Thursday April 4, 2024
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Qantas has announced minor increases to the seat selection fee for extra legroom on domestic and international flights. One important update is for strategic travellers familiar with the “T-80 rule”, which involves selecting a seat in row 4 of the Boeing 737 economy cabin. Traditionally, this row has been reserved exclusively for premium travellers such as Qantas Platinum One and Chairman’s Lounge members, at no charge. However, 80 hours before departure, these seats, which are reserved for Platinum and Gold frequent flyers, become available to all passengers, regardless of their frequent flyer status.
Starting April 18, the coveted Row 4 seats on the Boeing 737 will be classified as extra legroom seats, carrying an additional fee ranging from $35 to $70 depending on the length of the flight. It is important to note that Platinum One and Chairman's Lounge members will not be subject to these new fees for row 4 seats and will not lose early access to these seats. This change is intended to benefit these elite members by reducing competition for premium seats during the T-80 period.
New fees for extra legroom at Qantas:
- Short-haul domestic flights on Boeing 737 and Airbus A330 aircraft, covering distances of up to 750 miles, will see their extra legroom seat fees increase by $30 to $35.
- For mid-distance domestic flights, between 751 and 1,500 miles, the fee will increase from $40 to $45.
- The cost for extra legroom on longer domestic flights will range from $70 to $75.
- Regional flights on Boeing 717 and Embraer E190 jets will see a $15 to $20 increase for seats with more legroom.
- Fees for additional legroom on the Airbus A220 are still under review.
- Short-haul international flights to New Zealand and Fiji will see their extra leg seat fees increased from $30 to $35, while medium-haul flights to Asia and Honolulu will increase from $80 to $85 $.
- For Qantas' longest international flights to destinations including the UK, Europe, the Americas and South Africa, the cost of selecting an economy seat with more legroom will drop from $180 to $195.
Qantas’ adjustment of extra legroom fares reflects changing air travel and tourism dynamics, indicating a shift towards optimising comfort and enhancing the passenger travel experience, while preserving the privileges of its most loyal customers. This strategy could impact global travel trends by influencing passenger choices and preferences for seating and airline selection.
