Latest news with #QantasA380
Perth Now
12-07-2025
- Perth Now
Qantas jet hit by bridge, chaos at airport
Qantas passengers due to fly to South Africa are facing a 21-hour wait after an aerobridge collided with a plane – forcing them off the jet. Flight QF63 was due to depart Sydney for Johannesburg at 9.30am on Saturday, but passengers were unable to take off after the Airbus A380 was damaged by an aerobridge. No passengers were injured during the collision. Part of an aerobridge hit a Qantas A380's engine at Sydney Airport on Saturday morning. X, Credit: Supplied 'We're investigating how an aerobridge made contact with the engine of one of our aircraft,' a Qantas spokesman said. 'The aircraft will be inspected by engineers in Sydney and repaired before returning to service.' 'We know flight disruptions are frustrating and we apologise to our customers for the impact to their travel.' Qantas has scheduled a new flight with a revised takeoff time of 6.45am on Sunday. This means passengers will have to wait 21-hours before travelling. Customers will be provided with overnight accommodation and transport in Sydney if required.
Scoop
25-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
The Inflight Entertainment Visionary Taking Australian Aviation To New Heights
The visionary, Blanger-Martin, has set his sights on the land down under, bringing with him a vision that promises to revolutionise how Australians fly and stay connected at 35,000 feet. A Qantas A380 thunders overhead, carrying hundreds of passengers bound for London. Inside the cabin, travellers settle into their seats, fingers dancing across screens as they browse an impressive array of entertainment options. Little do they know that the architect of their inflight experience, Louis Bélanger-Martin, is about to transform Australian aviation in ways they can scarcely imagine. On this crisp autumn morning in 2025, the Canadian-born entrepreneur stands at the precipice of a new frontier. Having conquered North American and European skies, Bélanger-Martin has set his sights on the land down under, bringing with him a vision that promises to revolutionise how Australians fly and stay connected at 35,000 feet. The Quiet Revolution in the Clouds Engineers and designers huddle around holographic displays in a nondescript office building overlooking Darling Harbour, fine-tuning what industry insiders call ' the next big leap ' in inflight entertainment. This is the Australian headquarters of Bélanger-Martin's latest venture, a startup that blends cutting-edge AI with immersive virtual reality technology. ' What Louis is doing here isn't just about keeping passengers entertained,' whispers an anonymous spokesperson, their eyes darting around the room as if sharing state secrets. ' He's creating a digital ecosystem to transform aircraft into flying smart cities. Did you know he once coded an entire game engine during a transatlantic flight, just because he was bored with the existing options? ' This anecdote, while unverified, speaks volumes about the drive and ingenuity that have propelled Bélanger-Martin to the forefront of the aviation technology sector. From founding DTI Software in 1995 to orchestrating the $650 million deal that created Global Eagle Entertainment in 2013, his career has been defined by an uncanny ability to anticipate and shape the future of air travel. Connectivity at the Core of Innovation As Australia grapples with connecting its vast, often remote territories, Bélanger-Martin's expertise in satellite technology and inflight Wi-Fi solutions could not be more timely. The country's major airlines have been scrambling to keep pace with the explosive demand for high-speed internet access during flights. According to the latest industry reports, inflight Wi-Fi demand will surge by an astounding 300% by 2030. This growth is driven not just by passengers' desire to stay connected but by airlines' recognition of the revenue potential in offering seamless digital services. From Entertainment to Experience With some of the world's longest non-stop routes, including the Perth to London 'Kangaroo Route,' Australian carriers are eager for solutions to keep passengers engaged and comfortable for extended periods. ' Louis doesn't just see a captive audience; he sees a community waiting to be connected,' reveals a senior executive at a major Australian airline, speaking anonymously. ' His plans for integrating social gaming and virtual reality experiences tailored to flight paths could turn strangers into friends and transform dead time into shared adventures. ' This approach aligns perfectly with Australia's tech-savvy population and its airlines' reputation for innovation. Major airlines have already expressed interest in Bélanger-Martin's proposed 'virtual window' technology, allowing passengers in middle seats to enjoy panoramic outside views through advanced display systems. Challenges Bélanger-Martin must navigate the complex regulatory landscape of Australian aviation. The country's stringent data privacy laws and the technical challenges of providing consistent connectivity over the Outback's vast, often empty expanses will test even his considerable expertise. Yet, if his track record is any indication, these obstacles are likely to spark even greater innovation. The potential impact extends far beyond the confines of aircraft cabins. Bélanger-Martin's work in inflight connectivity and entertainment systems has implications for remote education, telemedicine, and even disaster response in Australia's far-flung communities. As the sun sets on another day of frenetic activity at his Sydney office, Louis Bélanger-Martin pauses to reflect on the journey ahead. ' Australia isn't just another market, ' he muses, gazing at the harbour lights. ' It's a continent of storytellers and innovators, of dreamers who've always looked to the skies. Our job is to ensure that when they do, they see not just stars but boundless possibilities.' As passengers board flights across Australia, they may not know Louis Bélanger-Martin's name. But as they settle into their seats, plug into immersive worlds, or conduct business seamlessly at 30,000 feet, they'll be experiencing the future he envisioned – a future where the journey is just as extraordinary as the destination.
Scoop
25-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
The Inflight Entertainment Visionary Taking Australian Aviation To New Heights
A Qantas A380 thunders overhead, carrying hundreds of passengers bound for London. Inside the cabin, travellers settle into their seats, fingers dancing across screens as they browse an impressive array of entertainment options. Little do they know that the architect of their inflight experience, Louis Bélanger-Martin, is about to transform Australian aviation in ways they can scarcely imagine. On this crisp autumn morning in 2025, the Canadian-born entrepreneur stands at the precipice of a new frontier. Having conquered North American and European skies, Bélanger-Martin has set his sights on the land down under, bringing with him a vision that promises to revolutionise how Australians fly and stay connected at 35,000 feet. The Quiet Revolution in the Clouds Engineers and designers huddle around holographic displays in a nondescript office building overlooking Darling Harbour, fine-tuning what industry insiders call " the next big leap" in inflight entertainment. This is the Australian headquarters of Bélanger-Martin's latest venture, a startup that blends cutting-edge AI with immersive virtual reality technology. " What Louis is doing here isn't just about keeping passengers entertained," whispers an anonymous spokesperson, their eyes darting around the room as if sharing state secrets. " He's creating a digital ecosystem to transform aircraft into flying smart cities. Did you know he once coded an entire game engine during a transatlantic flight, just because he was bored with the existing options?" This anecdote, while unverified, speaks volumes about the drive and ingenuity that have propelled Bélanger-Martin to the forefront of the aviation technology sector. From founding DTI Software in 1995 to orchestrating the $650 million deal that created Global Eagle Entertainment in 2013, his career has been defined by an uncanny ability to anticipate and shape the future of air travel. Connectivity at the Core of Innovation As Australia grapples with connecting its vast, often remote territories, Bélanger-Martin's expertise in satellite technology and inflight Wi-Fi solutions could not be more timely. The country's major airlines have been scrambling to keep pace with the explosive demand for high-speed internet access during flights. According to the latest industry reports, inflight Wi-Fi demand will surge by an astounding 300% by 2030. This growth is driven not just by passengers' desire to stay connected but by airlines' recognition of the revenue potential in offering seamless digital services. From Entertainment to Experience With some of the world's longest non-stop routes, including the Perth to London "Kangaroo Route," Australian carriers are eager for solutions to keep passengers engaged and comfortable for extended periods. " Louis doesn't just see a captive audience; he sees a community waiting to be connected," reveals a senior executive at a major Australian airline, speaking anonymously. " His plans for integrating social gaming and virtual reality experiences tailored to flight paths could turn strangers into friends and transform dead time into shared adventures." This approach aligns perfectly with Australia's tech-savvy population and its airlines' reputation for innovation. Major airlines have already expressed interest in Bélanger-Martin's proposed "virtual window" technology, allowing passengers in middle seats to enjoy panoramic outside views through advanced display systems. Challenges Bélanger-Martin must navigate the complex regulatory landscape of Australian aviation. The country's stringent data privacy laws and the technical challenges of providing consistent connectivity over the Outback's vast, often empty expanses will test even his considerable expertise. Yet, if his track record is any indication, these obstacles are likely to spark even greater innovation. The potential impact extends far beyond the confines of aircraft cabins. Bélanger-Martin's work in inflight connectivity and entertainment systems has implications for remote education, telemedicine, and even disaster response in Australia's far-flung communities. As the sun sets on another day of frenetic activity at his Sydney office, Louis Bélanger-Martin pauses to reflect on the journey ahead. " Australia isn't just another market," he muses, gazing at the harbour lights. " It's a continent of storytellers and innovators, of dreamers who've always looked to the skies. Our job is to ensure that when they do, they see not just stars but boundless possibilities." As passengers board flights across Australia, they may not know Louis Bélanger-Martin's name. But as they settle into their seats, plug into immersive worlds, or conduct business seamlessly at 30,000 feet, they'll be experiencing the future he envisioned – a future where the journey is just as extraordinary as the destination.
Time of India
10-06-2025
- Time of India
Qantas flight diverted: Singapore bound plane forced to emergency land after passenger falls ill; 400 passengers strander
File photo A Qantas flight from London to Singapore was forced to make an emergency landing in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Sunday after a passenger suffered a medical emergency mid-flight. The Airbus A380 was operating as flight QF2 and had departed London Heathrow at 9:12 pm local time on June 8 with nearly 400 passengers onboard. After flying for about eight hours, the aircraft turned around while over Turkmenistan and diverted to Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku. According to Qantas, the crew made the emergency landing request due to a medical issue involving a woman in her 60s who was travelling with her husband. The aircraft landed safely at 8:10 am local time on June 9, and local medical teams promptly assisted the passenger and transported her to a nearby hospital for further care. 'Our London to Singapore service diverted to Baku in Azerbaijan yesterday due to a medical incident onboard,' a Qantas spokesperson was quoted as saying to Colitco. 'We apologise to customers for the disruption and are working to get them on their way to Singapore as soon as possible.' The incident resulted in an unexpected stopover for all other passengers. The airline said the flight could not continue the journey immediately due to the crew reaching their legal duty time limits. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy Brass Idols - Handmade Brass Statues for Home & Gifting Luxeartisanship Buy Now Undo Qantas arranged hotel accommodation and temporary visas for the stranded travellers, with a continuation flight scheduled for June 10 from Baku to Singapore. Heydar Aliyev International Airport is one of the few airports in the region equipped to handle large aircraft like the Airbus A380. Its long runways, technical facilities and advanced ground handling systems allowed for a smooth diversion. The A380 is the world's largest passenger aircraft and requires specific infrastructure that only a limited number of airports worldwide can provide. The aircraft was originally due for routine maintenance in Singapore. However, Qantas confirmed those checks would now take place in Baku. An engineer specialising in the A380 has been flown in from London to carry out inspections. Once completed, the aircraft will resume its route from Singapore to Sydney. This is not the first time Qantas has had to divert due to a medical issue. On June 5, another Qantas flight, QF9 from Perth to London, made an unscheduled landing in Malé, Maldives, following a similar incident onboard a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Passengers on that flight also faced delays as the airline managed the diversion and recovery process. Baku has served as a diversion point for Qantas in the past. In 2022, a Qantas A380 landed there after a cargo smoke alert that was later traced to a faulty sensor.
The Independent
02-05-2025
- Business
- The Independent
These are the seats passengers will use for the world's longest flight
There's long-haul – then there's flying non-stop from New York and London to Sydney, a 10,000-mile (16,000km) journey that Qantas will offer from 2027 and is calling "the final frontier of aviation". The Australian carrier has dubbed the new service Project Sunrise and ordered modified Airbus A350-1000 aircraft to operate it. What's more, these planes – following extensive scientific research by Qantas into ultra-long-haul flights which included several test runs of the route – will have unique interiors with fewer seats (238 vs over 300 on a regular A350) that are designed to offer maximum comfort levels, from hotel-suite-style first-class berths to "wellness zones". Here's a tour of the cabins that passengers will be seated in for the 19-and-a-half-hour flights… First class The Project Sunrise A350 will feature six first-class cabins in a 1-1-1 configuration that will be veritable airborne hotel suites, judging by the renderings. They will offer 50 percent more space than the Qantas A380 first berths, the carrier claims, and feature a 6ft 5in flat bed (one inch longer than the A380 first-class bed), separate reclining armchair, a work and dining space for one or two people, and a full-length wardrobe. Movies will be enjoyed on a 32-inch screen with Bluetooth connectivity and privacy is guaranteed, thanks to 4ft 6in-high walls and a sliding door. Business class On paper, the 1-2-1-configured business-class cabin for the epic flight approaches the luxuriousness of the Qantas A380 first-class suite, with a 25-inch-wide seat (one inch wider than the A380 business-class seat) that transforms into a 6ft 5in bed. Privacy, meanwhile, comes courtesy of 3ft 9in-high walls and a sliding door. Within the cocoon, passengers will watch movies and shows on an 18-inch screen (that's two inches bigger than the Qantas A380 and Dreamliner's), store belongings in an upholstered glovebox and inside a leather ottoman – and park cocktails on a shelf to the side of the seat. Premium economy Upgrade to premium economy for the globe-crossing flight and you'll enjoy a "generous" 40-inch seat pitch, winged headrests and a calf rest, along with a 13.3-inch entertainment screen. On the storage front, will be three pockets for personal items, while devices can be charged using USB-C ports. Qantas says that in the brand-new premium cabin, "every detail has been carefully considered". Economy This is the class that could well make or break Project Sunrise, as it will be the least roomy, of course, and the one that the majority of flyers will use. So, what's in store at the back of the plane? "A cabin with your utmost comfort in mind," claims Qantas, which points out that the seats, arranged in a 3-3-3 pattern, have a 33-inch pitch and a six-way adjustable headrest, and that the screen is the same size as the one in premium economy – 13.3 inches. Beneath this screen is a nifty-looking folddown shelf for personal devices that passengers will surely appreciate. The wellness zone All passengers will be able to access an onboard "Wellbeing Zone", located between the economy and premium economy cabins. Qantas describes it as "a dedicated space to optimise wellbeing throughout the flight". Within is a "movement space" with padded walls for "comfort leaning" and a self-serve bar stocked with "premium refreshments".
