.

A Qantas A380 pilot who did not want to be named said the aircraft was designed to taxi with as many as nine flat tyres and it was not considered a serious threat to safety.
“The tyres are filled with nitrogen because it’s incombustible and helps prevent a wheel fire,” said the pilot.

“They can withstand a maximum landing speed of 204 kts but they can deflate as a result of a high energy stop in a rejected takeoff situation or a heavy landing.”

As a result Qantas was forced to swap in other aircraft for the A380 registered VH-OQH — one of just six in operation currently as four underwent maintenance in Abu Dhabi.
Passengers on Sunday’s aborted flight to London were understood to have been re-accommodated on other flights the next day.

A Qantas spokeswoman apologised to customers, and thanked them for their patience.

[James Smith]

Thanks for posting the information, Greg. OQH returned to service on turnaround operating SYD-LAX as QF11 just after 22:00 Saturday night.

[Brian Wilkes]

Would anyone know the reason for VH-ZNH (With the GO Australia titles) has spent more time in the hangers than in air for the last 4 weeks?

[Greg Hyde]

NXE has departed Canberra for VCV

[Greg Hyde]

NXE has arrived in VCV.

This ferry went via Kailua / Kona, HI rather than the normal Honolulu

[MarkR]

I wonder what the photo shoot of OQG today was all about

[Greg Hyde]

NXO is reportedly withdrawn & next to go.

[Ben W]

I believe Qantas was going to start running their 380's to JNB weren't they? Is that still on the horizon and if so, when will they start?

[Tristan S]

I believe Qantas was going to start running their 380's to JNB weren't they? Is that still on the horizon and if so, when will they start?

October

Johannesburg, South Africa (from October 2024);*

https://www.qantas.com/au/en/about-us/our-company/fleet/qantas-a380.html

Delayed due to the delays in getting some of the 380s back from heavy maintenance

[Tristan S]

Former QF 767 VH-OGV is now Israel's "Air Force One", registered 4X-ISR

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/qQh5VTSDtRn6NfYr/

[Brian Wilkes]

Former QF 767 VH-OGV is now Israel's "Air Force One", registered 4X-ISR

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/qQh5VTSDtRn6NfYr/

Has been for many years now.

[Brenden S]

VH-XNH will be retired from service Mid August. This will be the last Classic 737 retirement in the Qantas fleet.

[Greg Hyde]

NXN was deleted from the VH-Reg on 19/07

[Tristan S]

Planetags have released tags for OQE.
https://planetags.com/collections/frontpage/products/qantas-a380-vh-oqe
If anyone is interested.

[Robert.M]

Seems the aircraft flying QFA479 this evening has an incorrectly programmed transponder (according to FR24 it was VH-XZI). Was showing up as VH-XXU (registered to a Eurocopter AS 350B3)!

https://aviationspotting.au/tempfiles/VRS%20VHXXU%2026%20Jul.png
https://www.flightaware.com/live/flight/QFA479/history/20240726/0810Z/YSSY/YMML
https://www.flightradar24.com/data/flights/qf479#36555137

[Greg Hyde]

Spares ship VH-NQZ/11505 (F100) was deleted from the VH-Reg on 29/07/2024

[Brodie L]

VH-VZE looks like it may be out of action for a while after a baggage tug ended up underneath the fuselage in Perth over the weekend.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-VZE looks like it may be out of action for a while after a baggage tug ended up underneath the fuselage in Perth over the weekend.

Perth seems the place for that, wasn't there a B787 damaged by a tug as well ?

[Lauren J]

Perth seems the place for that, wasn't there a B787 damaged by a tug as well ?

Not sure about a 787, but VH-VXQ was tagged by a rug a couple of years ago in Perth too.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-ZNG was hit in Melbourne in 2019.

[James Smith]

QANTAS Flight Status is showing QF6014 departing AUH on Monday morning (10:05 local) and arriving in SYD at 6:05 AEST Tuesday morning, 13/8/24. This is subject to change, of course but will be one of the four A380s (OQC, OQD, OQK, OQL) that have been having maintenance and/or refurbishment in AUH.

There is no reciprocal QF6015 to AUH showing at this point on Flight Status, so there may not be the need for another A380 to ferry to AUH for maintenance to replace the returning aircraft.

The next increase in QANTAS A380 services is on 30/9/24 when SYD-JNB-SYD services on QF63/64 replace B789.

[Greg Hyde]

B717 VH-NXK was deleted from the VH-Reg on 09/08/2024

[Greg Hyde]

B712 Fleet Status

CUR
NXO, NXQ,YQS, YQT, YQW,YQY 6
VCV
NXE 1

NXO is reportedly next to go.

For those old enough to remember, back in 2008, QF sold 3 X B712 to Hawaiian Airlines. These 3 are still going.

[Zac M]

NXO is undergoing preparations for ferry in Canberra

[MarkR]

For those old enough to remember, back in 2008, QF sold 3 X B712 to Hawaiian Airlines. These 3 are still going.

Indeed 2 of those sold were the first two made after the prototype, I wonder if Qantas has ever had the first and last of its type in the fleet like the 717, excluding the 747-400ers?

[Lauren J]

Indeed 2 of those sold were the first two made after the prototype, I wonder if Qantas has ever had the first and last of its type in the fleet like the 717, excluding the 747-400ers?

To my knowledge, Qantas has not had any other prototypes or last-built aircraft in their fleet apart from the 717s and 747ERs as you mentioned.

[Ben L]

NXO is undergoing preparations for ferry in Canberra

QF6072 scheduled to depart 07:30 this morning, but now with a 24hr delay to tomorrow.

[James Smith]

QANTAS Flight Status is showing QF6014 departing AUH on Monday morning (10:05 local) and arriving in SYD at 6:05 AEST Tuesday morning, 13/8/24. This is subject to change, of course but will be one of the four A380s (OQC, OQD, OQK, OQL) that have been having maintenance and/or refurbishment in AUH.

FlightAware has just added the details of QF6014 to its site and OQD is the A380 operating the flight which is scheduled to depart in three hours from AUH.

[Christopher Campbell]

VH-OQD has departed AUH(16:43) and is due to arrive into SYD at 7:05.

[James Smith]

QANTAS has now added flight QF6015 SYD-AUH to Flight Status for Wednesday 14/8/24, scheduled to depart at 11:45am, so there is further maintenance needed on the A380 fleet. Speculation on which A380 will operate this flight will have to wait until late tomorrow.

[C Patters]

Could be OQI off to get a check & repaint??

[Stirling D]

QANTAS has now added flight QF6015 SYD-AUH to Flight Status for Wednesday 14/8/24, scheduled to depart at 11:45am, so there is further maintenance needed on the A380 fleet. Speculation on which A380 will operate this flight will have to wait until late tomorrow.

OQG

[Greg Hyde]

NXO departed Canberra this morning for VCV as SXI2466

[James Smith]

OQG

Thanks very much for the information, Stirling. Much appreciated. A380 OQG operated QF11 to LAX yesterday and will return to SYD as QF12 tomorrow morning at 8:10am before ferrying to AUH as QF6015.

I noticed that OQD did not have a test flight in AUH before flying home. The only reason I came up with for this was because nothing was done to the aircraft that would have affected its flying performance or normal operations. Possibly OQD was in AUH for wing spar inspections which take approximately 50 days to perform and as she was there for 57 days the inspection work could have been done. Maybe OQG is also having her wing spar inspections while in AUH.

Mr. Patters, the last few A380 repaints, not associated with maintenance, have been done in PUS South Korea. OQH flew LAX-PUS-LAX for her repaint in October, 2023.

[C Patters]

Was watching the Olympic team home coming this morning & noticed that ZNH had tape all over its vertical stabilizer. Looked horrible. Any ideas why this might be the case?

[Kent Broadhead]

Was watching the Olympic team home coming this morning & noticed that ZNH had tape all over its vertical stabilizer. Looked horrible. Any ideas why this might be the case?

I assume the same paint issues afflicting many, many 787s worldwide.

[James Smith]

A380 OQD returned to service operating QF1 this afternoon.

[Brian Wilkes]

VH-ZNH has spent more time in hangers around the world than in the air in the last 6 to 7 weeks!

The amount of flights cancelled or late using ZNH has been interesting, to say the least.

[Tom PER]

Was watching the Olympic team home coming this morning & noticed that ZNH had tape all over its vertical stabilizer. Looked horrible. Any ideas why this might be the case?

Matches the speed tape that -ZND is still wearing on her engine after a lightning strike back in September 2023!

The fanbois will try to defend that, but there’s absolutely no excuse speed tape is a temporary measure, not a permanent fixture.

[Brenden S]

The high speed tape on the vertical stab would be due to the fact that it was off and sealant was applied. Temporary tape can be applied over the wet sealant to allow it to cure. I am sure it will be removed when the next maintenance opportunity presents itself.

[Greg Hyde]

NXO has arrived at VCV

[Robert.M]

YQT might be the next 717, hasn’t flown since the 13th and after flying as QJE6200 from MEL-CBR.

[C Patters]

Looks like EBS is out of action in Jakarta. Hasn't moved since August 14th wonder what happened?

[James Smith]

Departed as QF40 CGK-MEL on the evening of 14/8/24 and returned to CGK with a flight time of just over two hours.

[C Patters]

Yep indicates a tech issue had to return to Jakarta after only 1 hour & hasn’t moved since

[C Patters]

Still no movement on EBS......something must be def wrong!

[Chris Z]

Yeah, EBS blew an engine. Coming home later this weekend.

[C Patters]

Thanks Chris Z for the info mate thought something like that might have happened!

[Lauren J]

I noticed a 737 in the new livery with split winglets in Brisbane hangar today. Could possibly be either VZG or VZZ?

[C Patters]

It will be VZZ as it’s just returned from maintenance in Singapore

[Stirling D]

VZZ came back with no splits

[Brenden S]

VZT-XZP are getting the split winglets.

[Mitchell M.]

I noticed a 737 in the new livery with split winglets in Brisbane hangar today. Could possibly be either VZG or VZZ?

I believe that would most likely be VZY.

[Greg Hyde]

And the winner is:

https://www.flightaware.com/live/flight/VHVZZ

[Stirling D]

And the winner is:

https://www.flightaware.com/live/flight/VHVZZ

VZZ returned from XSP without the split winglets. ;)

[Zac M]

No the winner would be VZY…VZZ as stated above did not come back with splits, unsure whether or not it’s even in new livery as yet

[Greg Hyde]

You can't win them all :(

[Lauren J]

I believe that would most likely be VZY.

Thanks Mitchell, I drove by today and yes it was VZY. Sorry for the mix-up.

[Michael Mak]

VH-ZNC was operating QF6 FCO-PER and suffered a tyre blowout and the underside of the wing while landing in PER on August 24th. Subsequently the following sector of QF6 PER-SYD was cancelled.

[Chris Z]

EBS is currently enroute to BNE as QF6011 for further maintenance requirements.

[Robert.M]

VH-ZNC was operating QF6 FCO-PER and suffered a tyre blowout and the underside of the wing while landing in PER on August 24th. Subsequently the following sector of QF6 PER-SYD was cancelled.

Reports that the tyre blowout happened on takeoff from FCO.

[Ayden H]

It appears VZG is the next 737 to get the SSW, it is having wing modifications performed at BNE

[Zac M]

I would be very surprised is this is the case, as previously stated in this thread by very reliable sources it should be VZT-XZP getting the splits

[Ayden H]

I would be very surprised is this is the case, as previously stated in this thread by very reliable sources it should be VZT-XZP getting the splits

It is currently in the hangar without winglets getting structural modifications (photo credit to LC Photography)
https://scontent.fbne5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/457026692_122164513616146803_7204008886288133196_n .jpg?stp=cp6_dst-jpg&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=aa7b47&_nc_ohc=gKDcWf8qhoQQ7kNvgG4Oi0-&_nc_ht=scontent.fbne5-1.fna&cb_e2o_trans=t&oh=00_AYDD-pNu6AFF_vKV8u5s2GvBttf1DhsTx0ls0R2ehXenYA&oe=66D37660

[Lauren J]

I would be very surprised is this is the case, as previously stated in this thread by very reliable sources it should be VZT-XZP getting the splits

I believe this was implied from the Qantas announcement, with the assumption that the 23 newest 737s will receive splits. However, Qantas themselves didn’t specifically say this.

[James Smith]

QANTAS Flight Status is showing QF6014 operated by an A380 scheduled to depart AUH on Friday morning (10:10 local) and arriving in SYD at 6:10 AEST Saturday morning, 31/8/24. Subject to change, of course.

Does anyone know which A380 of the four currently in AUH is returning and the registration of any other A380 that maybe heading to AUH for maintenance as a replacement. Many thanks.

[C Patters]

My guess is OQK

[MarkR]

Latest results are out with only impact fleetwise is the delay in deliveries, last 734f will go next year.

[Lauren J]

Latest results are out with only impact fleetwise is the delay in deliveries, last 734f will go next year.

I thought the 734F was retired last week? Is it being reintroduced to service?

[Mitchell M.]

I thought the 734F was retired last week? Is it being reintroduced to service?

That would be the second time reintroduced to service if so.

[Stirling D]

That would be the second time reintroduced to service if so.

The 737Classic flight sim was being dismantled last wk

[Brenden S]

Airwork will continue to operate on behalf of Qantas Freight with their Boeing 737-400F's XNH has been retired and all pilots being sent on A321/A330 training.

[MarkR]

Airwork will continue to operate on behalf of Qantas Freight with their Boeing 737-400F's XNH has been retired and all pilots being sent on A321/A330 training.

Airwork are selling their fleet as they are in financial strife, they just got an extension on their US$83M debt, interesting times in freightland

[Greg Hyde]

Last nights news mentioned that QF will receive 20 new aircraft over the next twelve months.

[MarkR]

Last nights news mentioned that QF will receive 20 new aircraft over the next twelve months.

Yep, in detail:
QF
2xA321neoXLR (1 less than forecast prior)
5xA220 (1 more than forecast prior as the extra is a delayed delivery)
0xA321F (-2 from forecast prior - accelerated early deliveries)
JQ
8xA321neo-LR (+1 from prior)
5xA320neo

[Tristan S]

My guess is OQK

OQG, which has only been there a few weeks.. interesting.
https://www.flightradar24.com/data/aircraft/vh-oqg

[Greg Hyde]

Yep, in detail:
QF
2xA321neoXLR (1 less than forecast prior)
5xA220 (1 more than forecast prior as the extra is a delayed delivery)
0xA321F (-2 from forecast prior - accelerated early deliveries)
JQ
8xA321neo-LR (+1 from prior)
5xA320neo

Also "new" to QF are more A319's & Dash8's

[James Smith]

Originally Posted by Tristan S
OQG, which has only been there a few weeks.. interesting.

Yes Tristan, my thoughts are that OQG has had a gear change in AUH as they only take up to a fortnight to perform and don't necessarily need a test flight before ferrying home.

There is still no QF6015 flight to AUH listed on QANTAS flights up to 2/9/24. So, three to remain in AUH.

[Adrian B]

Google Maps shows 3 on an apron on the south side near Etihad Cargo, but no dates on the image.

Look near Echo and Foxtrot off 31L

AUH Chart (https://www.gcaa.gov.ae/en/AIS/_layouts/15/AIP/AIRACs/2022-P04/graphics/OMAA-AD-2-25C_2022-01.pdf)

[Brenden S]

Share buy back to pump up the share price and not paying a dividend again.....

Qantas expects 1st A321XLR to be delivered in April 2025 (FY25)
FY24 deliveries
New Aircraft
1 x B787-9
2 x A220
5 x A321LR for JQ
Mid life aircraft
3 x A319-100
2 x A320-200
3 x A321P2F

FY 25
2 x A321XLR
5 x A220
8 x A321LR
5 x A320Neo

FY26
7 x A321XLR
2 x A321P2F
4 x A321LR

[C Patters]

Does anyone know what the 1 x B787-9 for Qantas delivery in FY24 is? My understanding was that they didn't have any on order until FY27. Is this a cancellation from another customer or frame which is no longer needed by another airline?

[Tom PER]

Does anyone know what the 1 x B787-9 for Qantas delivery in FY24 is? My understanding was that they didn't have any on order until FY27. Is this a cancellation from another customer or frame which is no longer needed by another airline?

We can only hope, but we all know QF doesn’t have the initiative to lease in additional frames to support growth to the network.

-ZNN was delivered in the FY24 period, at the end of July 2023 so although it’s a bit of the smoke and mirrors it’s technically correct.

With no new widebodies coming online until FY27 QF Intl aren’t really going to see any growth, the way the A380’s are shuttling back and forth between AUH and then spending weeks there, I very much doubt we’ll ever see anymore than 8 in actual service at any given time.

[Greg Hyde]

Maybe of interest (Published July 2024)

https://www.qantasnewsroom.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fact-Sheet-Qantas-Group-Fleet-Renewal.pdf

[MarkR]

Does anyone know what the 1 x B787-9 for Qantas delivery in FY24 is? My understanding was that they didn't have any on order until FY27. Is this a cancellation from another customer or frame which is no longer needed by another airline?

FY24 ended June 30, this is reflecting the arrival of ZNN back in July last year

[C Patters]

Thanks guys makes sense!

[Ayden H]

It appears XML and XMO are now listed as 'Partially Scrapped' on PSDN.
https://www.planespotters.net/airframe/boeing-737-300-n488ay-automatic-llc/e5jl83
https://www.planespotters.net/airframe/boeing-737-300-n486ay-automatic-llc/rqxly3

[Greg Hyde]

B712 VH-YQT is scheduled to depart Oz for VCV on 04/09/24

[Greg Hyde]

B712 VH-YQT is scheduled to depart Oz for VCV on 04/09/24

YQT has departed CBR for VCV

[Jamie D]

It appears XML and XMO are now listed as 'Partially Scrapped' on PSDN.
https://www.planespotters.net/airframe/boeing-737-300-n488ay-automatic-llc/e5jl83
https://www.planespotters.net/airframe/boeing-737-300-n486ay-automatic-llc/rqxly3

It sure looks that way :(

https://www.jetphotos.com/photo/11403862

[Stirling D]

Latest results are out with only impact fleetwise is the delay in deliveries, last 734f will go next year.

XNH noted in melbourne hanger with all titles painted over

[James Smith]

YQT has just arrived in VCV.

[Greg Hyde]

NXE was deleted from the VH-Reg on 11/09/24

[Greg Hyde]

VH-NXQ is reportedly the next B717 to leave the fleet.

[Ayden H]

VH-NXQ is reportedly the next B717 to leave the fleet.

Wouldn't be surprised, parked at CBR since the 5th. Southern Cross International are getting a lot of business from QF and QQ!

[MarkR]

Wouldn't be surprised, parked at CBR since the 5th. Southern Cross International are getting a lot of business from QF and QQ!

Not helped by the lack of A220 crew and the tight contract written for the sale of 717s in terms of timings

[Greg Hyde]

Not helped by the lack of A220 crew and the tight contract written for the sale of 717s in terms of timings

The time line is driven by the installation and de-installation of the fuel bladder.

I believe that they only have one in use and it needs to be uninstalled and freighted home after arriving in VCV.

Once in Canberra it is installed again, weight & balance checked and the aircraft is cleared to ferry.

It takes time, any delays ripple thru the following ferry flights.

[Zac M]

I don’t think any of what Mark said had anything to do with that…

But NXQ is looking about ready to ferry.

[Ayden H]

VH-VZG re-entered service yesterday after spending 6 weeks in Brisbane. I believe it's fitted with split scimitars now but I haven't seen any pics to confirm.

[Ayden H]

VXO and XZA are both undergoing maintenance at BNE(the latter possibly a SSW retrofit), while VYB is at HKG.

[C Patters]

VH-VZG re-entered service yesterday after spending 6 weeks in Brisbane. I believe it's fitted with split scimitars now but I haven't seen any pics to confirm.

I think Ayden the only 737's getting the split scimitars are VZT-XZP which are the newer frames all which have the "Sky Interiors"

[Ayden H]

I think Ayden the only 737's getting the split scimitars are VZT-XZP which are the newer frames all which have the "Sky Interiors"

I saw photos of it in the maintenance hangar with its winglets removed having the same modifications done to its wing spar and root that the SSW units were.

[Ben W]

I see QF1 returned to SYD immediately after takeoff this afternoon. Any idea what the issue was? VH-OQJ was the aircraft.

[Michael Mak]

ZNC is finally back in air, ferrying PER-MEL as QF6116. It has been on the ground since August 24 in PER after sustaining damage to the flaps and wing on take off in FCO due to a tyre thread separation.

[James Smith]

Originally posted by Ben W
I see QF1 returned to SYD immediately after takeoff this afternoon. Any idea what the issue was? VH-OQJ was the aircraft.
19th September 2024 12:51 PM

After returning to SYD yesterday QF 1 departed at 20:12 for SIN still operated by VH-OQJ.

[Zac M]

Reported on Facebook as a medical return

[MarkR]

VYB must be coming back soon, she was sitting on the apron outside the hanger in HKG a couple of hours ago all locked up

[MarkR]

25 years since OJH went golfing in BKK, time flys, scrapped in 2013

[Greg Hyde]

VH-NXQ has departed Canberra for VCV

[Ayden H]

And then there were three (YQS, YQW and YQY)

[Laurent Sanhard]

and yesterday's QF2 was over 14hrs late , arrived on time in Singapore from London , but seems to have been delayed in Singapore ?

[MarkR]

Crew had a big night at the GP and called in sick?

[C Patters]

Looks like VZG is stuck in Perth since September 18th. Has only just returned from service recently after having undergone maintenance in Brisbane.

[Ben W]

QF93 is diverting to AKL. Would this be fuel related? The diversion popped up on Flightrader24 about 15 minutes after takeoff from LAX. It also left almost 3 hours late out of LAX.

[Brenden S]

VZG had a tyre let go out of Sydney, Flew to Perth and is grounded here waiting for new flaps to be fitted.

[Lauren J]

Does anyone know what's happening with VH-VQG (Jetstar A320)? It flew to XSP on the 8th of August and hasn't flown since. Is it being transferred to Network?

[Rowan McKeever]

QF93 is diverting to AKL. Would this be fuel related? The diversion popped up on Flightrader24 about 15 minutes after takeoff from LAX. It also left almost 3 hours late out of LAX.

Assume you mean QF94 and given (1) the 3 hour delay and (2) you say the diversion came up on FR24 shortly after departure from LAX, I'd say it's likely a crew change as the delay may have pushed the crew beyond their available hours.

[C Patters]

VZG had a tyre let go out of Sydney, Flew to Perth and is grounded here waiting for new flaps to be fitted.

Thanks Brenden! Looks like Qantas have had some issues with blown tyres of recent with ZNC having similar issues

[Michael Mak]

ZNC re-entered revenue service today flying QF773 MEL-PER, possibly then operating QF9 PER-LHR.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-NXQ has completed her ferry to VCV

[MarkR]

VYB ferried back from HKG yesterday, straight back into service this morning

[MarkR]

First A380 service with QF to JHB started today.

https://www.flightradar24.com/QFA63/37531a2d

[James Smith]

VH-OQH operated the first QANTAS A380 service to JNB yesterday, which returns to SYD today.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-NXO wad deleted from the VH-Reg on 02/10/2024

[MarkR]

ZNG just landed in HKG after operating QF187 overnight, which is an orphan flight number, next stop LCA?

[David C]

ZNG just landed in HKG after operating QF187 overnight, which is an orphan flight number, next stop LCA?


Without sounding too ignorant , what is a “ orphan flight number “ ?

Dave C

[MarkR]

Without sounding too ignorant , what is a “ orphan flight number “ ?

Dave C

One that is used for one off flights as regular passenger transport, as opposed to ferry or charter numbers. Last time QF187 flew it was six months ago Syd-CHC. It might well be extra capacity for school holidays/end of golden week utilising a commercial flight with the aircraft then being towed to Haeco.

[Michael Mak]

I believe ZNG is there for maintenance, the flight has been scheduled for a little while?

[Michael Mak]

ZNC is operating SYD-LCA as ASY1258, currently just above Coober Pedy, estimated flight time of 17 hours 22 minutes.

[MarkR]

I believe ZNG is there for maintenance, the flight has been scheduled for a little while?

Thanks Michael, good to see QF at least getting some revenue from the flight.

[Greg Hyde]

ZNC is operating SYD-LCA as ASY1258, currently just above Coober Pedy, estimated flight time of 17 hours 22 minutes.

Aren't these flights to Cyprus to be pick up evacuees from Beirut ?

[Michael Cleary]

Yes, to pick up those who have been flown from Beirut to Larnaca on other chartered flights. Seems to be operating under an RAAF callsign.

Supposed to be another in a couple of days.

[MarkR]

Yes, to pick up those who have been flown from Beirut to Larnaca on other chartered flights. Seems to be operating under an RAAF callsign.

Supposed to be another in a couple of days.

Ausy is a government callsign for flights to and from Aus, HiFly also used it when they did the ADF charter contract.

[Zac M]

VH-YQY finished up flying tonight with QF1501 from Sydney to Canberra

VH-YQS should finish up after QF1573 CFS-MEL on Sunday 13/10

VH-YQW should have the honours of the final B717, at this stage the final day of ops is as follows-
QF1500 CBR-SYD 0600-0655
QF1503 SYD-CBR 0735-0830
QF1504 CBR-SYD 0910-1005
QF1563 SYD-LST 1205-1350
QF1562 LST-SYD 1430-1610
QF1511 SYD-CBR 1655-1750

[MarkR]

VH-YQW should have the honours of the final B717,

Good to see, end of an era, I would hope she was non negotiable material when it came to disposal, given she is the last production aircraft where Qantas flew both the first and last, but she is probably heading east rather than south….Zac, when are the final ops?

[Zac M]

YQY ended up continuing operations today due to YQW having some issues

[Ayden H]

YQY operated its final flight yesterday as QF1505 SYD-CBR. Set to ferry to VCV for disposal by end of month.

[Stirling D]

XZA has emerged from the BNE hangar with SSW.

[Chris Z]

VXC in Townsville.

[C Patters]

Why would they bother repainting VXC when it’s one of the first to go with the fleet renewal? Surely the XZ rego series would be a better choice for a repaint ��*♂️

[Kent Broadhead]

I was just about to ask whether this was a repaint or pre-retirement. Maybe for whatever reason its cycles are noticably lower than its fleet-mates of a similar age?

[Brenden S]

VXA-VXP are all being retired next year from what I believe.

[Greg Hyde]

Qantas to Conclude Boeing 717 Scheduled Service on 26OCT24

Qantas in recent schedule update filed last Boeing 717 aircraft scheduled operation, as the airline plans to conclude the aircraft type’s operation on 26OCT24. On 26OCT24, the Boeing 717 operated by QantasLink (National Jet Systems) is scheduled to operate Sydney – Canberra and Sydney – Launceston route.
Planned Boeing 717 schedule on 26OCT24 as follows.
QF1500 CBR0600 – 0655SYD
QF1503 SYD0735 – 0830CBR
QF1504 CBR0910 – 1005SYD
QF1563 SYD1205 – 1350LST
QF1562 LST1430 – 1610SYD
QF1511 SYD1655 – 1750CBR

https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/241015-qfoct24717

Haven't with Zacs post (above)

[Greg Hyde]

QANTAS INTERNATIONAL NETWORK TO GROW WITH 220,000 MORE SEATS, NEW AIRCRAFT AND NEW ROUTE

Published on 16th October 2024
Changes to key routes to the US, Asia and the Pacific
Qantas to launch new route to Palau
More seats for customers as A380s return in 2025; new A220s join fleet
First international route confirmed for A220

Qantas is boosting its international network with new aircraft and a new destination, as well as schedule changes which will better utilise its fleet and support growing customer demand in key Asia Pacific and US markets.

From February 2025, the national carrier will add around 220,000 seats to its international network over 12 months compared to its current schedule. This is made possible by the launch of its new Brisbane – Palau route, the return of two Airbus A380s following maintenance and cabin modifications, as well as the arrival of more next-generation A220 aircraft for QantasLink.

More seats to the United States

The changes will see Qantas boost capacity to the United States by 13 per cent, offering 30 per cent more premium seats for customers on long-haul flights with the return of more A380s to the network from next August. Customers will benefit from the return of the airline’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft to Brisbane, with the option of Premium Economy and more seats when travelling to Los Angeles and Auckland.

New route from Brisbane to Palau

The national carrier has also today announced it will add Palau to its map for the first time, operating weekly flights from Brisbane to the Pacific Island with its 737 aircraft*.
The service, known as the ‘Palau Paradise Express’ will operate as part of a contract awarded to Qantas by the Federal Government and will help maintain strong trade and tourism links between Australia and Palau. Qantas customers will also have access to a new leisure destination on the airline’s network, with Palau renowned for its pristine waters, unique marine life and a haven for divers and hikers.

The route is expected to commence in the coming months and flights will go on sale in the next few weeks.

Boost to new Darwin to Singapore route

QantasLink’s new A220 aircraft will make its debut on the international network when the airline commences flying between Darwin and Singapore in March*.
Originally due to launch with the Embraer E190, the larger 137-seat A220 will operate five times per week, offering over 70,000 seats on the route every year.
QantasLink has taken delivery of the first four of 29 A220 jet aircraft, which are steadily replacing its long-serving fleet of Boeing 717s as part of the Qantas Group’s fleet renewal program.

With almost double the range of the 717s, the A220 can fly between any two points in Australia and opens opportunities for new short-haul international routes, like Darwin-Singapore. The aircraft is currently operating on a number of domestic and regional routes.

Changes to Seoul flights

From mid-June 2025, Qantas will cease flying between Sydney and Seoul, while Jetstar will increase flights from four per week to daily. This swap will result in an overall increase in seats between the cities and better serve the strong leisure demand for the route.

A full summary of the changes is outlined below. Customers who have already booked on flights with schedule changes will be contacted directly in the coming days.
Comments – to be attributed to Qantas Group International CEO, Cam Wallace
“We’re so excited to be offering our customers more than 220,000 additional seats on our network, a new international destination, and our brand-new A220 aircraft for our Singapore – Darwin flights, which will be the first of its kind to operate out of Singapore.
“We’re also looking forward to seeing more of our A380s return to the skies and offering more premium seats for customers to book to some of our popular international destinations.

“As part of our historic fleet renewal program, these changes are about having the right aircraft on the right route and responding to growing customer demand.

“One of the benefits of our dual brand strategy is the flexibility we have with our combined Qantas and Jetstar fleets.

“Qantas launched flights to Seoul after the pandemic, and now that demand has normalised, it’s grown substantially as a leisure market, opening up a great opportunity for Jetstar to increase its frequencies and allow Qantas to redeploy its aircraft to other routes where we are seeing strong demand.

“This growth is good news for our people and also allows us to offer more choice for our customers travelling around the Qantas network.”

https://www.qantasnewsroom.com.au/media-releases/qantas-international-network-to-grow-with-220000-more-seats-new-aircraft-and-new-route/

[Ben L]

YQY is due to leave the country tomorrow via Pago Pago and Kona to VCV

[Greg Hyde]

YQY is due to leave the country tomorrow via Pago Pago and Kona to VCV

YQY has completed her ferry to VCV

[Ayden H]

YQW has been parked in Syd since Tuesday which leads me to believe it will be YQS doing the honours tomorrow.

[Zac M]

YQW will operate the last flight

[Steve S... 2]

VXC has arrived back in Sydney after spending two weeks in Townsville. Anyone know what paint it is now wearing?

[Ayden H]

VXC has arrived back in Sydney after spending two weeks in Townsville. Anyone know what paint it is now wearing?

Silver Roo

[Steve S... 2]

Thanks Ayden! How very odd - it is so old and due to be retired.

[Stirling D]

VXQ on the way to the paint shop - SYD-TSV QF6122

[C Patters]

Can someone explain what is going on here?? Both VXC & VXQ are due to be retired first why would they repaint them?? VXQ was only repainted a few years ago into the retro livery. Surely the XZ series are due for a repaint now given they are coming into 10 yrs old & will be in the fleet for years to come. What a waste of money!!

[Ayden H]

VXQ on the way to the paint shop - SYD-TSV QF6122

Hopefully just for a touch up and not a repaint into Silver Roo, unless they paint another aircraft into Retro Roo II that'll leave only XZP

[Brenden S]

Remember when OGG was repainted and retired 6 months later.....

[Zac M]

YQW had a compressor stall out of Canberra this morning so YQS will now have the honours of last flight

[Ayden H]

Retroactively correct lmao

[Raymond Rowe]

Well done Sydney airport. The final 717 flight was well done.Would not have happened here in Melbourne. Our airport is not spotter friendly.

[Chris Z]

VXQ

[Tristan S]

Hopefully just for a touch up and not a repaint into Silver Roo, unless they paint another aircraft into Retro Roo II that'll leave only XZP

Confirmed as being de-Retro Roo II'd and back into standard livery.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/8futPndBvWV6fSEs/

[Greg Hyde]

YQW ferried from Sydney to Canberra yesterday.

Unconfirmed reports that it may be staying in Oz as an IA.

[Mitchell M.]

Sorry for sounding uninformed, but what is an IA?

[Lauren J]

I am guessing it stands for Instructional Aide; like a teaching resource.

[Greg Hyde]

Instructional Airframe

[Brenden S]

I doubt it Greg as they were all sold to Delta.

[Zac M]

That is certainly going around the place, including the tech crew

[MarkR]

I doubt it Greg as they were all sold to Delta.

YQW was not owned by Qantas at the time the sale to Delta was made, so I doubt it was part of the deal

[Ayden H]

It was leased from Boeing Capital Corporation until February last year

[James R]

When is YQS expected to ferry out of CBR?

[Ben L]

YQS is scheduled to leave tomorrow morning. CBR APW KOA VCV

[Stuart McCarthy]

YQW is flight planned CBR-PER tomorrow as QJE6215

[Zac M]

Still not too sure why, can’t find any further movement once it’s there

[Tony JC]

To potentially cover for Network flying due to serviceability issues.

[lloyd fox]

Yes VH-VQQ flew to BNE yesterday for some TLC in Hangar 3.:)

[Greg Hyde]

YQS is scheduled to leave tomorrow morning. CBR APW KOA VCV

Blink and you will miss it all this morning, YQS is on its way to VCV

[Greg Hyde]

So much for the last B717 revenue flights !

YQW about to depart for PER via Kalgoorlie

[Brenden S]

Arrived direct from CBR. Will be doing PER-PBO-PER-PBO-PER ops for November at this stage.

[Greg Hyde]

YQW is scheduled to enter service this morning as QJE1264 on the PBO run.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-YQT was deleted from the VH-reg 05/11/24

[Brenden S]

YQW ops PER-PBO-PER Monday to Friday until 26th November at this stage.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-YQS has completed her ferry to VCV.

[MarkR]

VH-VYH lost an engine on departure today operating QF520 and returned to SYD

[Ayden H]

VH-VYH operating QF520 from SYD to BNE has turned back after the right engine failed t during takeoff. It is believed to have caused a grass fire on the eastern side of runway 34R at Sydney.

[Ayden H]

VH-VYH lost an engine on departure today operating QF520 and returned to SYD

Beat me to it!

[Brenden S]

How many engine failures has there been in the past 12 months?

[Lauren J]

Qantas will repaint the “Retro Roo II” livery onto another 737, since VXQ will be one of the first retired.

[Robert.M]

But why repaint it when it going to be retired?

[Greg Hyde]

But why repaint it when it going to be retired?

They didn't want Retro-Roo livery to photographed in a breakers yard.

When they retire frames they paint over references to QF.

[Robert.M]

They just could have painted (cheaply) over it before heading to the bone yard.

[Brenden S]

Qantas has a history of painting aircraft and then selling/scrapping them a short time later.

[Ayden H]

Can confirm that VH-VXQ will go back to its old name of 'Redland'.

[Jason Carruthers]

Or maybe they can paint one of the newer 737s in a different breed of retro roo.

https://i.ibb.co/VmbbQ0G/australian737v2.png

I know it won't happen, but I thought I'd share the concept I did anyway. Also did a A321 version.

https://i.ibb.co/3rjH6xd/qantasbluerooa321v2a321.png

[Lauren J]

It would be great to have a retro version of the 1984 livery.

[Ayden H]

Qantas will repaint the “Retro Roo II” livery onto another 737, since VXQ will be one of the first retired.

It'll likely be a VZ or XZ with the split scimitars.

[Steve S... 2]

VXQ returned to service tonight after paint. Now VXF has ferried to TSV for paint.

[C Patters]

Does anyone know why OQD is positioning to LHR from LAX currently?

[Ayden H]

QF2?

[MarkR]

Probably the church return charter

[Greg Hyde]

QON has her "Dasher-8" stickers from Xmas

[C Patters]

Does anyone know if ZNH which has recently returned from HK maintenance has had the "Go Australia" decals removed given the Olympics have well & truly passed?

[Gavan L]

Yes can confirm, the Go Australia decal has been removed!

[C Patters]

Great news Gavan thanks!

[C Patters]

Interesting video of EBB missing its left hand side winglet! Must have been damaged & is awaiting repair. I'm guessing that there would be some performance losses due it missing?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ta6YFVfw3f0

[Ayden H]

It's an A300 masquerading as an A330

[Brenden S]

Boeing 717 VH-YQW operated the last scheduled passenger Boeing 717 flight in Australia today as QJet 1265 PBO-PER. The aircraft will ferry to the East Coast and will be donated to Aviation Australia in December.

[Greg Hyde]

We've heard that before !

[Rowan McKeever]

Apparently YQW is scheduled to fly CBR-BNE on Thursday morning so I assume she's flying PER-CBR today?

[Alex Ch]

Hull loss accident in Vilnius this week was ex 737-476 VH-TJT


https://www.avherald.com/h?article=520c0e2b&opt=0

[Ayden H]

Already mentioned in the international section.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-YQW is scheduled to fly PER-CBR as QJE6200 later today.

[Stirling D]

Onwards to BNE as QF6215 tomorrow, 0905L dep, 0950L arr.

[Greg Hyde]

Have they made for it yet ?

[Brenden S]

YQW requires a C check on the 5th December, so no more commercial flying. The engines will be removed in BNE and then donated to AA.

[Greg Hyde]

I expected that it would have its engines removed and sent onto Delta.

[Ayden H]

I think he means the aircraft. I don't think the engines are going to Delta as YQW wasn't sold to them like the rest.

[Brenden S]

The airframe is being donated to AA, Engines are either going to Delta or Hawaiian

[Greg Hyde]

VH-NXQ was deleted from the VH-Reg on 26/11/24

[Greg Hyde]

YQW which should be renamed Dame Nellie Melba or John Farnham (for the number of flights after final was announced) is scheduled to ferry to Brisbane (where are those nay-sayers now) as QJE6215, departing CBR at 11:25AM AEDT with an ETA BNE at 11:46AM AEST for probably the last B717 flight in Australia

[Stirling D]

YQW is operating QF6216 CBR-SYD, departing at 1200L

[Greg Hyde]

YQW which should be renamed Dame Nellie Melba or John Farnham (for the number of flights after final was announced) is scheduled to ferry to Brisbane (where are those nay-sayers now) as QJE6215, departing CBR at 11:25AM AEDT with an ETA BNE at 11:46AM AEST for probably the last B717 flight in Australia

The names fit, YQW is now scheduled to do QJE1503, Sydney to Hobart.

[Rowan McKeever]

Following which it will operate QF1522 back to SYD, then position to BNE tomorrow (Friday).

[Greg Hyde]

Heard that before

[Chris Z]

Well…..one can only hope this is an opportunity for them to paint it in a TAA livery when they remove the QF marks…..one can only wish.

[Brian Wilkes]

Why?????

[Steve S... 2]

Would have been nicer to see it donated to HARS rather than Aviation Australia.

[Brenden S]

HARS do not have the capacity to look after another large aircraft.

[Steve S... 2]

I imagine a 717 would eat a lot.

[MarkR]

Another rotation today to HBA for YQW

This was posted on a frequent flyer forum and made me laugh:

https://i.ibb.co/mFBwPJ0/IMG-0306.jpg (https://ibb.co/Dgbyj4Y)

[lloyd fox]

Would have been nicer to see it donated to HARS rather than Aviation Australia.

No the MD-95 will look nicer sitting next to it's big brother the MD-82 at BNE;)

[Chris Z]

Why?????

Why not?

[Brian Wilkes]

Why not?

They never operate the aircraft that's why!

[Stuart McCarthy]

YQW just planned CBR-SYD as QJE6204

[Greg Hyde]

Farnsy or Melba has been on the SYD-CBR-SYD run today.

"It is not all over till the fat lady sings"

[Michael Mak]

YQW is back in SYD with a ferry flight number 6204. More revenue flights tomorrow?

[Stuart McCarthy]

YQW planned SYD-HBA-SYD Monday.

[MarkR]

Crew need a day off!

[Ryan K]

A220 flights seem to be cancelled an awful lot. Is it crewing issues or reliability issues? Last night's SYD-HBA cancelled, with most passengers told they'd have to wait another 24 hours to fly home. I was one of these passengers and the agent told me that the flights today are now "overbooked." Hardly filled me with confidence!

[Greg Hyde]

You may score a B717 flight. Could be the last, who knows ?

[Lauren J]

A220 flights seem to be cancelled an awful lot. Is it crewing issues or reliability issues?

I think it's a bit of both. The A220 fleet worldwide has had terrible reliability due to poor engines and general supply chain issues; even the world's largest operators like Delta and Air Canada have had to ground a large portion of their fleet. I saw recently that a third of all Airbus new narrowbody aircraft (NEO and A220) are currently grounded over reliability concerns.
Expect the same with Qantas' A321XLR.

[MarkR]

At this stage it’s a lack of crew owing to the poor conditions, pure and simple.