In a refurbishment that is expected to be completed across 12 Airbus A380 aircraft by the end of 2020, Qantas has showcased the new fashionable design of the first in its fleet to get the upgrade treatment.
The significantly expanded upper deck lounge has been transformed by Australian designer David Caon, with wood panelled walls and deep green leather couches providing seating for 10 people. Customers will also be able to order from a range of bespoke snacks and light meals to be enjoyed in the lounge.
Qantas chef Neil Perry and his Rockpool team have created a menu of snacks and light meals to be enjoyed by First and Business Class customers in the redesigned upper deck lounge. Passengers will be able to chose from dishes including dry laska goreng with fishcakes and seared prawns to mushroom arancini in a tomato ragu as part of custom-designed menus for each route.
The Caon-designed Premium Economy seat, which made its debut on the Qantas Dreamliner fleet, also features as part of the multi-million dollar A380 fleet upgrade. while the Qantas Business Suite, dubbed “mini First” by the airline’s frequent flyers, has replaced the Skybed and provides direct aisle access for every passenger.
Qantas has also made several improvements for passengers travelling in the airline’s First cabin including:
– A refresh of the First Suite with new contoured cushioning and higher resolution entertainment screen.
– Redesigned Martin Grant sleeper suit in dark charcoal with a Henley neckline and burgundy trim introduced from November.
– New First amenity kits including socks made from bamboo cotton and new skin care products from Australian brand LaGaia Unedited.
– The LaGaia Unedited First amenities (launching onboard in November) that incorporate a Qantas-signature Australian native scent of lemon myrtle and geranium in a refreshing facial mist, accompanied by a moisturiser and lip balm. LaGaia Unedited products will be stocked in the First lavatories. From late November, LaGaia Unedited will move into Qantas’ Sydney and Melbourne First Lounge spa facilities.
Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said the upgrade would benefit customers in every cabin.
“Australians are used to flying long haul and we know it’s important to make the journey comfortable.
“We’re very proud to showcase the best of Australian design, wine and food on these services which will provide a step change in comfort.”
The capacity of Qantas A380s after the upgrade will be: 14 First Suites (unchanged), 70 Business Suites (up by six), 60 Premium Economy (up by 25) and 341 Economy (down by 30) for a total of 485 passengers (up by one).
