Qantas is continuing on with its international expansion announcing the return of international flights form the Gold Coast. After a 5-year hiatus, Qantas is planning to launch services between the Gold Coast and Auckland.
Commencing 16 June 2026, Qantas will operate three flights per week year-round from the Gold Coast to Auckland. This new service will connect the tourism capital of Queensland tourism capital with New Zealand. In turn, this will provide customers with enhanced connectivity across the Tasman.
By using a 737, Qantas will be able to offer both Business and Economy cabins. In fact, It means that Qantas will be the only airline offering Business class between the two cities. As a result, there is a benefit to both leisure and business travellers with the new service
Schedule
Qantas will operate the new route with its Boeing 737 aircraft, with flights on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Schedule wise, Across the year, that will mean an annual seat capacity of 52,000 seats.
Gold Coast (OOL) to Auckland (AKL) will operate as QF209, scheduled to depart the Gold Coast at 1:05pm and arriving in Auckland at 6:10pm.
According to Cam Wallace, CEO of Qantas International
Today marks a huge milestone for the Gold Coast with Qantas international services returning after almost five years. There’s been real demand for a premium option to Auckland and we’re the only airline offering business class on this route.
More flights – Sydney – Apia (Samoa) via Auckland
It isn’t the only expansion that Qantas is making on its Pacific services. Qantas also announced the launch of flights from Sydney to Apia (Samoa) via Auckland. This will provide Australian travellers with additional options to reach the Pacific through Auckland. Operating on alternate days to the airline’s direct Brisbane–Samoa flights, the new service creates near-daily Qantas connectivity between Australia and Samoa.
Final Words
Some interesting moves by Qantas. The announcement coincides with a few other announcements on the international front. Firstly, Qantas just began flights from Perth to Johannesburg and Auckland. In addition, Qantas will shortly be opening its new Auckland Lounge later this month.
