Qantas steps up domestic capacity

The Qantas Group is planning to increase capacity on domestic Qantas, Jetstar and QantasLink routes during 2012/13 to strengthen its network in the business and leisure markets. A range of changes, including aircraft upgrades and additional frequencies, will be made to provide greater choice and convenience for customers. Qantas will add extra services during peak times on core east coast business routes between Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. The carrier will also The reintroduce Boeing 747 services on the Sydney-Perth route and more Airbus A330 services on the Melbourne-Perth route will increase capacity in the east-west market and give more customers access to the award-winning Skybed product in business class. Jetstar will increase capacity on routes between east coast capitals and major leisure destinations and QantasLink will increase capacity across Queensland with the introduction of F100 jet services between Brisbane and Emerald, complementing Q400 services and providing cascaded growth in key regional markets. Further details about routes and timing will be announced in due course. These measures are being rolled out to ensure that the Qantas Group maintains its profit-maximising 65 per cent market share, while retaining the flexibility to adjust planned capacity growth according to market conditions. Qantas Chief Executive Officer Alan Joyce said the Group was focused on delivering the best network, frequency and service in every part of the market. “The Qantas Group’s portfolio of airlines and the 8.5 million-member Qantas Frequent Flyer program give us a clear advantage over our competitors. “With Qantas we are targeting our key east coast and east-west business markets – providing an international-standard flying experience on Perth services operated by the Boeing 747 and Airbus A330. “Jetstar continues to focus on servicing profitable leisure markets and pursuing growth opportunities across Australia, with significant capacity increases planned on major routes. “Over recent years we have invested consistently in our domestic operations, with fleet renewal for both Qantas and Jetstar, the launch of cutting-edge new check-in technology, the acquisition of Network Aviation to serve the resources market and the trial of the ‘Q Streaming’ wi-fi inflight entertainment system. Our corporate customers and frequent flyers have responded positively – we are now seeing the most consistent levels of high satisfaction in the domestic network since 2004. “We know that network and frequency are key to customer satisfaction and the changes we are announcing today mean we will offer even better service in both areas. “Our goal in the domestic market remains simple and consistent: we intend to retain the 65 per cent market share that enables us to maximise yield and profit. “Alongside a comprehensive transformation program for Qantas International and the continued growth of Jetstar in Asia, our robust domestic businesses position us strongly for sustainable growth over the long term.”