Qatar Airways vs Qantas

Updated: 10 Oct 2026
Qatar AirwaysVS Qantas

Quick verdict

Which is better: Qatar Airways or Qantas?

Qatar Airways and Qantas offer competitive full-service experiences, but they differ in several key areas. Qatar Airways provides a slightly higher price range and a larger fleet size (240 vs. 120), which may indicate greater route options especially in long-haul markets. In terms of comfort, both airlines offer similar cabin classes and seat pitches, though Qantas’s premium classes offer more spacious baggage allowances. Both airlines maintain excellent safety records and punctuality, with Qantas recognized globally as the world's safest airline. Travelers seeking luxurious Middle Eastern service with state-of-the-art amenities may prefer Qatar Airways, whereas those looking for a reliable carrier with extensive domestic and global reach might find Qantas more suitable.

At a glance

Qatar Airways Qantas
General
Headquarter Doha, Qatar Mascot, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Airline type – Full-service flag carrier
Alliance oneworld oneworld
Fleet & Destination
Fleet size 244 (Mar 2026) 132
Long-Haul flights – Yes
Service & Comfort
Cabin classes – International: First (A380), Business, Premium Economy, Economy
Seat pitch – International Economy: usually 79 cm (31 in); A380 First: about 83.5 in pitch (Wikipedia)
In-flight entertainment – Seat-back audio-video on demand (Panasonic "Q" system) on A330, 787 and selected A380 aircraft
Punctuality & Safety
Safety record – No jet fatalities; last fatal accidents were in 1951. Named world's safest airline for seven years from 2012 to 2019 and again in 2021 (Wikipedia).
Extras & loyalty
Airport Lounges – First Lounges in Auckland, Melbourne, Singapore, Sydney and Los Angeles; Business Lounges in Auckland, Brisbane, Hong Kong, Honolulu, London and others
Upgrades – Upgrades are available through the Qantas Frequent Flyer programme; check qantas.com for current terms

Search your flight

Qatar Airways and Qantas are two prominent international carriers, each representing its region with strong global connectivity and a focus on premium service. This comparison highlights their key strengths to help travelers make informed decisions.

About Qatar Airways Read more

Overview

Qatar Airways (IATA QR, ICAO QTR) is the flag carrier of Qatar, headquartered in Doha. It is still operating: the group's FY2026 fleet, network and operational highlights were reported by CAPA. Its Wikipedia article covers the company history and ownership.

Network and hubs

The airline's operations are based in Doha. A full list of destinations is on Wikipedia. This profile does not yet state route or region figures because they could not be verified.

Fleet

A current fleet size could not be confirmed in time for this profile. Fleet details are on the Qatar Airways fleet page, and Aviation Business Middle East has reported a plan for 138 new aircraft. The group's private jet arm, Qatar Executive, is listed there with 27 aircraft.

On board

Cabin, seat, meal, entertainment and Wi-Fi details have not been verified for this profile. Please check the airline's official website.

Good to know

  • Baggage allowances vary by fare and route. See the Qatar Airways baggage information page.
  • Lounge, change-fee and loyalty programme details should be checked with the airline before booking.
Qatar Airways's full profile
About Qantas Read more

Overview

Qantas Airways Limited is the flag carrier of Australia. According to Wikipedia, it was founded in Winton, Queensland, in November 1920 and began operations in 1922. It is one of the world's oldest airlines still operating. It is listed on the ASX, majority Australian-owned under Australian legislation, and headquartered in Mascot, Sydney. It is a founding member of the oneworld alliance. Vanessa Hudson is chief executive.

Network and hubs

Qantas has hubs in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, with focus cities including Adelaide, Cairns, Canberra, Darwin and Hobart. It serves more than 60 domestic destinations and flies to Asia, Europe, North America, Africa and South America. It describes itself as the only airline to fly to all seven continents. Subsidiaries include Jetstar (low-cost) and QantasLink (regional).

Fleet

Wikipedia lists a mainline fleet of 132 aircraft (retrieved September 2026). In November 2024 the wider Qantas Group, including Jetstar, QantasLink and freight operations, operated 308 aircraft. The group has large orders for A220, A320neo family, A350 and Boeing 787 aircraft to replace older types. Seat maps for each type are on the Qantas fleet page.

On board

  • First: A380 only, with 14 suites in a 1-1-1 layout.
  • Business, Premium Economy and Economy: offered internationally. Economy seat pitch is usually 79 cm (31 in).
  • Entertainment: seat-back audio-video on demand on A330, 787 and selected A380 aircraft.

Meal and Wi-Fi details vary by route and aircraft; check the airline's website for your flight.

Good to know

  • Lounges: international First Lounges operate in Auckland, Melbourne, Singapore, Sydney and Los Angeles, with Business Lounges in several other cities.
  • Loyalty: Qantas Frequent Flyer. Its higher tiers and oneworld status give lounge access.
  • Baggage and change fees: these depend on fare type and route. Check the airline's baggage and fees pages when booking.
  • Safety: Qantas has had no jet fatalities. Its last fatal accidents were in 1951.

Sources: Wikipedia, Qantas; Qantas fleet and seat maps.

Qantas's full profile

Ranking

Related airline comparisons

Compare the airlines

Compare two airlines side-by-side to see the real difference

We use cookies to keep the site working, understand how it is used, and show relevant content and ads. Choose Accept all to allow them, or Reject all to keep only the cookies the site needs. Read more in our Privacy Policy.