Qantas‘ announcement of new direct flights between Adelaide and Auckland, along with its unveiling of a new business lounge at Adelaide Airport, has been described as “fantastic news” for South Australian travellers.
The seasonal service, which will commence in October 2025, marks the airline’s return to non-stop international flying from South Australia, adding more than 30,000 seats between the two cities.
“Today we’re celebrating two huge milestones in Adelaide – launching a new direct international flight and our first Qantas Business Lounge at Adelaide Airport,” Qantas Group CEO International Cam Wallace said. “This is fantastic news for our South Australian customers who will have access to a direct international flight to Auckland as well as opening up connections to New York via Auckland.”
The new route is expected to enhance international connectivity, especially for travellers heading to North America, with seamless access to Qantas’ QF3 service from Auckland to New York.
Premier of South Australia Peter Malinauskas welcomed the announcement. “It is great news that Qantas is re-establishing a direct international flight out of Adelaide with this new service to Auckland,” he said. “It also connects South Australians through to New York City with a single stop, strengthening our bond with a key economic and AUKUS partner.”
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Meanwhile, Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison emphasised the tourism impact. “This new service makes travel to South Australia easier for New Zealanders, who have long been a key source of tourism for our State,” she said. “New Zealand is presently the equal second biggest source market for visitation to South Australia – behind only the UK and equal with China. Tourism expenditure from New Zealand grew by 29% in the last year, with 48,000 visitors coming to South Australia in 2024.”
Coinciding with the flight launch, Qantas also opened its first Domestic Business Lounge in Adelaide. “For the millions of customers that visit our lounges, we know just how important it is to have a premium pre-flight experience and we’re so pleased to be bringing this to Adelaide today. The new lounge has been designed based off feedback and the features we know our customers value the most,” Wallace said.
The new lounge celebrates the best of South Australia featuring a market kitchen, inspired by the Adelaide Central Market, serving up dishes created by Qantas Creative Director of Food, Beverage and Service, Neil Perry and lighter snack options by Maggie Beer.
Brenton Cox, Managing Director of Adelaide Airport, praised the lounge for “showcasing the best of South Australia.”
