There’s a quiet revolution unfolding in the red-tail skies. Qantas, Australia’s flag carrier and perennial overachiever of the airways, is set to redefine economy travel with the launch of Economy Plus. This mid-cabin upgrade promises more comfort, more choice, and, crucially, more legroom.
From February 2026, passengers boarding the airline’s Airbus A321XLR, A220, and Boeing 737 aircraft will find an enhanced economy zone designed for travellers who want a little extra without the price tag or guilt of business class.
Stretching Out at 35,000 Feet
The Qantas Economy Plus seats offer up to 40 per cent more legroom, meaning weary business travellers and restless leisure flyers alike can finally stretch out without committing unholy yoga poses at altitude.
Each Economy Plus seat comes with priority boarding and dedicated overhead luggage space—a simple but satisfying touch for anyone who’s ever watched their carry-on disappear into row 24 while seated in row 8.
Qantas says the upgrade is not merely cosmetic. “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,” explained Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson.
A Thank-You to Frequent Flyers
Loyalty has long been Qantas’ secret weapon, and Economy Plus takes that devotion to cruising altitude.
Under the new program, Platinum and above members of the Qantas Frequent Flyer club will enjoy complimentary access to Economy Plus when booking. Gold members will receive access at check-in, subject to availability, of course, which adds just enough thrill to keep things interesting.
Currently, Qantas says 21,000 seats each week are chosen by Frequent Flyers seeking front-row economy spots. With the new cabin, these passengers will find even more reasons to select red over rivals.
A Modern Fleet for a Modern Traveller
The introduction of Economy Plus coincides with one of Qantas’ most ambitious fleet renewal programs. The airline has 48 next-generation A321XLR aircraft on order, two of which are already soaring through domestic skies, with a third expected before year’s end.
New A321XLR and A220 aircraft are being delivered with Economy Plus seating installed from the outset. The older Boeing 737 fleet will undergo reconfiguration starting in December 2025, ensuring the experience remains consistent whether you’re flying from Sydney to Melbourne, to Auckland, or to the Pacific Islands.
It’s a subtle nod to Qantas’ broader transformation strategy, modern aircraft, lower emissions, and now, a cabin offering that bridges the gap between standard economy and premium economy.
Comfort as a Competitive Edge
In an era when low-cost carriers chase price and full-service airlines chase prestige, Qantas is carving out something refreshingly in-between. It’s a recognition that comfort, not just cost, drives loyalty.
Ms Hudson added, “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.”
Indeed, for the frequent business commuter making the weekly trek from Sydney to Brisbane, or the holiday-maker bound for Queenstown, those few extra inches might spell the difference between fatigue and rejuvenation.
Pricing and Availability
Economy Plus will be available for purchase on Qantas’ Boeing 737, A321XLR, and A220 aircraft across domestic and short-haul international routes from February 2026. Pricing is yet to be announced, though the airline assures customers it will be “competitive”.
In plain English, expect it to cost less than an upgrade but more than your average exit-row selection—and worth every dollar if legroom means sanity.
A Fresh Era for Australian Aviation
For Qantas, this move isn’t just about creature comforts. It’s a strategic step in positioning the national carrier as the airline that listens—an evolution grounded in both innovation and old-fashioned hospitality.
In a marketplace where travellers crave value, reliability, and a touch of dignity, Economy Plus may prove to be a masterstroke. As one long-time Platinum member put it, “It’s about time Qantas gave us a bit more elbow room for our loyalty.”
And perhaps that sums it up best. Qantas Economy Plus is not merely about more space—it’s about reclaiming the art of flying well.
For more information, visit Qantas.com.
By Stephen Morton – (c) 2025
Read Time: 4 minutes
About the Writer
Stephen Morton has spent nearly five decades shaping how the travel industry works, talks, and sells itself. From the family-run agency of 1976 to today’s digital frontier, Morton has been at the front of the queue, often long before anyone else knew there was a queue.
By the mid-nineties, he was dragging Agents Support Systems online while the industry still worshipped the fax machine. In 2001, he launched e-Travel Blackboard (eTB), a daily newsletter that became Australia’s most read industry bulletin and expanded across New Zealand, Asia, the Americas, and into MICE.
In 2009, Global Travel Media came, going on to scoop multiple international awards, including Best Travel Industry Website and Outstanding Digital Media Service. Later came Destination Thailand News, Global Cruise News, and now, in 2025, GTM Holidays and the forthcoming GTM Mall.
Whether lecturing students or launching titles, Morton has always been ahead of the curve, a travel industry stalwart who has turned instinct into impact.
