Oldest Qantas A380 returns to service after being in storage : 16 years +

The Airbus A380 stands as an icon in the aviation world, captivating travelers with its engineering marvel. However, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a halt in its production, causing a surge in demand for airline travel and a scarcity of these aircraft. Now, many airlines are eager to reintroduce the A380 into their fleets to address this shortage.

Qantas, among the airlines, had one of its A380 aircraft sitting in storage for over 16 years. Now, they’re keen to put it back into service to meet the soaring demand. Meanwhile, Emirates, Etihad, and British Airways continue to operate their A380s.

Qantas’s A380, which made its debut landing at London Gatwick, had initially landed at 07:45 BST from Sydney via Singapore. Operated by the registration VH-OQJ, this flight marked a significant return to service.

Another Qantas A380, registered as VH-OQA, recently resumed operations after being stored in Abu Dhabi for over a year. Its return to Sydney on April 5 signaled its readiness to serve again. This fifteen-and-a-half-year-old aircraft made its first post-storage flight on April 6, a 13-hour journey from SYD to LAX, devoid of passengers. Shortly after arrival, it was swiftly deployed for a long-haul flight, QF11, from SYD to LAX.

These trial flights, including the Sydney to London Gatwick route, demonstrate the aircraft’s renewed capability for regular services.

Qantas, like other carriers, faces a challenge in meeting the surging passenger demand with its existing fleet. Hence, the decision to bring back stored aircraft to service is a strategic move to cater to this growing need.

Delivered to Qantas in September 2008, this A380 boasts 12 units, all equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent 900 engines and a maximum take-off weight of approximately 570,000 kg (~1.26 million lbs). Most have a seating capacity of 485, including 14 first-class seats.