Qantas Introduces Direct Seasonal Flights from Sydney to Sapporo

PUBLICATION

Publish Date:

Modified Date:

Categories

Share

- Advertisement -

Qantas has unveiled a new seasonal route connecting Sydney to Sapporo, significantly enhancing its Japan network. This expansion positions Sapporo as the airline’s 100th destination and offers Australian travellers a seamless gateway to Hokkaido’s famed winter landscapes, including top-tier ski resorts such as Niseko, Furano, Rusutsu, and Kiroro.

A Strategic Expansion for Qantas

The introduction of this route strengthens Qantas’ presence in Japan, tapping into the soaring demand for travel between the two countries. With over 850,000 seats available annually on Qantas’ mainline routes and 1.5 million across the entire Qantas Group—including Jetstar—this expansion highlights the airline’s commitment to meet passenger demand.

Flights will commence on December 15, 2025, and run through March 28, 2026, operating three times per week (Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday). The Airbus A330-200 will serve the route, offering 27 business class suites with direct aisle access and lie-flat beds, alongside 228 economy class seats. The approximate flight time is 10 hours and 50 minutes under flight number QF107.

Direct Access to Hokkaido’s Winter Paradise

Previously, Australian travellers heading to Sapporo often faced long layovers in Tokyo, adding unnecessary hours to their journey. With this direct route, passengers can now reach Hokkaido’s premier ski destinations on the same day, eliminating the need for complex transfers. The return schedule allows for a final morning on the slopes before an evening departure back to Sydney.

Beyond skiing, Hokkaido boasts a range of attractions, from the rejuvenating hot springs of Noboribetsu and Jozankei to the spectacular Sapporo Snow Festival in February, featuring intricate ice sculptures and winter festivities.

Strengthening Qantas’ Japan Network

Qantas already operates double daily flights from Sydney to Tokyo Haneda, alongside daily services from Melbourne and Brisbane to Tokyo Narita. Jetstar further complements these offerings with services from Brisbane, Cairns, and Sydney to Osaka and Tokyo, reinforcing the Qantas Group’s dominant position in the Australia-Japan market.

Industry Impact and Growing Demand

The revival of the Sydney-Sapporo route follows a strong rebound in international travel, particularly among Australian winter sports enthusiasts eager to explore Japan’s powder snow destinations. Qantas last operated this route in early 2020, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, and its return signifies renewed confidence in the market’s growth potential.

Cam Wallace, Qantas International CEO, emphasized the importance of the route:

“We know Sapporo is an extremely popular winter destination for Aussies who love the snow, and we’re excited to make it even easier for them to reach Hokkaido’s world-class ski resorts with a direct flight from Sydney. These new flights will save passengers hours of travel time compared to connecting in Tokyo or other cities and give them more time to enjoy the slopes.”

This move is not only beneficial for travellers but also supports Japan’s tourism industry. An influx of up to 20,000 Australian visitors during peak ski season is expected to boost local businesses, from hotels and ski resorts to restaurants and tour operators.

Flight Details at a Glance

  • Route: Sydney (SYD) – Sapporo (CTS)
  • Frequency: Three times per week (Monday, Wednesday, Saturday)
  • Aircraft: Airbus A330-200
  • Flight Time: Approx. 10 hours 50 minutes
  • Service Period: December 15, 2025 – March 28, 2026
  • Fares: To be announced; all tickets include checked baggage, inflight meals, beverages, and entertainment

Enhanced Travel Convenience for Australians

For Australian travellers, this new direct service is a game-changer, significantly reducing travel time to one of the world’s most celebrated winter destinations. This aligns with the broader aviation trend of airlines expanding connectivity to niche markets, catering to the evolving needs of modern travellers.

Whether travellers seek pristine powder snow, immersive cultural experiences, or Hokkaido’s renowned cuisine, Qantas’ new route makes Sapporo more accessible than ever. With a favourable exchange rate further enhancing the appeal of Japan, this addition underscores Qantas’ dedication to delivering seamless, world-class travel experiences.

- Advertisement -
- Advertisment -

British Airways Reinstates Full Meal Service in Premium Cabins Following Passenger Backlash

British Airways has officially reversed its unpopular catering cuts in premium cabins on long-haul flights, reinstating full meal service after significant backlash from passengers...
Dan
Dan
Travelling on Points is the brainchild of a person who loves to travel and reap the benefits of doing so. Dan enjoys sharing the knowledge of travel as he believes that the more people travel the less narrow-minded, and more tolerant, people will be of each other.

Article Comments

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Related Articles

Popular Catagories