Qantas Sets Its Sights On US Nonstop Service To Las Vegas in 2026 as Rising Charter Success and Seasonal Travel Demand Drive Long-Term Network Growth

Published on December 10, 2025

Due to the growing popularity of its charter services and the growing demand for seasonal travel, Qantas plans to start nonstop flights to Las Vegas in 2026. The city’s appeal as a year-round destination has been strengthened by the airline’s charter flights for the National Rugby League, which have not only exceeded expectations in sports-related travel but also drawn a wider range of passengers. The airline’s long-term network expansion plans are supported by this rising demand as well as Qantas’s deliberate fleet expansion, especially with the Boeing 787. Las Vegas is now a strong candidate for Qantas’s US route expansion, providing a big chance to meet the growing demand from tourists for this exciting location.

Qantas, Australia’s flagship carrier, is actively evaluating the introduction of nonstop flights to Las Vegas, a destination that has seen rising seasonal demand and exceptional charter performance. Over the years, Las Vegas has become a serious contender in Qantas’s U.S. network, shifting from a distant future prospect to a potential near-term reality.

The airline’s plan to connect Australia with Las Vegas is underpinned by positive demand signals from the U.S. market and Qantas’s increasing reliance on its expanding fleet, particularly the Boeing 787. These aircraft, set to enter service by 2028, will be instrumental in enabling long-haul flights to destinations like Las Vegas.

Rising Demand and Charter Success

One of the key drivers of Qantas’s growing interest in Las Vegas is its successful charter operations in the region. Qantas has been running charter flights to Las Vegas in support of Australia’s National Rugby League season. These flights, which began in 2025, have proven more successful than initially anticipated, particularly with passenger uptake beyond sports-related travel.

In 2026, the National Rugby League plans to expand the event, featuring two matches involving teams from New South Wales and Queensland. This expansion will further boost travel flows to Las Vegas, reinforcing its appeal as a seasonal destination rather than a one-off event city. The strong performance of these charter services has led Qantas to reassess its approach to the Las Vegas market, with the carrier now viewing the city as a viable option for a seasonal route.

Seasonal Flights with the Boeing 787

Qantas is considering a seasonal Boeing 787 service as its likely entry point into the Las Vegas market. These seasonal flights would allow the airline to gauge the market’s response, including evaluating passenger load factors, demographic mix, and yield. As Las Vegas continues to demonstrate robust seasonal demand, Qantas is keen to test the waters before committing to a year-round service.

Fleet constraints have posed a challenge for Qantas in expanding its U.S. network. While the airline plans to use the Airbus A321XLR for some network growth, the most significant opportunity lies in the arrival of the Boeing 787 Dreamliners. With up to 12 of these aircraft set to join the Qantas fleet in 2028, they will provide the capacity and range required to launch new long-haul routes from Australia to destinations like Las Vegas.

However, Qantas has made it clear that no formal announcement will be made until a comprehensive evaluation of demand and aircraft availability is completed. The airline’s final decision will align with the planned delivery schedules for its new aircraft.

Gateway Options: Sydney, Brisbane, and Jetstar’s Role

While Sydney would likely serve as the default gateway for the Qantas-operated Las Vegas route, Jetstar, Qantas’s low-cost subsidiary, is also exploring the possibility of launching direct flights from Brisbane. With the strong market appeal of both cities and operational synergies, Jetstar’s interest in the Brisbane-Las Vegas route has been gaining momentum.

Jetstar’s fleet of Boeing 787 aircraft is set to undergo significant upgrades starting in 2026. These upgrades, including the addition of dedicated crew rest areas, will extend the aircraft’s operational range, making long-haul flights like Brisbane to Las Vegas technically feasible. Furthermore, the planned refit will enhance the passenger experience by increasing the business class capacity to 44 seats, offering passengers a more comfortable experience on extended flights.

This upgrade also includes the introduction of satellite-based Wi-Fi, which will provide uninterrupted connectivity on long-haul services. These enhancements position Jetstar to cater to the growing demand for low-cost long-haul flights, while still maintaining its affordable pricing structure.

Las Vegas: A New Wave of Attractions

Las Vegas has continually evolved over the years, transforming itself from a city of casinos to a destination offering diverse entertainment, immersive attractions, world-class dining, and an ever-changing cultural landscape. This ongoing transformation has significantly enhanced its appeal to international tourists, especially those seeking more than just gambling experiences.

The city’s attractions now feature immersive experiences and themed entertainment. Venues like AREA15 combine virtual reality, arcade gaming, and experiential installations, while The Sphere presents a revolutionary way to enjoy entertainment through digital art and robotic installations. These innovations have reshaped how visitors engage with the city’s vibrant offerings.

In addition to modern attractions, Las Vegas continues to celebrate its rich history. The Atomic Museum documents the pivotal moments of the Atomic Age, while the Punk Rock Museum offers a cultural experience with exhibits, retail spaces, and tattoo services. These cultural and interactive venues appeal to tourists seeking more diverse and meaningful experiences.

Beyond the Strip, downtown Las Vegas has also embraced local culture, with areas like the Fremont East Entertainment District offering a more authentic nightlife experience. Visitors can explore bars, music venues, restaurants, and street art that represent the heart and soul of the city. The growing interest in non-casino-related activities has further positioned Las Vegas as a well-rounded destination.

Sports and Entertainment Events

Live entertainment continues to be the cornerstone of Las Vegas’s tourism appeal. The city hosts year-round concerts, music festivals, and headliner residencies, drawing crowds from across the globe. Additionally, the arrival of professional sports teams has added an exciting new dimension to the city’s identity. The regular sporting calendar, combined with major events like the National Rugby League matches, ensures that there’s always something to attract visitors to Las Vegas.

Seasonal events and themed celebrations further bolster the city’s reputation as a year-round destination. From the iconic New Year’s Eve celebrations to Halloween festivities and beyond, Las Vegas ensures that its visitors can enjoy a unique experience no matter the time of year.

The Future of Qantas’s U.S. Expansion

Las Vegas remains a key focus for Qantas as the airline evaluates its U.S. network expansion. The airline’s commitment to exploring new destinations like Las Vegas demonstrates its readiness to adapt to changing travel trends and seize opportunities in emerging markets. With the growing demand for seasonal services and the arrival of new aircraft, Qantas is poised to offer travelers a seamless connection between Australia and Las Vegas, enhancing the city’s profile as a global travel destination.

The airline’s careful evaluation of Las Vegas, supported by data-backed insights, showcases Qantas’s focus on strategic growth. Whether through direct services operated by Qantas or potential routes by Jetstar, Las Vegas will play a pivotal role in the airline’s future plans.

As Qantas works toward establishing its presence in this dynamic market, the airline’s ultimate goal is to create a travel experience that aligns with the evolving needs and desires of travelers. The Las Vegas route, if finalized, promises to offer a valuable addition to Qantas’s U.S. network, combining the thrill of the city with the comfort and efficiency of long-haul flights.

Qantas is eyeing nonstop flights to Las Vegas in 2026, driven by successful charter operations and rising seasonal demand. The airline sees this route as a key opportunity for long-term network growth, supported by its expanding Boeing 787 fleet.

Qantas’s consideration of Las Vegas as a future nonstop destination marks an exciting development in the airline’s strategic growth plans. With the backing of successful charter services, a growing demand for long-haul travel, and the arrival of new aircraft, Las Vegas has emerged as a prime candidate for seasonal service from Australia. As the city continues to redefine its identity as a multifaceted tourism destination, Qantas is well-positioned to offer a direct connection that will strengthen ties between Australia and the U.S. Ultimately, this move reflects the airline’s commitment to staying ahead of travel trends and offering passengers an unforgettable travel experience.