Qantas CEO Charts Course for Ambitious Fleet Overhaul and Green Fuel Future
Qantas is embarking on the most significant transformation in its history, with CEO Vanessa Hudson revealing a multi-billion dollar fleet renewal plan and championing the creation of a domestic sustainable aviation fuel industry.
Ms Hudson stated that developing a local sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) resource is firmly in the national interest. She highlighted the potential for this new sector to generate more than 13,000 jobs while bolstering Australia's fuel security.
"We think there is a great opportunity to work with the Australian government to find more of those opportunities and really set a course to create a new industry of sustainable aviation fuel in Australia," the CEO said.
A New Industry for Australia
With Qantas spending a colossal $5 billion a year on fuel, Ms Hudson believes Australia is uniquely positioned to lead in this space due to its strong agricultural sector, which can provide the necessary feedstock. She pointed to a pioneering operation in North Queensland that is converting sugar cane by-product into ethanol for aviation fuel as a promising example.
The federal government has already taken steps to support this vision, announcing in September a $1.1 billion contribution to kickstart the production of greener fuels following years of industry lobbying. Ms Hudson emphasised that ongoing government support remains crucial to achieving commercial viability for SAF.
Historic Fleet Renewal Takes Flight
Alongside the green fuel push, Ms Hudson confirmed the airline is progressing with its unprecedented fleet renewal, the largest in Qantas's history. This comprehensive overhaul includes:
- Renewing the entire Jetstar fleet.
- Upgrading the domestic narrow-body aircraft.
- Introducing the revolutionary Project Sunrise Airbus A350-1000s next year.
- Beginning the renewal of the international fleet thereafter.
The Project Sunrise aircraft will enable direct, non-stop flights from Sydney and Melbourne to New York and London. As these planes are built in Toulouse, a dedicated Australian team is preparing for their historic entry into service.
Celebrating two years as CEO, Ms Hudson credited a renewed focus on operational basics for turning the airline's fortunes around. "At the top of the list is on-time performance and reliability," she said, noting that Qantas Domestic has reclaimed its position as the nation's most reliable airline.
"We hold the fact that Australians have pride in Qantas close to our heart," Ms Hudson added. "Making Australians proud of Qantas is what we are really purposeful about."
