Qantas has launched its first international service from Adelaide in more than a decade, with direct flights to Auckland taking off this morning.
The route unlocks greater choice and more seamless connections for South Australians across the airline's growing international network, adding more than 30,000 seats between the two capital cities and boosting tourism in both directions.
The seasonal route will operate until early May four times per week on a Boeing 737-800 aircraft, featuring Qantas' complimentary fast and free Wi-Fi.
It comes as the national carrier announced a major sale across its international network yesterday, including one way Economy fares from Adelaide to Auckland from $359 for travel between February and May 2026.
Qantas CEO International Cam Wallace said it was a significant day for the airline and South Australians.
"Today we're celebrating a major milestone for Qantas and South Australians with the return of international flying from Adelaide.
"South Australians can now reach New York in around 21 hours and with just one stop via Auckland on our QF3 service, while the new route also opens up greater opportunities for inbound connections throughout South Australia and beyond through our domestic network.
"We've seen significant growth across our international network over the past 18 months and we're pleased to bring more of that choice and connectivity to South Australia."
Comments to be attributed to South Australia Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison MP:
"It is an important milestone for South Australia today to welcome Qantas international services back to Adelaide after more than a decade.
"This new service direct to Auckland will further strengthen our State's access to New Zealand, our fourth largest tourism market which has seen huge growth, up 42 per cent on the last year to contribute $93 million to South Australia's economy. This service also provides greater access to another key global market in North America - worth $118 million to our State - as it connects through to New York City with a single stop. "
Comments to be attributed to Adelaide Airport Managing Director, Brenton Cox:
"We're excited to welcome Qantas' international return to Adelaide. This is a much-anticipated milestone, which helps meet the growing customer demand for travel between Adelaide and New Zealand. Along with a direct service to Auckland, the service opens up a one-stop connection with New York."
Comments to be attributed to Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive René de Monchy:
"It's fantastic to welcome back Qantas' direct flights from Adelaide to Aotearoa New Zealand. With 1.47 million Australians visiting New Zealand over the past year, these direct services play a vital role in strengthening connectivity and making trans-Tasman travel even more seamless.
"We're excited to continue welcoming South Australians to New Zealand, now with even more travel options that make it easier than ever to experience the unique magic of a 100% Pure New Zealand holiday."
Adelaide to Auckland route fast facts:
- The new route will operate seasonally from 31 October 2025 to 3 May 2026 four times per week on a Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
- Adelaide to Auckland will operate as QF175 on Monday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday with approximate flight time 4 hours and 15 minutes.
- Qantas currently operates nearly 280 services per week from Adelaide to more than 14 destinations around Australia.
