Qantas is poised to create aviation history by introducing its inaugural direct flights from Australia to Las Vegas. The airline intends to inaugurate a new seasonal service linking Sydney (SYD) with Las Vegas (LAS), signifying the first regularly scheduled nonstop flight connecting these two locales. This route will operate three times weekly from December 29, 2026, through March 12, 2027.
The flight timetable is as follows:
– QF55 Sydney to Las Vegas departs at 9:00 PM, arriving at 3:55 PM.
– QF56 Las Vegas to Sydney departs at 8:20 PM, arriving at 6:35 AM two days later.
The 7,720-mile trip will be conducted using a Boeing 787-9, which features 236 seats: 42 in business class, 28 in premium economy, and 166 in economy. The eastbound flight is planned for 13 hours and 55 minutes, while the westbound journey is set for 15 hours and 15 minutes.
Cam Wallace, Qantas International CEO, emphasized the significant interest in international travel among Australians, pointing out that the airline’s fleet renewal opens up new route opportunities. Las Vegas marks Qantas’ 101st destination, showcasing the airline’s plan to enhance its global network.
The timing of this new service is strategic, coinciding with peak travel periods and major events in Las Vegas, such as the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) and the Las Vegas Festival, which attract many Australian tourists. Australia is the leading international market lacking a nonstop flight to Las Vegas, with over 250,000 Aussies visiting the city each year.
Although this route is a temporary service, it is anticipated to be well-received due to its strategic timing and the uniqueness of a direct link between Australia and Las Vegas. Nonetheless, it is not expected to evolve into a year-round operation, with possible future services potentially including nonstop flights to additional U.S. cities like Chicago or Seattle.
To summarize, Qantas’ new seasonal route between Sydney and Las Vegas represents a strategic addition that leverages peak travel interest and major events, delivering a unique nonstop connection for the first time.