With the capability to carry just under 500 passengers and spanning across two decks, the Airbus A380 is a marvel of modern aviation engineering. Qantas, the flag carrier of Australia, boasts a fleet of these iconic superjumbos, offering passengers an unparalleled travel experience.
How many A380’s does Qantas have?
Qantas has 12 A380’s as part of its fleet.
It currently has seven A380s in operation and aims to bring an eighth aircraft back into service by the conclusion of 2023. Furthermore, the airline intends to reactivate two additional A380s in 2024.
A common route is QF2 which flies to Heathrow, London. If you are on this route and flying in one of the premium cabins dont forget to visit the Qantas Lounge at T3 in Heathrow.
Initially, Qantas operated a fleet of 12 A380s in 2019. However, due to strategic decisions made during the pandemic, the airline opted not to return two of these aircraft to active service.
According to the seat maps provided on the official Qantas website, seven tail numbers feature one configuration, while three tail numbers exhibit a different layout, particularly on the upper deck. Among these three, only one aircraft is presently operational.
If I run a quick search on the Qantas site, it looks like it is serving the Sydney to Hong Kong route every Saturday. The upper deck of this aircraft accommodates a select number of economy seats positioned behind business class, offering passengers a unique boarding experience through the same gate and bridge entrance used by business class travellers. This exclusive cabin, comprising a few seats, stands apart from the main cluster of 371 economy seats and is highly coveted for its intimate and secluded ambiance. (see image below – upper deck)
Conversely, the remaining two A380s are showing as “landed” a couple years ago in Abu Dhabi. They are reportedly undergoing refurbishment.
For the other seven A380 aircraft currently in operation, the seat map appears to follow a more conventional layout.
Why you should know a seat layout on an aircraft
Understanding the seat layout of an aircraft is crucial for passengers as it directly impacts their overall travel experience. Furthermore, knowing the seat layout enables passengers to make informed decisions when selecting their seats. They are able to consider factors such as comfort and proximity to amenities like restrooms or exits. Not all cabins are the same and they may vary from aircraft to aircraft and also amongst airlines. It’s important to get value for money.
For instance if we look at the Emirates Airbus A380-800 Seat Plane (which is one of my best airlines to fly business and first class), it has a number of aircrafts flying around including 8 different configurations across 4 types of aircrafts. Furthermore their 777 ‘game changer’ is floor to ceiling First Class Suites. But you have to know the routes they fly the game changer on. That way you get value for money and an incredible on board experience.
Moreover, familiarity with the seat layout allows passengers to navigate the aircraft more efficiently. This minimizes confusion and streamlines the boarding and disembarkation processes. For travelers with specific preferences or requirements, such as those needing extra legroom or traveling with companions, knowledge of the seat layout enables them to make suitable arrangements in advance. This ensures a more pleasant and stress-free journey.
Understanding your aircraft and selecting the best business class hard and soft products, you ensure value for your money. If you are travelling on points, utilizing a points redemption value calculator can help you maximize your rewards when booking flights, allowing you to get the most out of your travel investments.
How many classes does the Qantas A380 have?
Qantas A380-800 has four classes. First Class and Economy are located on the Main Deck, whilst Business Class and Premium Economy occupy the upper deck.
14 First Class at the front of the Main Deck
70 Business Class on the Upper Deck
60 Premium Economy on the Upper Deck
341 Economy on the main deck
Here’s what that looks like.
Qantas A380 Seat Layout / Map
Which is better upper deck or lower deck on A380?
When considering the comparison between the upper and lower decks on the Qantas A380, the upper deck typically offers a more desirable experience. However, it’s important to note that your seating location depends on your class of travel and availability. The upper deck accommodates 130 passengers, while the main deck seats 355 passengers.
What is the best place to sit on the Qantas A380?
Qantas A380 Best Economy Seats:
1. Row 71 Seat D
2. Row 51 Seats K,J,H
3. Row 80 Seats A & K
These are not exit row seats yet they are positioned in parts of the cabin that have super extra legroom.
Economy class occupies three quarters of the main deck, just behind first class. Economy offers passengers a comfortable and affordable travel option without compromising on quality. The cabin features a total of 341 seats, each designed to provide comfort and convenience during the journey. You can select a preferred seat at time of booking to ensure you get the seat you hoped for.
Alternatively if you are not stressed about where you are seating you can also opt for the T80 Qantas hack that could see you seat right up the front of the cabin.
Qantas’ A380 Economy Class seats are arranged in a 3-4-3 configuration on the main deck. This offers passengers a choice of seating options to suit their preferences. Despite being the most economical class of travel, Qantas’ A380 Economy Class seats are ergonomically designed with adjustable headrests. There are personal entertainment screens to keep passengers entertained throughout the flight.
Passengers traveling in Qantas’ A380 Economy Class enjoy a selection of complimentary meals and beverages. There is access to a range of inflight entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, music, and games.
Best Seats Qantas A380 Premium Economy
Look out for Row 31 A,B and K,J are bassinet seats and the middle F,E,D are the ones that offer the leg room.
Beware of Rows 38 and 39 don’t have storage bins like the rest of the seats.
Situated behind the Business Class cabin on the main deck, Qantas’ Premium Economy offers passengers an elevated travel experience at an affordable price point. The cabin features a total of 60 spacious seats. Each of them designed to provide enhanced comfort and amenities compared to Economy Class.
Qantas’ Premium Economy seats are arranged in a 2-3-2 configuration. The seats are wider and offer increased legroom compared to Economy Class, with additional recline and adjustable footrests for added comfort during the flight.
Passengers traveling in Qantas’ Premium Economy enjoy a range of enhanced amenities, including priority check-in and boarding, premium dining options, and an amenity kit filled with travel essentials. Additionally, passengers have access to a dedicated cabin crew, ensuring a high level of personalized service throughout the flight.
Best Seats Qantas A380 Business Class
Located on the upper deck, Qantas’ Business Class offers a perfect blend of comfort, style, and functionality. The cabin features a total of 70 spacious seats, each meticulously designed to cater to the needs of modern business travellers.
Qantas’ A380 Business Class seats are arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, providing direct aisle access for every passenger.
If you are travelling with a partner and would like to share your journey then take the middle seats. These are E and F. There is a divider which can be pushed down. Both seats have aisle access.
Depending on where you want to be located in the cabin (close to the toilets or close to the business class lounge on board) select your seats. I generally opt for the middle part so I can enjoy a quieter and more private flight.
The A & K window seats are in alternates. Only half of them are really located directly next to a window.
So if you are a window person try and opt for the row that is directly next to it. They are rows (11, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26 and 28)
Best seats for Qantas A380 First Class
At the forefront of Qantas’ A380 is its First Class cabin, epitomizing luxury in the skies. Occupying the forward section of the main deck, this exclusive enclave offers discerning travellers an unmatched level of comfort and personalized service. The cabin features a total of 14 spacious suites, each designed to provide maximum privacy and comfort. The suite space is not as big as the incoming project sunrise, but I wouldnt be complaining if i landed in one of these.
The layout is 1-1-1. I don’t think you can go wrong in selecting seats here. But here are some tips.
2F is tucked underneath the stairs so it appears to be the most private of all suites.
If you are travelling with a partner and wish to enjoy the journey together then opt for the F and K seats as you are directly across each other.
Summing Up
The seat layout of Qantas’ A380 is designed to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of travellers across different classes. From the luxury of First Class to the enhanced comfort of Premium Economy and the value-packed Economy Class, Qantas’ A380 offers passengers a range of options to suit their travel requirements.
Whether flying for business or leisure, passengers can expect a world-class travel experience onboard Qantas’ A380. This experience is characterized by comfort, convenience, and exceptional cabin crew service. Before you embark, make sure you’re well-prepared by checking out my ultimate travel packing list to ensure you’ve got everything you need for a smooth journey.
