Qantas updates charges for extra legroom seats

Thursday, April 4, 2024

Qantas has announced minor increases in the fees for selecting extra legroom seats on both domestic and international flights. A significant update concerns the strategic travelers familiar with the ‘T-80 rule,’ which involves choosing a seat in row 4 of the Boeing 737 economy cabin. Traditionally, this row has been exclusively available to top-tier flyers like Qantas Platinum One and Chairman’s Lounge members without charge. However, 80 hours before departure, these seats, among others reserved for Platinum and Gold frequent flyers, become available to all passengers, regardless of their frequent flyer status.

Starting from April 18, the coveted row 4 seats on the Boeing 737 will be categorized as extra legroom seats, incurring an additional fee ranging from $35 to $70 based on the flight’s length. It’s important to note that Platinum One and Chairman’s Lounge members will not be subject to these new charges for row 4 seats, and they will not lose early access to these seats. This change aims to benefit these elite members by reducing the competition for premium seats during the T-80 window.

Qantas’ New Extra Legroom Charges:

• Short-range domestic flights on Boeing 737 and Airbus A330, covering distances up to 750 miles, will have their extra legroom seat charges increased from $30 to $35.
• For medium-range domestic routes between 751-1500 miles, the fee will rise from $40 to $45.
• The cost for extra legroom on the longest domestic flights will range from $70 to $75.
• Regional flights on Boeing 717 and Embraer E190 jets will see an increase from $15 to $20 for extra legroom seats.
• Extra legroom charges on the Airbus A220 are still under consideration.
• Short-range international flights to New Zealand and Fiji will have their extra legroom seat charges increased from $30 to $35, with medium-range flights to Asia and Honolulu rising from $80 to $85.
• For Qantas’ longest international flights to destinations like the UK, Europe, the Americas, and South Africa, the cost for selecting an extra legroom economy seat will increase from $180 to $195.

This adjustment in extra legroom charges by Qantas reflects the evolving dynamics in airline travel and tourism, indicating a shift towards optimizing comfort and enhancing the travel experience for passengers, while also preserving the privileges of its most loyal customers. This strategy could impact global travel trends by influencing passenger choices and preferences for seating options and airline selection.

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