Off the back of the relaxation of the WA border from 5 February, Qantas is launching a new non-stop route to Europe from Perth. The new service will fly from Sydney to Perth before continuing on to Rome, some 18 years since they last serviced Italy directly. The flights will be operated by the popular 787 Dreamliner in 3 class configuration. Whilst no First Class is offered on the Dreamliner, the Business Suites are a fantastic product for a comfortable long haul journey. Flights commence on 22 June through to 6 October, perfect for those looking to jet off for the European summer.

Qantas expects this service to be popular, citing that Rome attracts their highest levels of demand for continental Europe. They're no doubt looking for profitable opportunities to deploy their Dreamliner fleet, rather than resume services such as Brisbane-Chicago was never got off the ground once the borders were closed.

Initial pricing from Qantas looks to capitalise on strong demand for premium cabins next year, with business class fares ex-Perth on the market from $8464 including taxes, and from Sydney from $9534 including taxes. However, savvy frequent flyers may want to opt for Emirates operated flights via Dubai instead to maximise status credit accrual and keep pricing down, with significantly cheaper rates available via Dubai on sale until 12 January. See our Qantas Business Class Deals to Europe, starting from $6356 from Perth to Paris return. Following the demand based pricing trend from the likes of Qatar Airways and Etihad, Qantas/Emirates fares to Europe vary widely depending on your origin and destination, contact our consultants to discuss the best solution for your trip plans.

Flights will operate 3 times per week, departing Monday/Wednesday/Saturday from Australia and return Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. Qantas has maintained their mid-week/weekend pricing structure where the Saturday/Sunday flights are more expensive outbound and Thursday through Saturday flights cost more inbound, again this is a demand based decision given many look to maximise the weekends with their travel planning. A sample flight schedule is as follows...