Qantas Expands Its Reach To South Australia, Launching First International Route From Adelaide In Over A Decade With New Auckland Service To Fuel Economic Growth

Published on November 3, 2025

Qantas is expanding its reach to South Australia by launching its first international route from Adelaide in over a decade, with a new direct service to Auckland. This strategic move is set to fuel economic growth by enhancing global connectivity, boosting tourism, and creating more opportunities for business and trade between South Australia and New Zealand. The return of international flights from Adelaide opens up seamless travel options, benefiting both leisure travelers and local industries that rely on stronger international links.

Qantas has made a major move in expanding its international network by launching its first international service from Adelaide in over a decade. The inaugural flight from Adelaide to Auckland took off today, marking a historic moment for both the airline and the South Australian region. This new direct route will provide a significant boost to connectivity between the two cities, offering over 30,000 additional seats and strengthening travel options for both leisure and business travelers.

The direct flights between Adelaide and Auckland will operate four times a week, providing convenience for passengers traveling between South Australia and New Zealand. Qantas has chosen the Boeing 737-800 aircraft for the route, which offers passengers a comfortable and efficient flying experience. This new service will continue until early May, giving travelers the opportunity to enjoy the added convenience of direct international flights during this period.

The launch of the Adelaide-Auckland route is a significant milestone for Qantas, as it marks the airline’s return to international flying from Adelaide. For many years, travelers from South Australia have had to rely on connecting flights through other cities like Sydney or Melbourne to reach destinations like Auckland. Now, they can enjoy the convenience of a direct flight, reducing both travel time and the complexity of their journey.

For South Australians, this new international connection opens up new possibilities for travel. The direct flight to Auckland not only provides easy access to New Zealand but also creates a seamless link to other international destinations. Passengers can now take advantage of Qantas’ extensive global network, which includes connections to major cities such as New York. Travelers can reach New York in approximately 21 hours with just one stop in Auckland, making it a more convenient option for those seeking to visit the United States from South Australia.

Qantas has seen significant growth in its international network over the past 18 months, and the airline is pleased to bring this expansion to South Australia. The increased connectivity is part of Qantas’ broader strategy to enhance its global presence and provide more travel options for customers. With more flights and better access to international destinations, the airline is making it easier for South Australians to explore the world and for international travelers to visit the region.

The new Auckland service also brings an economic boost to South Australia. Tourism plays a vital role in the state’s economy, and the return of Qantas international flights from Adelaide will further strengthen the region’s ties to New Zealand, which is South Australia’s fourth-largest tourism market. In fact, New Zealand’s visitor numbers to South Australia have grown by 42% over the past year, contributing a substantial $93 million to the state’s economy.

This growth is a testament to the increasing popularity of South Australia as a travel destination, and the new direct flight to Auckland will likely encourage even more tourism from New Zealand. By offering a quicker and more convenient route, Qantas is helping to drive tourism growth, benefiting both the airline and the local economy.

The launch of the Adelaide to Auckland route also reflects the growing demand for international travel from South Australia. Adelaide Airport has been at the forefront of efforts to meet the needs of travelers, and the introduction of this direct service further cements the airport’s status as a hub for both domestic and international travel. The airport’s leadership in securing this important route highlights its commitment to enhancing the state’s connectivity and providing better travel options for its residents.

In addition to leisure and tourism benefits, the new route is expected to bring opportunities for business and trade between South Australia and New Zealand. As the two regions continue to strengthen their economic ties, the direct flight will provide a more efficient way for businesses to connect, facilitating easier access for professionals and exporters who need to travel between the two countries.

Adelaide’s return to international flights with Qantas marks a step forward in the region’s broader tourism and economic recovery efforts. The airline’s decision to offer this new service is a positive development for South Australia, providing more travel choices for both leisure and business passengers. It also underscores the importance of strong aviation connectivity in supporting tourism and local economies.

Qantas is expanding its reach to South Australia by launching its first international route from Adelaide in over a decade, with a new Auckland service. This move will fuel economic growth by boosting tourism, enhancing global connectivity, and providing more business opportunities.

The new Auckland route is a win for travelers, local businesses, and the broader South Australian community. By offering direct flights to New Zealand, Qantas is improving travel options for South Australians while also stimulating growth in tourism and international trade. The future looks bright for international travel from Adelaide, and this new connection is just the beginning of a broader effort to bring more flights, more destinations, and greater opportunities for the region.