Major milestone for South Australia as Qantas launches new international route and business lounge

Andrea Thompson

ByAndrea Thompson

May 15, 2025
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Qantas has today announced new flights between Adelaide and Auckland set to take off in October 2025, marking the airline’s return of non-stop international flying from South Australia. 

The new route unlocks greater choice for South Australians across the airline’s expanding international network, including seamless connections to North America via New Zealand on the airline’s popular QF3 service from Auckland to New York.

Available to book now, the new seasonal route will add more than 30,000 seats between the two capital cities, boosting inbound tourism to the state.

Marking a significant day for South Australians, the airline is also opening the doors to its first Domestic Business Lounge in Adelaide. The new lounge celebrates the best of South Australia featuring a market kitchen, inspired by the Adelaide Central Market, serving up dishes created by Qantas Creative Director of Food, Beverage and Service, Neil Perry and lighter snack options by Maggie Beer.

Qantas Group CEO International Cam Wallace said it was an exciting and significant day both for Qantas and South Australians.

“Today we’re celebrating two huge milestones in Adelaide – launching a new direct international flight and our first Qantas Business Lounge at Adelaide Airport. This is fantastic news for our South Australian customers who will have access to a direct international flight to Auckland as well as opening up connections to New York via Auckland.

Comments to be attributed to Adelaide Airport Managing Director, Brenton Cox:

“We’re excited to welcome Qantas international services back to Adelaide, offering both a direct service to Auckland and opening up an excellent one-stop connection with New York. We also welcome the wonderful new Business Lounge featuring great local produce in keeping with Adelaide Airport’s overall retail philosophy to showcase the best of South Australia.”

The opening of the Domestic Business Lounge marks the final stage in construction of the new Adelaide Lounge precinct and a significant milestone in the national carrier’s investment in upgrading its global lounge network and ongoing commitment to enhancing customer experience.

Designed in collaboration with Architectus, the new Domestic Business Lounge aims to capture the essence of South Australia, taking inspiration from three iconic locations; the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, Adelaide Central Markets and Kangaroo Island’s Flinders Chase National Park.