In a significant expansion of its international flight network, Qantas has announced the launch of direct flights from Darwin to Singapore, starting from December 2024. This move introduces a new, convenient one-stop route from Darwin to numerous destinations in Europe and Asia via Singapore, notably offering the fastest travel option for Territorians heading to London.
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The introduction of this route is expected to add over 60,000 seats annually, providing a substantial boost to tourism and business travel. The service is not just beneficial for Territorians travelling to Singapore, but also streamlines the journey to London, Europe, and Southeast Asia. Qantas customers will notably save approximately five hours of flying time to London, bypassing the need to transit through other Australian capitals.
Starting 9th December 2024, the flights will operate five times weekly, using the dual-class Embraer E190 aircraft, with plans to increase to daily services from March 2025. This route, facilitated by the E190’s range and economics, follows the 2022 launch of international flights to Dili from Darwin.
Qantas International CEO, Cam Wallace, expressed excitement over this new addition, highlighting its benefits in strengthening ties between Australia and Singapore, and offering quicker connections to various destinations. He also underscored the restoration of the UK link, a critical route established post-pandemic.
The Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Joel Bowden, welcomed this new service, emphasizing its significance for Darwin’s aviation capacity and its benefits for both local and business travellers. He praised Qantas for reinforcing the Territory’s status as a prime destination for international visitors.
Qantas has a storied history with the Darwin-Singapore route, being a part of the original 1935 Kangaroo Route to London. The service has evolved from a five-stop, four-and-a-half-day journey to a swift four hours and 45 minutes direct flight.
The airline last operated direct flights between Darwin and Singapore in 2006. The new service, therefore, marks a welcome return to a route with historical significance.
Eligible Qantas customers and Frequent Flyers will enjoy access to the Qantas Club in Darwin and the Qantas International First or Business Lounge at Singapore’s Changi Airport. The fares for the new route start at $690 return, with bookings available from today through Qantas’s website and travel agents.
Qantas currently operates 18 routes from Darwin, Alice Springs, and Uluru, including non-stop options to eight domestic destinations. The airline also offers a range of one-stop international destinations from Darwin via Singapore, with competitive return fares to various global cities.
This development represents a significant milestone in Qantas’s commitment to expanding its international footprint and offering more convenient travel options to its customers. The new Darwin-Singapore route not only provides direct access to a key Asian hub but also opens up a world of possibilities for travellers seeking to explore Europe and Asia with greater ease and efficiency.
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