Tickets for Qantas’ new Airbus 380 went on sale today causing a stir for those who wish to take the first trip between Los Angeles and Melbourne on October 20, 2008. The Airbus is scheduled to operate on select flights Los Angeles to Melbourne and Sydney, and will be phased into use on select flights from Sydney to Singapore and London beginning in early 2009.

“The first Qantas A380 will operate two round-trip services each week between Los Angeles and Australia – one to Melbourne, starting on October 20 and one to Sydney, starting on October 24, 2008,” said Qantas Senior Executive Vice President, The Americas and Pacific, Mr. Wally R. Mariani. “As the commencement of A380 services represents such an important milestone in the history of Qantas’ international operations, including here at our Los Angeles launch gateway, we are offering a limited number of very special A380 fares,” he added.

Qantas plans to introduce a second A380 aircraft in November, which will bring the number of flights up to five per week between Los Angeles and Australia: three flights to Sydney and two round-trip flights to Melbourne.

“All four classes of the A380 will offer passengers greater levels of space and comfort, as well as state-of-the-art interiors designed by Qantas Creative Director Marc Newson,” Mr. Mariani said.

“The A380 will also offer significant improvements in terms of environmental performance, including reduced fuel consumption and emissions, greater efficiency and less noise,” Mr. Mariani said.

www.qantas.com.au