Qantas sale: National carrier launches ‘surprise’ 72-hour sale with prices beginning at $99 one-way to cities around Australia

Qantas has launched a three-day flight sale in response to Virgin doing exactly the same thing on Tuesday.

But while Virgin offered flights from $86, Qantas’s bargain basement trips start a little higher, at $99 – and Qantas flights are increasing anyway.

The national carrier’s competitively priced flights cover more than 60 domestic destinations, with the airline saying it offers Australians the chance to explore their home country.

More than 40 of these routes have seats available for $150 or less for travel periods both this year and next year.

Those who are quick on the draw – and flexible in when they can fly – can get economy fares from Melbourne to Sydney for $145, Adelaide to Melbourne for $125 and Sunshine Coast to Melbourne for $159.

Customers who still have Qantas Covid credit can request a refund or get double Qantas Points on all flights booked with a Covid credit before December 31.

Regardless of the airline’s short sale, flight prices will rise as rising costs are passed on to its customers.

Ticket prices on domestic and international Qantas flights will increase by 3.5 percent from October 27, increasing pressure on cash-strapped Australians.

The carrier said it had “no choice” but to raise prices as it struggles to meet rising fuel costs, but the move has angered customers.

‘It just seems like they’re taking the p***. Australians don’t like that,” an irritated woman told 9News.

In a statement, Qantas said it was no longer able to absorb rising fuel costs caused by factors including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and a weak Australian dollar.

Jetstar flights will also become 3 percent more expensive from next week.

Virgin’s discounted fares are available to selected destinations between January 2024 and June 20, 2024.

The airline is also offering dual status credits on eligible flights that give regular travelers additional points under the Velocity Frequent Flyer Loyalty program.

Virgin’s discounted prices only apply to one-way Economy Lite seats.

But while Virgin offered flights from $86, Qantas’s bargain basement trips start a little higher, at $99

Melbourne residents looking for warmth and a bit of sun can fly to the Sunshine Coast for just $125.

Sydneysiders looking to holiday next year can head to Hamilton Island for $126, while Brisbane residents can fly to the other side of the country in Perth for $239.

The cheapest destinations on the list are Sydney to Launceston, Tasmania and Brisbane to Prosperine, Queensland for $86.

Brisbane residents also get the cheapest discounted price, flying to Newcastle for $95.

Adelaide residents can travel to the nation’s capital for $160 one-way.

Virgin Australia said the 72-hour sale would still give Aussies struggling with the cost of living the chance to go on a cheaper holiday.

Virgin is offering Double Status Credits on eligible flights, giving regular travelers additional points under the Velocity Frequent Flyer Loyalty program. Hamilton Island, one of the destinations for sale, is pictured

Virgin is offering domestic flights for just $86 as part of a huge three-day sale

Many of the flights to these destinations fill up quickly during the month of January, and most of the discounted prices can be seen in available bookings from February onwards.

“The highly anticipated Velocity double Status Credits offer will help the loyalty program’s nearly 12 million members climb status faster,” a Virgin Australia spokesperson said.

‘Flying with Gold or Platinum status comes with a range of perks, including lounge access, priority boarding, seat selection and increased checked baggage allowance.’

However, if you’re looking for a bargain, you’ll need to act quickly. Offer ends on October 26 at 11:59pm (AEDT) or until sold out earlier.