The Qantas A380 has always been a little special for me, It’s the aircraft I fondly remember going on as a kid when travelling from Australia to the United States with my family. As someone that has always loved aircraft and been obsessed with how they work, travelling on this particular type of machine at that age was absolutely mind-blowing, still is a little to this day.
When I saw that there was a First award on the A380, I immediately booked. I had cancelled 2 previous Qantas First awards in the past and knew I couldn’t let it slip away for the third time.
As I was flying in from Brisbane, I exited the domestic terminal and walked to the Qantas First check-in. From there, one of the Qantas staff members assisted me through security and up into the First lounge, this was my first time visiting the Melbourne lounge so I was quite excited.
Boarding was started on-time but luckily I was able to get some photos of the cabin before it got busy which is always a bonus.
Qantas First Class
The Qantas A380 First Class cabin consists of 14 suites is in a 1-1-1 configuration with every seat featuring a pitch of 79” and a width of 22.”
Qantas will be upgrading their A380’s to feature the same Business, Premium & Economy product as their 787-9 but unfortunately First won’t get a full upgrade. Instead of a full new product, the suites as well as onboard bar upstairs will be given a facelift.
The first upgraded A380 will be in service this month.
Seat 2K
For the flight, I chose seat 1K.
Qantas First Class
Awaiting at your seat is a plush blanket and pillow.
Qantas First Class
The TV screen in Qantas First is retractable making the ottoman a second seat, this means it’s possible for two people to dine or sit together in the one suite.
If you’re planning on doing this, your accompanying passenger has to be also be seated in First 😉
Qantas First Class
As I settled into my seat, the crew came around to introduce themselves. On my recent Qantas flights I’ve been lucky to have a really friendly and warm crew, I got the exact same vibe on this flight.
I was offered a pre-departure beverage as well as given pyjamas, an amenity kit and menus for the service.
Qantas First Class
Qantas First Class
To start off the meal service was a Yasa caviar tartlet with creme fraiche.
Qantas First Class
For the entree, I went with the Sri Lankan skewers.
Qantas First Class
And for the main dish, I went with the Rockpool Bar and Grill Grim Beef fillet.
Qantas First Class
One thing Qantas do extremely well is their catering and this flight wasn’t an exception, the overall flavour and freshness of the food was outstanding, the food really exceeded my expectations.
After eating and resting for a bit, I decided to go for a walk around the aircraft and have a look at the onboard lounge area as well as the Business Class cabin which is located on the top deck of the A380.
Qantas Staircase
While the lounge isn’t as extravagant as those found on Qatar or Emirates, the space is comfortable although quite dark. Opposite the lounge is a self serve snack area where you’ll also find beverages available.
Qantas onboard lounge
Flying Kangaroo
Located on the top deck of the Qantas A380 are 64 Business Class suites which are configured in a 2-2-2 layout.
Qantas A380 Business Class
Qantas A380 First Class
Qantas A380 First Class
Qantas A380 First Class
Qantas A380 First Class
On the side of your suite is where the control panel is found, this is what will enable you to control your seating position, alter lights as well as open or close your window shades electronically.
Qantas A380 First Class
The seat also has a range of massage functions which is a nice touch.
Qantas A380 First Class
Located in the storage compartment of the suite will be your noise cancelling headphones. As for the quality, they’re not too bad, the audio quality is quite good and the noice canceling does alright.
Qantas A380 First Class
Near your feet is where the in-seat power is located. On the A380, you’re given access to 1 110v power point as well as two standard USB ports.
Qantas A380 First Class
Possibly my favourite thing about Qantas First Class would have to be the adjustable air-vents. As someone who cannot stand sleeping in a heated cabin, for me this is a huge benefit and something more airlines should do.
Qantas A380 First Class
Qantas A380 First Class
Qantas A380 First Class
Overall I had a fantastic time in Qantas First Class and would definitely fly the product again. With the new improvements coming to First like the upgraded bedding, pillow menu and coverings, I’m really wanting to give it ago on on a long-haul flight to the United States or London.
Comfort wise, I believe that this product ties with Cathay as being the most comfortable bed for sleeping, it’ll be interesting to see what the new upgrades bring and if it will change that result.
While the airline haven’t got the opulent amenities like closing doors or shower facilities, Qantas really do well in the parts where a lot of carriers fail and really don’t do well, especially onboard catering and cabin crew.
