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Thinking of flying to a land Down Under? It’s a hell of a trip, so you’ll want to make sure you pick the right airline to get you there. Who you go with depends on a whole bunch of factors from flight times to layover cities, so we had a chat with our aviation nerds here at Netflights, as well as comparing Skytrax awards (think of it as like the Oscars of the aviation industry), to find you what we reckon are the best airlines for flying to Australia.

Qantas

Skytrax Rank (2024): #24 globally

If it’s convenience you’re after, Qantas is your gal. They’re the only airline to offer a direct, non-stop route from the UK to Australia – their famous London to Perth route. But you don’t have to do the 17-hour ultramarathon flight that eliminates layovers – you can also do a more a traditional route with stopovers in cities like Singapore or Dubai.

In Economy, the seats are ergonomically designed with adjustable headrests and footrests. While legroom is average (around 31-32 inches), the seats are relatively comfortable for long-haul travel. Plus you’ll have access to a self-service snack bar on long-haul flights, and you’ll also be given a kit with all the basics on long-haul flights too. In Premium Economy, you’ll get wider seats with extra legroom and a generous recline. Meals are served on proper crockery too (nice), and you’ll enjoy an upgraded menu compared to Economy.

Qantas is known for a pretty good Business Class. You’ll get a fully lie-flat bed with direct aisle access for all passengers. The seats also have an in-built massage function – snazzy. Seats have those sliding panels too, so you don’t have to avoid your neighbour’s gaze the whole flight (yikes.) Plus, on A380 aircraft, you can enjoy the onboard lounge, a social space with comfortable seating and a bar stocked with premium bevs. Yes, please.

First comes with those fully-flat beds, but this time you’ll also get a plush mattress topper, large pillows, and a lovely  duvet. You also get a personal ottoman, which doubles as a companion seat for in-flight dining. In Business and First, the menu is curated by celebrity chef Neil Perry and offers a fusion of Australian and international cuisine. Oh, and you can pre-order meals via the “Select on Q-Eat” service too. The amenity kits for Business and First are both by Australian brand ASPAR.

The in-flight entertainment experience across all classes includes over 1,000 movies, TV shows, music albums, and games. There’s something for everyone, from the latest blockbusters to classics. Wi-Fi is also gradually being rolled out across Qantas international flights, but it’s not available fleet-wide just yet.

Network

Other than that non-stop London to Perth route, Qantas also offers one-stop routes with short layovers in Singapore. 

Once you land in Australia, Qantas is fantastic for reaching other parts of the country. Their domestic network is massive, with just some of their destinations including Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Brisbane

Which UK airports does Qantas fly from?

As of now, Qantas operates exclusively out of London Heathrow.

Wanna know something else?

Their mega ambitious Project Sunrise aims to introduce direct flights from London to Sydney and London to Melbourne by 2025. The Airbus A350-1000s will operate these ultra-long-haul routes, promising enhanced comfort for the 20+ hour journey. Strap in!

This way for cheap flights with Qantas

If it’s convenience you’re after, Qantas is your gal. They’re the only airline to offer a direct, non-stop route from the UK to Australia – their famous London to Perth route. But you don’t have to do the 17-hour ultramarathon flight that eliminates layovers – you can also do a more a traditional route with stopovers in cities like Singapore or Dubai.

In Economy, the seats are ergonomically designed with adjustable headrests and footrests. While legroom is average (around 31-32 inches), the seats are relatively comfortable for long-haul travel. Plus you’ll have access to a self-service snack bar on long-haul flights, and you’ll also be given a kit with all the basics on long-haul flights too. In Premium Economy, you’ll get wider seats with extra legroom and a generous recline. Meals are served on proper crockery too (nice), and you’ll enjoy an upgraded menu compared to Economy.

Qantas is known for a pretty good Business Class. You’ll get a fully lie-flat bed with direct aisle access for all passengers. The seats also have an in-built massage function – snazzy. Seats have those sliding panels too, so you don’t have to avoid your neighbour’s gaze the whole flight (yikes.) Plus, on A380 aircraft, you can enjoy the onboard lounge, a social space with comfortable seating and a bar stocked with premium bevs. Yes, please.

First comes with those fully-flat beds, but this time you’ll also get a plush mattress topper, large pillows, and a lovely  duvet. You also get a personal ottoman, which doubles as a companion seat for in-flight dining. In Business and First, the menu is curated by celebrity chef Neil Perry and offers a fusion of Australian and international cuisine. Oh, and you can pre-order meals via the “Select on Q-Eat” service too. The amenity kits for Business and First are both by Australian brand ASPAR.

The in-flight entertainment experience across all classes includes over 1,000 movies, TV shows, music albums, and games. There’s something for everyone, from the latest blockbusters to classics. Wi-Fi is also gradually being rolled out across Qantas international flights, but it’s not available fleet-wide just yet.

Network

Other than that non-stop London to Perth route, Qantas also offers one-stop routes with short layovers in Singapore. 

Once you land in Australia, Qantas is fantastic for reaching other parts of the country. Their domestic network is massive, with just some of their destinations including Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Brisbane

Which UK airports does Qantas fly from?

As of now, Qantas operates exclusively out of London Heathrow.

Wanna know something else?

Their mega ambitious Project Sunrise aims to introduce direct flights from London to Sydney and London to Melbourne by 2025. The Airbus A350-1000s will operate these ultra-long-haul routes, promising enhanced comfort for the 20+ hour journey. Strap in!

This way for cheap flights with Qantas

Singapore Airlines

Skytrax Rank (2024): #2 globally

Singapore Airlines is mega popular and one of the best airlines for flying to Australia. They currently fly from three UK airports, with stopovers in Singapore before carrying on to Aus. If you like a long stretch followed by a shorter stretch, then a stopover in Singapore is handy for this. They also have the most frequent flights to Aus, and their partnership with Virgin Australia means it’s pretty seamless to travel within the country once you reach Down Under.

Their Premium Economy could easily rival Business Class on some other airlines, while their Business and First Class offerings are ridiculously luxurious. And that Suite Class they’re so famous for? It’s less of an airplane seat and more of a private five-star hotel room in the sky – but note, this is exclusively available on their A380 fleet.

Opt for Business or First Class, and you’ll be treated to top-notch amenities kits. Business Class passengers will enjoy kits created in partnership with boutique fragrance brand Le Labo, presented in sleek waxed cotton canvas pouches inspired by the brand’s signature lab aprons – perfect for repurposing as a travel organizer. First Class passengers, on the other hand, receive indulgent kits from luxury French brand Lalique, featuring exclusive fragrances, skincare products, and other fancy bits. Even in Premium Economy, you’ll find thoughtful touches with an eco-friendly amenities kit by Out of the Woods, covering all the essentials.

When it comes to dining, think gourmet. Lobster thermidor, beef rendang, or an exquisitely prepared vegetarian curry are just a few options to expect. Plus, with their “Book the Cook” service, you can pre-select your meal to suit your cravings. Entertainment on board is equally impressive, thanks to the KrisWorld system. With a vast selection of movies, TV shows, games, and music at your fingertips, you may actually wish your flight lasted longer to enjoy it all. Well, almost.

Network

Singapore Airlines has four daily flights to Aus from Heathrow, 5 weekly flights from Heathrow, as well as 5 weekly flights from Manchester – all with stopovers at Singapore’s Changi Airport – often rated the best in the world.

From Singapore you can fly into loads of cities across Aus, including Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.

Which UK airports does Singapore Airlines fly from?

You’ve got a few options – London Heathrow, London Gatwick, and Manchester Airport.

Wanna know something else?

The cabin crew undergo a four-month training programme, one of the longest and most comprehensive in the industry.

This way for cheap flights with Singapore Airlines

Cathay Pacific

Skytrax Rank (2024): #5 globally

Another option if you like a longer stretch followed by a shorter stretch when it comes to non-direct flights is Cathay Pacific. They’re based in Hong Kong, so all of their flights to Australia come through here. Whilst it’s a slightly longer hop to Aus from Hong Kong (about 10 hours) than it is from Singapore, it gives you a great excuse to experience this fab city (we wrote about how to spend 72 hours in Hong Kong here).

Cathay Pacific is synonymous with premium service, placing a strong emphasis on comfort and cleanliness. Their cabins are sleek, modern, and remarkably spotless – even after long-haul flights, which is a testament to their reputation for hygiene. Economy Class offers spacious seating with a pitch of around 32 inches, good recline, adjustable headrests, ergonomic cushioning, USB charging ports, and an 11.6-inch HD entertainment screen to keep you entertained.

Premium Economy takes it up a notch with wider seats boasting 38 inches of pitch, extra recline, and added comfort features like leg and footrests. In Business Class, you can stretch out in lie-flat seats that ensure a truly restful journey. First Class takes luxury to another level, with suite-style seating that converts into an ultra-comfortable 81-inch-long fully flat bed, complete with a personal closet for your belongings. Add to that a stunning 18.5-inch 4K entertainment screen, premium noise-canceling headphones, plush bedding, and yes, even pajamas for maximum coziness.

In terms of amenities, Premium Economy passengers are treated to kits stocked with Aesop products – very fancy indeed. Economy passengers might miss out on a kit but are still provided with thoughtful extras like soft blankets and slippers. Business Class passengers receive sleek amenity kits featuring British skincare brand Bamford, while First Class kits from Bamford come with even more indulgent goodies.

Dining on board is equally impressive, with menus that celebrate Asian flavours. Think dim sum or congee for breakfast and a variety of expertly curated dishes throughout the flight. Meanwhile, Cathay Pacific’s StudioCX entertainment system delivers endless hours of enjoyment – like having a Netflix binge session at 35,000 feet.

Network

Cathay Pacific has daily flights to Sydney from Manchester and Heathrow with a stop at Hong Kong International Airport – its central hub.

From Hong Kong you can fly on to Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, Brisbane, and Cairns.

Which UK airports do Cathay Pacific fly from?

Cathay Pacific currently fly from both London Heathrow and Manchester Airport.

Wanna know something else?

It bags awards all the time for having one of the cleanest airline cabins globally!

This way for cheap flights with Cathay Pacific

Thai Airways

Skytrax Rank (2024): #46 globally

With its hub in Bangkok, Thai Airways is another mega option for flying to Australia, offering a well-balanced flight experience with a mid-length first leg from the UK to Thailand and a shorter hop onward to cities Down Under. The layover at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport is a treat in itself, as the spacious, modern building boasts a great selection of lounges, shops, and dining options to keep you occupied.

Economy Class on Thai Airways comes with spacious seating and a generous seat pitch. Adjustable headrests and ample legroom add to the comfort, while the in-flight entertainment system provides an extensive selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games on personal touchscreens. For those seeking a bit more pizzazz, Royal Silk Class (their version of a Business Class cabin) offers an exceptional upgrade. Seats recline fully into lie-flat beds, and the cabin features a lovely serene design that reflects the airline’s Thai heritage. Plus, some seats come with a massage function. Niiiice.

Indulge in Royal First Class, and the experience will be pretty much pure luxury. Think fully enclosed suites with lie-flat beds, dressed in proper premium bedding. First Class also comes with exclusive perks like private check-in, access to opulent Thai Airways lounges, and even complimentary spa treatments at the airline’s Royal Orchid Spa in Bangkok.

When it comes to amenities, Economy Class comes with well-curated amenity kits with the basics – an eye mask, socks, toothbrush, and the like. If you’re in Business, you’ll be treated to chic kits featuring luxury skincare products from THANN, a popular Thai brand known for its natural ingredients. First Class passengers, on the other hand, enjoy premium amenity kits, often featuring globally renowned brands such as L’Occitane or Bvlgari, complete with deluxe lotions, lip balms, and other lovely bits and bobs.

The onboard menu celebrates the airline’s cultural heritage. Expect delicious Thai dishes like pad thai, green curry, and tom yum soup, served alongside Western options for variety. Economy, Business and First Class gives you the option to pre-select dishes before your flight. In every class, passengers enjoy free drinks, including a selection of wines, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages.

Network

Thai Airways fly twice daily from Heathrow to Bangkok, and from there you can hop on another flight to various destinations in Aus, including Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Brisbane.

Which UK airports does Thai Airways fly from?

Thai Airways currently only fly from London Heathrow, with direct services to Bangkok for onward connections to Australia.

Wanna know something else?

They’re famous for their “Wai” greeting. When you board, the cabin crew will greet you with a traditional Thai wai – hands pressed together in a prayer-like pose with a slight bow. It’s warm, it’s culturally significant, and it describes Thai hospitality to a T.

This way for cheap flights with Thai Airways

Qatar Airways

Skytrax Rank (2024): #1 globally

With its hub in Doha, Qatar Airways is one of the best airlines for flying to Australia if you want a shorter stretch followed by a longer stretch, as it’s a bigger hop from here to Aus than from other hubs like Singapore and Hong Kong. Plus Doha’s Hamad International Airport makes for a pretty cushy layover, as it’s a mega modern airport with all the bells and whistles.

Economy Class on Qatar Airways is impressively spacious, with a generous seat pitch that lets you stretch out – no sardine-can vibes here. Adjustable headrests and built-in footrests add to the comfort, while the touch-screen entertainment system offers a wealth of options, from blockbuster movies to engaging games. It’s no surprise that Qatar Airways doesn’t offer Premium Economy – they’ve made Economy so good, it hardly seems necessary.

Now, let’s talk Business Class: the Qsuite. It’s not just a seat; it’s an experience. These fully lie-flat beds come in private suites with doors you can close for total privacy – ideal for pretending you’re in your own mini hotel room. Traveling with friends or family? The “quad” configuration allows four suites to connect for a communal vibe. Meanwhile, First Class takes luxury to another level, featuring private suites with lie-flat beds that transform into ultra-comfy sleeping pods with lavish bedding. On select aircraft, you can even freshen up with an in-flight shower. And of course, you’ll enjoy a premium entertainment system complete with Bose noise-canceling headphones.

When it comes to amenities, Economy passengers receive thoughtfully curated kits with all the essentials. Business Class travelers are treated to sophisticated leather amenity kits from BRIC’S, featuring Acqua di Parma skincare products like body lotion and lip balm. In First Class, the kits are pure indulgence, courtesy of Bvlgari. Expect luxurious goodies such as Eau Parfumée au Thé Vert body lotion, lip balm, face mist, and – because they don’t skimp on the details – a pen. Bose headphones also make the cut here for the ultimate in-flight comfort.

The dining options are equally impressive. Menus are frequently updated, so you’ll never face the same chicken-and-rice combo twice. Middle Eastern cuisine like hummus and falafel takes center stage, alongside global options like pasta, grilled chicken, and regionally inspired treats. Complimentary beverages are served throughout the flight, and upgrading to Business or First Class unlocks a whole new level of dining. Think caviar, Wagyu beef, and the ability to dine on demand.

Network

Qatar Airways fly direct to Doha from London a whopping 8 times a day (!), as well as daily from multiple UK airports, making them a mega convenient choice for those across the country.

Once in Doha, you can make onwards to connections to cities across Australia – Adelaide, Canberra, Sydney, Perth, Brisbane and Melbourne.

Which UK airports does Qatar Airways fly from?

You’re in luck, they currently fly from most UK airports – London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester Airport, Edinburgh Airport, and Birmingham Airport.

Wanna know something else?

They’re an eight-time winner of Skytrax’s Best Airline award!

This way for cheap flights with Qatar Airways

Which is the best airline to fly to Australia?

This depends on a couple of things. Do you want a no-nonsense non-stop flight to Perth? Only Qantas currently offer that as an option from London Heathrow. If you’re happy to have a layover, where do you want to have it? Each airline will have its own hub, and where this hub is based will affect how long the second stretch of your flight to Australia will be. And then, of course, there’s also the nitty gritty details like seat pitch, Premium Economy offerings, and onboarding dining. Nail these answers down, and you’ll narrow down your pool of choices considerably!

Which is the best way to fly to Australia from the UK?

Flying to Australia is no quick hop from the UK, and most prefer to opt for an in-direct flight with a layover to help break up the trip a bit. Plus, in-direct flights will always save you a pretty penny! But there’s a definitely different strategies you can take, depending on your preferences.

Flight durations

If you prefer a longer stretch followed by a shorter stretch, then opt for an Asian airline like Singapore Airways, Cathay Pacific, or Thai Airways. These airlines have hubs in Singapore, Hong Kong and Bangkok, respectively. Now if you know your geography, you’ll know that these cities all sit closer to Australia, so you’ll have a quicker hop to your final destination after your layover.

But if you fancy it the other way round – shorter followed by longer – then you might be better off choosing one of the Middle Eastern carriers like Qatar Airways, Emirates or even Etihad Airways. These guys have hubs in Doha, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, all of which are a fair bit further from Australia.

Layover airport

Don’t overlook this one. If you’re gonna have a layover, you can at least try and aim for one that won’t bore you to tears. This is where your layover airport gets very important, very quickly. Each airline has its own hub, and this is where you’ll have your layover during your in-direct flight. Some hubs have nicer (and bigger!) airports than others, so choose wisely.

If you’ve been to Singapore’s Changi Airport and loved it (so does everyone else!), then opt for Singapore Airways. If you prefer to fly with a Middle Eastern carrier, think about which airport you’d rather hang out in for a few hours. Qatar Airways flights to Australia are routed through Hamad International Airport, super shiny and modern, whilst Emirates flights will take you through Dubai International Airport. Etihad’s hub, meanwhile, is based at Zayed International Airport, a mega futuristic space inside a hella cool-looking building.

Have a look at what each airport offers in terms of entertainment, dining, shopping, and even showers, and make your pick.

Layover city

Now, this is an obvious one. You can always turn your layover into a stopover, and spend a day or two in a whole new city on your way to Down Under. But you don’t even have to stay a day or two, depending on the distance between the airport and the city centre, you can easily squeeze in a few hours instead.

Whether you opt for a 24 hours or just 2-4 hours, many airlines and airports offer special stopover offers where they’ll pay for your hotel stay, or even put on free excursions to the city especially for their passengers – you’ll definitely want to make use of these if you can!

The airline you choose will affect where you can have a cheeky stopover, so take note of where their hubs are. You could have a holiday inside a holiday in unbelievable cities like Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Dubai.

Which Australian airline is better?

The two most prominent players are Qantas and Virgin Australia, and they cater to different types of travellers.

Qantas has the largest domestic and international network of any Australian airline. It’s perfect for international travellers, offering direct routes from London to Perth and then onward connections to all major Australian cities. Plus you can also make connections to Asia, Europe, the Americas, and the Pacific. They’re a little pricier, but for getting around Australia they’re seamless.

Virgin Australia is often cheaper than Qantas for domestic flights, especially for routes like Sydney–Melbourne or Brisbane–Adelaide, but they do have a smaller domestic and international network overall. Their Economy class is pretty spacious though, and they have free snacks! Virgin Australia is great for those who mainly want to travel domestically and are a bit more budget-conscious.

Airlines with non-stop flights to Australia

Qantas is currently the only airline to offer a non-stop direct flight to Australia from the UK, on their London to Perth route.

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