Qantas has announced huge enhancements to its onboard experience across both its domestic and short-haul international fleets. Introducing, Qantas Economy Plus. This new product will be available to travellers from February 2026 on its Airbus A321XLR, A220, and Boeing 737 aircrafts - all of which serve the airline’s expansive domestic network, as well as New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.

Platinum Qantas Frequent Flyers members will receive complimentary access to Qantas Economy Plus when booking flights. Meanwhile, Gold members will receive complimentary access at check-in. This development is a huge win for Platinum members and above, and adds further value to the benefits available to them.

The Qantas Economy Plus Experience

This offers further incentive for travellers to strive for higher status tiers and even maintain their current Platinum status. This move from Qantas is likely a response to Virgin’s Economy X, in an attempt to enhance membership benefits and maintain their corporate frequent flyers.

Vanessa Hudson, Qantas Group CEO, has stated that Qantas Economy Plus will provide travellers with greater flexibility in how they travel and provide more value to Qantas Frequent Flyers.

"This is an evolution of our Economy offering and delivers more choice for our customers while recognising our most loyal frequent flyers with expanded benefits, in the areas we know they value the most…” said Hudson.

This all-new cabin product has been designed to offer travellers even more options. Travellers in Qantas Economy Plus will enjoy up to 40 per cent extra legroom, granting them further comfort and allowing them to take full advantage of the space. They’ll also benefit from priority boarding, as well as priority access to overhead baggage space.

“We're always looking for ways to enhance the onboard experience and maximise comfort for our customers. We believe this new seating product will be popular with our corporate and leisure travellers when it launches next year,” added Hudson.

What Comes Next?

This new product launch comes as Qantas progresses with its historic fleet renewal program, which includes 48 next-generation A321XLR aircrafts on order. The first two started flying the domestic network in September, and a third will join them before the end of 2025. Those interested in flying the Economy Plus product on these aircrafts can look forward to booking when it becomes available in February 2026 - pricing for Qantas Economy Plus will be announced closer to the launch.

Looking to maximise status credits and climb membership tiers with Qantas Frequent Flyer? Our expert Airfare Specialists can help you unlock the best value long haul business class fares with Qantas and oneworld partners. Contact our team here to learn more.