No, Qantas does not operate the Boeing 737 MAX 8; they currently fly the older 737-800s and are introducing Airbus A321neo family aircraft (like the A321XLR) for fleet renewal, while Virgin Australia is the main Australian operator of the 737 MAX. Qantas hasn't ordered any 737 MAX aircraft and is focusing on Airbus for expansion, though the MAX was considered in the past.
Qantas and Rex don't operate any Max planes, nor do they have any on order.
Virgin Australia is currently the only Australian airline operating the 737 MAX 8, though both it and Qantas fly the older 737NG family, which includes the 737-700 and 737-800. Virgin currently has 14 MAX 8s in its fleet, and last year converted a number of MAX 10 orders to MAX 8s due to ongoing delays.
After a lengthy investigation into the crashes and changes to the design and software, the FAA, EASA and Civil Aviation Authority in the UK deemed Boeing 737 Max jets to be safe to re-enter service.
On the Boeing 737 MAX 8, 12A and 12F are the ones to avoid. We also find this problem with easyJet. If you're flying on their Airbus A320, seat 31A is the one to avoid; 31F might also not have a window, depending on the layout. Unfortunately, you can also encounter this problem on long-haul flights.
Here's our advice:
Look forward to an improved, next-generation inflight experience on our Boeing 737-800s as we embark on cabin upgrades of 42 aircraft. Upgrades will include new Business and Economy seats with charging technology, refreshed interiors and larger overhead locker space for your carry-on baggage.
United States
The most obvious tip for identifying a 737MAX, by far, is the new Advanced Technology (AT) winglet. The 737MAX was the first Boeing narrowbody family to be designed with winglets, and the new AT winglet is the most fuel efficient winglet ever installed on an aircraft.
The 737 MAX is significantly quieter than the previous generation of aircraft. The 737-8 has a 50% smaller noise footprint than the 737-800 in part because of the higher-bypass ratio on the LEAP-1B engine as well as the unique chevron design on the nacelle—another advance inspired by the 787 Dreamliner.
United Airlines and Alaska Airlines have the most 737 MAX 9 airplanes in their fleet.
Abstract. This paper analyzes U.S. aircraft maker Boeing and its recent troubles which include two accidents involving its 737 MAX airplanes resulting in the deaths of 346 passengers and crew. Boeing has been accused of rushing the 737 MAX onto the market prematurely to keep pace with rival Airbus.
Speaking to Australian Aviation on the inaugural Melbourne service, Hudson said the A321XLR will not only form the backbone of Qantas' domestic fleet as older 737s are phased out, but will also offer new opportunities in international routes.
Some pilots may find Airbus's side-stick and automation more comfortable, while others may prefer the tactile control and familiarity of Boeing's yoke.
The Qantas 72-hour rule isn't one single policy but a general guideline for actions like finalizing bookings, payments, or special requests (medical, unaccompanied minors) needed at least 72 hours before departure for processing, while also defining airline responsibilities for disruptions (like cancellations or significant delays) occurring within 72 hours, meaning Qantas offers rebooking on the next available flight without charge if an involuntary change happens close to departure. Passengers should confirm details within this window for smooth operations, but the rule mainly dictates Qantas's handling of involuntary disruptions, not voluntary changes, which follow fare rules.
Yes, the Boeing 737 MAX 8 is considered safe by global aviation regulators, having been re-certified after significant software and design fixes, mandatory pilot training updates, and extensive testing, though some passengers still choose to avoid it for personal peace of mind. The fixes addressed the MCAS software, ensuring pilots have ultimate control and the system activates less frequently with more reliable sensor data, making it safer than before, according to Boeing and Singapore Airlines.
Virgin and Bonza are currently the only two Australian airlines to operate 737 MAX aircraft, with Qantas largely turning to Airbus for its “Project Winton” fleet expansion program.
In 2019, Chinese aviation authorities grounded all Boeing 737 MAX over safety concerns. The planes were allowed to return to service approximately 4 years later. In April 2023, it was revealed that US engineers had recommended grounding 737 MAX immediately following the Ethiopian Airlines accident.
Qantas A380 Captain salaries are among the highest in Australian aviation, with senior long-haul captains earning well over AUD $400,000 annually and potentially exceeding AUD $500,000 when including allowances, bonuses, and productivity payments, reflecting their experience on major wide-body aircraft like the Airbus A380. These figures put Qantas among top-paying global airlines, rewarding the prestige and responsibility of commanding international flights.
Left: Boeing 777 – a widebody, long-haul beast with two massive engines and wide wingspan. Right: Boeing 737 – a narrow-body, short to medium-haul workhorse. 🛩️ You can clearly see the wider fuselage, larger wings, and engine scale of the 777 dominating the stand!
Following two accidents overseas involving Boeing 737 MAX aircraft that killed 346 people and led to the worldwide grounding of the aircraft, the Committee launched an investigation to ensure accountability, transparency in the certification process, and most importantly the safety of the traveling public.
FAA spokesperson Tammy Jones told KOIN 6 News that passengers can simply check their ticket or booking information through an airline's website or app. The type of plane should be listed under “plane type” or “aircraft details.” If the plane is a 737 Max 9, the words “737 Max 9” should appear under the flight details.
To completely minimize your chance of turbulence, you should also avoid flying during peak daytime hours because that's when wake turbulence caused by air traffic is most common. Larger planes handle turbulence much better than smaller ones.