New route to Western Sydney

Qatar Airways will launch a new route between Doha and Western Sydney on December 15, 2027, with three weekly flights using Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. The airline plans to increase the frequency to daily flights by the end of 2028.

Flight schedule details

Flights will depart Doha at 1:40 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, arriving in Western Sydney at 11:45 p.m. Return flights will leave Western Sydney at 4:10 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, arriving in Doha at 11:00 p.m.

Aircraft and amenities

The Boeing 777-300ER aircraft will have 354 seats, including 42 in the Qsuite business class and 312 in economy. The airline will offer free Starlink Wi-Fi on board, enhancing the travel experience for passengers.

Operational advantages

Western Sydney Airport offers a 24/7 operation, unlike Sydney-Kingsford Smith, which has a curfew. This allows for more flexible flight times, such as the 11:45 p.m. arrival. The route is expected to boost tourism and cargo opportunities in New South Wales.

Government support

The service was enabled by an updated bilateral air services agreement between Australia and Qatar. The Western Sydney International Take-Off Fund, supported by the airport and the New South Wales government, also contributed to the initiative.

Expanded network plans

Qatar Airways plans nearly 1,800 weekly flights across more than 170 destinations by December 2026. In Australia, it will restore daily service to Canberra via Melbourne and increase frequencies in Melbourne.

Partnership with Virgin Australia

Virgin Australia will also enhance its connections to Doha. Together, the two carriers will offer 21 weekly flights from Sydney-Kingsford Smith, along with services from Brisbane and Perth, starting in December 2026.

Enhanced European connections

European travelers connecting through Doha will see increased frequencies to destinations such as Phuket, Malé, and Hô Chi Minh-Ville starting in late 2026. London-Heathrow will have eight daily flights, and Frankfurt will see an increase to three flights per day by December 2026.