Qantas’s proposed tie-up with Emirates will enable the carrier to refocus resources on Asia, executive manager international sales Stephen Thompson has explained.
Speaking at ATEC Meeting Place 2012, Thompson said placing its code on Emirates global services would enable it to build flying resources on trans-Tasman, trans-Pacific and Asian routes.
He specifically highlighted “significant improvements” to its Asian network. From April next year, its capacity to Asia will grow 40% as European capacity goes via Dubai. Seats to Singapore alone will grow 25% from that date.
The increase will also provide greater connectivity with its Asian partners, he added.
“The partnership with Emirates is certainly a very significant proposition for us. It’s not going to solve all of our problems but it’s an important part of the network and our strategy to turn it around,” Thompson said.
“It really does allow us to reposition and make sure the Qantas presence throughout Asia when combined with Jetstar Asia is something incredibly important for the Qantas group and tourism into Australia, as well as markets out of Australia.”
Singapore will remain the primary hub, Thompson confirmed.
“We will be providing Australia with a better proposition into some of the worlds fastest growing markets,” he said.
He confirmed the airline would be making further announcements around Asia over the coming months.
Meanwhile, Thompson highlighted the launch of Perth-Auckland services as a distinct possibility when the two carriers coordinate their schedules.
