Qantas Introduces Economy Plus: Enjoy More Space on A321XLR, A220, and 737s

Qantas has exciting news for travelers: they are introducing a new cabin product called ‘Economy Plus,’ set to debut in February 2026. This option aims to enhance passenger comfort with increased legroom and additional benefits on domestic and short-haul international routes.

Economy Plus will be available on the airline’s Airbus A321XLR, A220, and Boeing 737 aircraft that service domestic routes in Australia, as well as flights to New Zealand and various Pacific Island destinations.

What Economy Plus Offers

Passengers can expect up to 40% more legroom with Economy Plus seats compared to standard economy options, allowing for greater comfort and space between seats. The offering also includes priority boarding and quicker access to overhead baggage compartments.

Qantas recognizes a strong demand from travelers seeking more space without the jump to business class. Interestingly, over 21,000 seats near the front of the economy class are chosen weekly by frequent flyers.

Frequent Flyer Benefits

Frequent flyers will benefit significantly from Economy Plus. Those at the Platinum level and above can select these seats during booking, while Gold members can access them free of charge at check-in.

Other passengers may purchase Economy Plus seats, although specific pricing details are still to be announced. Qantas plans to provide this information closer to the product’s launch in February 2026.

Fleet Modernization

The launch of Economy Plus aligns with Qantas’s efforts to modernize its fleet, which includes an order for 48 state-of-the-art A321XLR aircraft. The first two of these planes began flying domestic routes in September 2025, with the third expected to follow by year’s end.

Both the new A321XLR and A220 will arrive with Economy Plus seating already in place. Additionally, Qantas plans to reconfigure its existing Boeing 737 fleet to incorporate Economy Plus seats starting in December 2025.

Vanessa Hudson, Qantas Group CEO, emphasized that this new offering enhances travel options while rewarding loyal frequent flyers. She stated, “This is an evolution of our Economy offering and delivers more choice for our customers while recognising our most loyal frequent flyers with expanded benefits.”

Hudson also noted, “We’re always looking for ways to enhance the onboard experience and maximize comfort for our customers.” She believes Economy Plus will appeal greatly to both corporate and leisure travelers.

Economy Plus will be available on any route operated by the specified aircraft types, covering Qantas’s extensive domestic network throughout Australia and popular short-haul international destinations, including Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and various Pacific Island locations.