Qantas Airways, fondly known as the Flying Kangaroo, is celebrating 90 years since its first international flight, marking nearly a century of aviation innovation and global connectivity. From its humble beginnings in the Australian outback to becoming one of the world’s most recognized and respected airlines, Qantas has been a symbol of endurance, ambition, and progress.
The airline’s first international flight took off on April 17, 1935, when a De Havilland DH.50 aircraft carried passengers and mail between Brisbane and Singapore. This groundbreaking journey, conducted in partnership with Britain’s Imperial Airways, paved the way for Qantas to establish itself as a key player in global aviation.
Over the decades, Qantas has achieved numerous milestones, including being the first airline to introduce a business-class service and setting new standards in long-haul travel with the development of non-stop routes. The airline’s unwavering commitment to safety has earned it a reputation as one of the safest airlines in the world.
Celebrations for this historic anniversary include a series of events highlighting Qantas’s rich heritage. The airline unveiled a specially painted aircraft featuring its iconic kangaroo logo from 1935, alongside an exhibition showcasing historical artifacts such as pilot logbooks, vintage uniforms, and advertisements.
Alan Joyce, Qantas Group CEO, expressed pride in the airline’s legacy: This milestone is a celebration of the vision and determination that transformed Qantas from a small outback airline into an enduring symbol of Australia. It’s also a tribute to the generations of employees and customers who have supported us over the decades.
The airline’s story is deeply intertwined with Australian culture. As Qantas evolved, it played a pivotal role during key historical events, from transporting troops during World War II to aiding communities in the aftermath of natural disasters. Its contributions extend beyond aviation, shaping tourism, trade, and international relations for Australia.
Looking forward, Qantas remains committed to sustainability and innovation. Its ambitious “Project Sunrise” aims to revolutionize long-haul travel with direct flights from Australia’s east coast to destinations like London and New York. These ultra-long-haul flights will feature next-generation aircraft designed for greater fuel efficiency and passenger comfort.
As Qantas celebrates its 90-year journey, the airline’s legacy serves as a reminder of the transformative power of aviation, not just in connecting people across the globe but also in fostering cultural understanding and economic development. The Flying Kangaroo continues to inspire with its vision of connecting Australia to the world and the world to Australia.
