Qantas will boost versatility of international fleet with new widebody order

The latest round of aircraft orders from Qantas has major ramifications for its international network, as the airline fills in more detail about the shape of its fleet for the next few decades.

Qantas has secured additional orders for Boeing 787s and Airbus A350s for the replacement of its A330 fleet, and it has also confirmed that it intends eventually to use A350-1000s to replace its A380s.

This follows earlier order decisions that covered the refresh and growth of other parts of the group's fleet. Qantas described the new widebody orders as "the final piece of its jet fleet renewal programme".

The latest move is far more than a mere replacement, however, as the aircraft ordered will have more capabilities than the A330s.

This will give the airline greater network opportunities and planning flexibility.