Qantas head of commercial strategy: 'Absolutely' potential for more routes from Perth to Europe
Qantas Group head of commercial strategy and performance Scott Zeglin, speaking at Routes Asia 2025, described (25-Mar-2025) Perth as a vibrant and growing market in terms of demand and geography, and the carrier's hub at Perth Airport as "unique for Australia". Mr Zeglin said operating hubs in Perth and in eastern Australia will enable the group to reach "any two spots on earth from Australia nonstop" with new ultra long haul aircraft. He said there is "absolutely" potential for more routes from Perth to Europe and "anything north and west bound". He also described the A321XLR as "a great aircraft for Perth" and the flexibility it provides as "quite important and quite exciting".
Background ✨
Perth Airport aimed to become Qantas' second largest international hub, emphasising its strategic importance and geographical potential for routes to Africa, Europe, and Asia1 2. The Western Australian government supported expanding aviation connections, enhancing Perth's role as a hub for travel and trade2. Qantas applied for rights for Jetstar to operate a Perth-Manila service, currently dominated by Philippine Airlines3. Perth's time zone aligns with 60% of the world's population, presenting significant market potential4.