Couldn’t agree with you more Ryan. Spot on commentary.. From sacking of experienced employees during Covid, the misuse of job keeper payments to apparently keep the airline afloat during that time & now hired labour at less cost, things haven’t improved with Qantas. Aircraft mothballed & problems bringing things back online with travel increasing again continued the decline. Cancelled, delayed flights are still part of Qantas operations, what a fall.. It angers me it was all about keeping Qantas profitable & those great experienced cabin crew, ground staff meant nothing. Now look at the staffing & morale, let alone the contempt we now feel towards them with a huge payout to Alan Joyce. Your video was so well researched & accurate, well done.. Looking forward to your next travels..
@@ryansofly One of my most delayed flights with my travels has been Jetstar’s Melb Singapore flight. I travel with Scoot to Singapore now. 9 hr delays on Ho Chi Minh flight with Jetstar, I’d had enough. Good luck, have a great Christmas mate.
I believe it was outsourcing in so many areas of QANTAS operations where it lost it's brand identity and also it's high standards. Once you outsource, you no longer have direct control of anything. These large companies like Swissport, Danata and the like do things their way for all the different airlines that use them, so everything then becomes the same. Cost cutting like you mentioned, such as getting rid of the hot towels and reduction of catering standards, has been noticed by all passengers. I remember the days in economy some 40 years ago, when pre-flight drinks were offered, meal trays were much larger with premium meals (even between Sydney and Auckland), hot towels and the list goes on. Nice comfy seats with proper padding. Not like those horrible slimline seats we have in economy these days that are less comfortable than our suburban buses. We've all seen the deterioration of standards over the decades and quite frankly everyone has had enough.
Great insight Ryan, my dealings with QF are so long ago, so I didn't know any different, but on reflection, I didn't feel like a passenger, but rather as an annoyance as a 20yr old. But I soon realised working in SYD at the Menzies Hotel, we had SAA, CPAir & BA crew staying...they were just as crude, brash like everyone. Since then, everytime I travel, i treat everyone with dignity. x
Well that's a great story and a timely reminder how we treat service staff say more about us than anything else. Wow... CP Air, that was pre-Canadian! Definitely retro!
@@ryansofly It sure was Ryan, and I still keep in touch with an ex- CP air steward on FB. They were great times before the Aids pandemic. But I sure had a good time on Oxford Street back in the 80's. Alas it no longer has the zing x
@@richardcaldwell9160 funny you should mention Oxford. That was what started it all for me. Before that I had no concept of a "gay street" until I visited Sydney.
A very insightful dissection of the residual issues Qantas has procured over the many years of service. Pre Covid my wife and I were loyal FF products, meaning we used our purchase power to generate FF points. We regularly flew domestically and managed to upgrade 100% of the time. Post Covid we've arrived to a point where we seek other carriers, simply because Qantas doesn't offer value for the premium service it offers. Thank you for this excellent review.
Thanks for watching. Like you guys, I too am a FF points junkie. My life revolves around points and my purchases are planned accordingly. I no longer see the reason to fly QF on international flights because it does not make financial sense. They sooooooo expensive with nothing to show for it. Even in domestic runs, I will never ever pay to fly them. I'd rather pay for JQ or VA. QF flights for me are PURELY redemption only. As for international, my QF points go into redeeming flights with their partners. I'm heading to Hokkaido in November. QF on the clapped out A330, or China Airlines on an ultra modern A350 with the full works, better service, better food... Choice was a no brainer.
It is fascinating to note that there is something related to being Irish and a disdain for people, pax and staff. Willie Walsh oversaw the decline of BA and now at IAG has a group of very undistinguished airlines. O'Leary has in Ryanair the most abusive attitude towards Pax. And Joyce has left a hollow brand at Quaintass. Interesting and sad because once you damage your brand it costs a whole lot more to build it back or you inevitability enter terminal decline because there are always competitors who are ready to eat your lunch.
QF has struck gold with the HOME campaign because that keeps people flying them, and yet they don't have to provide much else (they have no incentive to).
Congratulations on an excellent presentation regarding Qantas. Seriously, this video should be screened on the ABC and or SBS. So many Australians (like myself) haven’t viewed the Qantas picture as a whole and why this great airline has been gutted. As an example (and I hope Qantas read this), I’m travelling to Japan in 2024 and have booked and paid for the tickets with another airline. Once it would only have been Qantas, withno other consideration. Now, no way would I travel with them for a range of reasons. To see the “choir” period saddens me as in those days, to board a Qantas jet anywhere in the world was to arrive home…
Your words are too kind. Yes, I thought the children's choir would hit the nail on how far they've fallen. Sometimes we don't realise how much lower their standards have become until we take a wider approach towards the entire picture. Thanks again for watching...
For 20+ years, Qantas has restructured itself so it has paid no tax on profit, and it's unlikely to pay any tax on profit for at least another 10 years, if ever. The final straw for the public was the huge amount of taxpayer's funding to ensure Qantas didn't go bankrupt during the pandemic, which was trousered by the board, while illegally sacking thousands. When asked on national TV whether Qantas would repay the funding, Joyce straight-faced said "The best way Qantas can repay the public is by being profitable and paying tax." It really was a let-them-eat-cake moment.
I migrated from Germany to Australia in 1978 and had since then dozens of flights between Europe and Australia mainly with SQ and QF. I did notice a huge decline in quality on flights QF1 and QF2 in Eco. No hot towels, no wine glasses, they seemed to have cut down on alcoholic beverages like GT's. Then the vending machine type small "meals" and the bamboo cutlery which I absolutely hate. I am planning to visit Germany once more next year and have a reasonable amount of Frequent Flyer points and I must say I absolutely love flying on the A380. I hope things improve by next September or I have to fly premium eco.
Intesting video and I do agree that qantas is in decline. I hope their marketing people don't see this and you get banned like Josh Cahill with Qatar Airways.
your video came from a recommendation on my sidebar, for once the algorithm got it right and was a well balanced and researched video. you just gained another subscriber mate. keep up the great work and have a wonderful new year
Thanks mate for being civil. Hahahaha.... Some of the responses here have been less than ideal. But that's QF for you, 2 very distinct camps of yay or nay with nothing in between. Happy new year to you too!
I agree with most parts Ryan, but I’ve flown Qantas many times this year is both business and economy, and I haven’t had one bad flight. I know it’s luck for some of it but it has definitely improved since Covid, hopefully only up from here.
On my last business class flight, I did notice they've increased their meal options and have reinstated a starter on the transcontinental domestic. Just wished they'd invest some of that profits back into staff and product investment. But seeing how now all their staff hires are no longer by them, there's no incentive to pay contractors more money.
There in lies the issue when the only thing holding the airline up is the cabin crew. And when that cracks, there is little left experience wise. Thanks for popping by, mate!
no wonder service is at best variable on flights when cabin crew are paid so little. I googled and the average salary was $49000 a year or $23 an hour. I know they are not the only airline to underpay staff but they only fill the positions because it's considered a great job. Paying staff would be one of the most key expenses but considering turn arounds, lack of breaks, responsibility if something were to go wrong in the sky and dealing with unruly bogans it's just a pathetic pay rate for an Australian company. I know a LOT of airlines underpay, the majority, and there are perks to make up for it but people have bills to pay! mY Qantas BC review is coming mid-Jan. It was on an A330 domestic to Sydney. The state of the cabin was poor but it was an international config which was nice. anyways thanks for a great year of vids Ryan! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Many international airlines offer way better service, and run on time with fewer cancelled flights, unlike Qantas. Plus Qantas' fares are quite often more expensive. Totally agree it's declining. New CEO Mrs Hudson is no better than Joyce, as you imply at the end when you call her (part of) 'the old guard'. What really annoys is "travel journalists" who receive free business class trips from Qantas (and competitors) and write "reviews" that with the exception of the occasional negative occupying 1 line of 200, hugely praise an airline like Qantas. They just want another freebie! Probably your best video because prospective travellers need to know how far this airline has gone downhill, and how relatively easy it is on many routes to find a keenly priced international alternative. Like you, I don't believe it'll recover.
@@ryansofly It won't give you one, but you ought be due to a part refund as JQ is even lower class than QF. How can so many international airlines NOT based in Oz run timely services with cancellations being extremely rare, yet Qantas, with most of its maintenance facilities here (bar Los Angeles) constantly runs late and often has cancellations, especially with its A330-200s/300s and B787-900s, and sometimes even its large A380-800s? Amazing.
I have followed your odyssey since the get go. Ryan and have enjoyed every minute of it. I am certainly looking forward to your future adventures. Well done.
This needs a continuation. How the Emirates alliance was great when QF flew to DXB. But has become effectively moot since QF pulled out. And we’re stuck with $1200 fees on EK reward fares to DXB. Also the hostility with Qatar, making oneworld largely useless to Australians, compared to Star Alliance, and leading to Qatar’s subsequent counter-attack alliance with Virgin Australia. Also no champagne was offered to me on Qf38 business class three weeks ago (although the Duval Leroy or Jacquart champagne was always horse pi$$).
QF classic reward seats on international flights are almost non existent if you don't have status. Which irks me because I'm silver and I stand no chance of scoring an international redemption. And I've got heaps of points.
It’s not much better for gold ff tbh. Can’t get anything back from DXB to MEL in January. Gonna have to pay cash to fly home one-way in Qatar economy from Zagreb lol@@ryansofly
Employees make or break any company, specially in tourism and transportation, Treat your staff as disposable serfs and see the quality of your products in free fall as your customers desert you. As far as I am concerned timed to re-nationalise QANTAS!
Another great video Ryan. I enjoyed listening to your perspective. As a loyal QF customer I can only sadly agree. The staff on the ground and in the air work so hard but the C suite run the place and they have much to answer for
Unfortunately they aren't held to account enough. Even when things got so bad recently, then the senate hearings.... Then NOTHING. All that showy drama with Bridget McKenzie power tripping away with her questions, nothing came out of it but an entertaining spectacle.
Excellent & thoroughly thought-out analysis Ryan... what's your background to make you capable of this analysis? Fantastic!!! Alas the way we treat staff in Australia is very American nowadays. I am NOT hopeful for Qantas either
Good question! My background is/was in marketing and branding... Which seems like a lifetime ago. I've left the corporate field more than 10 years ago and have not touched my business shirts since. Haha...
See at least with Jetstar you get what you're paying for. QANTAS sells itself as a premium service and yet their economy class experience long haul is actually no different to Jetstar on the 787 (once all the frills are thrown in). Which is pretty telling. QANTAS cancelled my SIN MEL flight on Sunday and put me on Jetstar. The latter was ironically a better flight ( better service because of the Asian crew, and more modern 787 versus the A330).
@@ericoppel5698 mate, I'm fresh off Vietnam Airlines LHR SGN MEL. Typing this in the Skybus on the way to town. Their economy class is really what QF premium economy is like. I'm just very impressed.
@@ryansofly I think Deathstar sucks as much as their main brand. Don't they expect you to board really early? Yet when they are crazy late, or the flight is cancelled altogether, they don't give a flying fark about the customer!
Interesting video and agree 💯!! Qantas is subpar in its products in comparison to other full service airlines yet they put a spin to everything they do - in the meal example it's clearly cost cutting but they spin it saying it's for the environment and also based of passenger feedback. 🤷🏻♂️
Excellent video! I always enjoy your style of presentation. I guess Qantas is running out of ways to appeal to Aussies with the advent of more competition and the numerous scandals. Crazy that they've also tightened rules around filming on board. This will definitely be a factor that I consider when I book my next flight to review.
I have not tested that no filming theory yet because this ban came about AFTER these videos were done. But they did say they don't have a problem with you filming yourself and out of the window.
You are so right on all levels. I cant believe the number of planes still in old livery As soon as A Joyce was appointed QF CEO i said the writing as on the wall. And most/ all crew agreed Absolutely shocking they pay such different rates They also have a large NZ based crew that fly the likes of the NY run. All on local rates and conditions
Yes there was a lot of disappointment with QF appointing jet connect to do the NY runs. It's the same with JQ doing their 787s with Asian based crew. They work Asia-OZ-HNL return getting paid as little as $2 an hour.
@@simonsays1234 the Thai and Indonesian crew work on that rate when converted into AUD from THB and IDR respectively. The Singaporean crew's hourly rates are closer to their Aussie counterparts.
Qantas used to fly international into and out of the capital of South Australia, Adelaide. The ceased these flight many years ago. Shame on them. If a South Australian wishes to fly QF overseas or V /V, they need to purchase a domestic ticket an fly to MEL or SYD for that 'privilege'. At their own extra cost of course. Adelaide is a city of 1.5 million people. Treat them as equals to all other Australian residents.
I agree with Ryan's comments. Similar happened with Air New Zealand. After the Ansett Australia fiasco, then Air New Zealand CEO Rob Fyfe took near bankrupt airline and rebuilt it with the help of the Unions who previously had a tense relationship with the previous senior management. Rob Fyfe was replaced by a new CEO Christopher Luxon (now NZ's Prime Minister) who did an Allan Joyce number by undoing Rob's good work by stripping the little remaining fat to bone with contracted engineering, cabin crew, basic in-flight and lounge catering, reducing seat pitch to get more 'bums on seats' in economy class, etc to make bigger profits reaching a point creating public and premium customers backlash. The current CEO Greg Foran a former CEO of Walmart USA, had the first 2 years of his contract to deal with the fall out of the global health pandemic, is trying to undo some of Luxon's harsh cost cutting to restore public and premium customer confidence in the airline and the brand. He has a battle, as the public and premium customers are not patient people but are prepared to give him time but for how long is anybody's guess.
@@ryansofly - Yep I agree. A lot of Qantas home support has gone to REX, Virgin Australia and lessor extent to Bonza. Vanssea is going to need to do a lot of hard work to win them back but I don't think she is the right person. Qantas needs to get a new CEO and possibility a new board with fresh ideas to bring back the airline's former customers.
Suppose with the issues I brought up, it kinda makes it an extremely complicated multi pronged approach on how to solve this conundrum QF finds itself it... Which was mainly by its own doing.
I really hope you do a video on that one day. as I am sure you will have it well researched and presented. Your video reminded me of the importance of focusing on the kinship economy - the value of customer connection with the brand. It's easy to give it lip service (i.e. the slick marketing campaigns) but difficult to deliver those special moments by engaged staff who believe in the brand and its identity. I have seen this done extremely well in hospitality but it would take an extremely brave board/company leadership to shift the company focus to staff engagement, customer service, service recovery, loyalty recognition and on time service as a priority... (unless the Gov buys 51% of the voting shares LOL) Keep up the great work and looking forward to your next review!
@@ISB021 I brought up SQ because I used to work for that airline. And I know the trouble they go through in order to protect their brand integrity. They almost go through it with a fine tooth comb to remove any kinks to a level that is almost obsessive. But that's why they're the best in the industry. And locals endear to that brand so much so there are some who swear by them only, and never fly anyone else. SQ fares are notoriously expensive from SIN and locals take pride in telling people they are flying SQ for their holidays. Even when I was a child, if I did well in my exams, we flew SQ. If not, it was QF/PA/CI/TG etc.
Extremely well researched and detailed......... that is truly sheet pay across all four categories. What about Jetstar, would like to hear your thoughts on it and its history under the former CEO.
I did find out quite a fair bit about JQ 's pay structure for the FAs during my research. We have Asian crew from BKK HKT and DPS getting paid AUD 2.00 per hour working on flight patterns Asia-OZ-HNL and back. It's no wonder they can't even afford to eat during their layovers.
As an add on, SIA on my last J flight from NRT to SIN was very basic in service and food/ beverage service. The girls didn’t seem to have get up and go from old. Worst, no Singapore Slings on offer.
SQ JCL service can be hit and miss, because that's where YCL FAs get trained for the next progression of premium service. So if you're unlucky enough to have a flight where a "trainee" is in place, then the experience can be a little off brand.
So disappointing to see this happening and really all staff need to be employed by Qantas rather than outside companies skimming the income of staff. The new CEO is useless and even when you have a negative experience there is no way any complaint is dealt with. And yes I still fly with Qantas only because of rewards and life time status which is so helpful when travelling on other One World airlines like AA. But while they continue to serve a $6 retail bottle of Spanish sparkling wine in the LA business lounge what hope have we got. And not to mention trying to use FF points for Business Class classic rewards Thanks for the report and look forward to hearing your opinion on what airline is the best for US travel.
QANTAS can no longer employ from within because of unions, making salaries too expensive. But they've gone to the other extreme such that I don't think it's fair to new hires. How can they afford to have a life especially in Sydney and Melbourne? You're right about the FF program, and that's the only way I'll ever fly with QF because I won't ever pay money to get on their planes.
Objective and detailed video Ryan. However airlines can be perceived differently overseas. I mean here in Europe, Qantas has a good reputation. Likewise with BA outside the UK or Lufthansa outside Germany. One drawback for Qantas is its location (as with SAA) which means that opportunities to capitalise on sixth-freedom traffic is very limited.
QANTAS doesn't have a good reputation in Asia. I was not kidding about the racist reputation, especially in the 70s till the late 90s, this rhetoric would persist. We would tease our friends who were flying QF out of Singapore for their holidays.
@@ryansofly Yes I heard you talking about that in the video. I can quite understand. Here in the UK gets positive feedback for deploying its A380s to SYD (BA won't do likewise despite many customer requests) and of course in mainland Europe those non-stops from Perth and plans for Project Sunrise get the attention. And wiser and older travellers respect Qantas for its safety record.
I have been apologising for them for far too long. I just can't believe why would anyone want to pay money to fly them especially on international flights.
I hate it when the national carrier goes downhill, especially due to bad management! I love their beautiful livery and more so that they’re Australian!
It is time we stop treating QANTAS like a national carrier, because they haven't been since 1992. But they still cry out for protection as if it was owed to them.
Your flight to Singapore was cancelled and they put you on Jetstar. So lucky the Jetstar flight operated that day. I was victim of having my Jetstar flight to Singapore cancelled at 9pm the night before. No such flight change for me, just hit the link for your refund! Jetstar knew they had aircraft unavailable and yet waited till last minute to advise passengers. Qantas economy meal service is shocking. Not served on a tray and you have to put the bread roll on the tray table (yuck) or in your lap while you balance and juggle everything. I am surprised they haven't removed the tray table as well. They became very Sydney centric as well with somewhat less a number of direct or multiple flights from Melbourne per day. (Maybe just my imagination.) Also their international network seems to have reduced in appeal or destinations which forces passengers to try other airlines and discover a better alternative. They may have made profits over the years but shareholder returns were pretty low from 2008 to 2015, IE zero! One can only hope for better days. Keep on flying Ryan ✈✈✈
Sadly not all international routes from Australian airports can make money. So being profit centric means Sydney/Melbourne centric. I'm of the opinion that international flights from Melbourne are holding up well. Just that their A330s are having reliability issues lately causing issues with some internationaldepartures
Very interesting video Ryan. Can I ask your advice? I’m arriving into SYD on BA so arriving early morning, but need to fly to BNE. Which airline would you recommend for the SYD-BNE sector?
If you're flying in economy, there's really not much of a difference between airlines. VA and JQ are buy on board LCC model, with QF you'd get a packet of crackers. It all comes down to how much you're willing to pay.
Ryan the decline of Qantas is solely due to the devastatingly bad leadership hence the new CEO will have to double down on improved service and catering to see any change. The most likely aspect is a further decline resulting in a takeover by another international airline who see the value in the Qantas organisation as a fit to their portfolio of air operations.
Ryan and others here praise Asian airlines for being able to deliver a better product. Let me be the first to pop that bubble - it is done on the backs of the low slave wages of Asian air crew, who have no choice but to accept if they wish to work in the air, or work at all. But that doesn't make airfares significantly cheaper on Vietnam or SQ. Unions are an important part of the equation that brings fair profit sharing to both labor and management. Singapore government who owns SQ also effectively controls the labor unions so there will never be any SQ strikes. I'm sure similar things are instituted in VN. And the airlines from the Middle East have access to virtually free oil. All this is good for the happy flyer but take a step back and you can see the oppression behind it.
You missed the entire Jetstar story, which is another part of the cost-reduction story. And its services are appallingly bad which, because it is still recognised as being "Qantas light" also has a negative impact on the Qantas brand. I don't think comparing with SQ is particularly helpful because SQ has now adopted an (extreme) premium pricing model, especially in Business and First to the point that many Companies who allow their managers to fly Business have excluded SQ or required the managers to pay the excess above their prefrred contracted carrier fares.
Oh trust me, in my research for this video I found out about how little the JQ long haul crew from Asian bases of Phuket, Bangkok and Bali are paid... AUD 2.00 an hour. And these poor crews operate Asia - OZ - HNL vv on the 787s. I always knew how little they're paid that's why whenever I fly JQ long haul, I always buy them Tim Tams. But dang, now I found out how little they're paid... My heart goes out to them. I stumbled upon an article about a Bangkok based crew how he could not afford to eat during his layovers in OZ. Only had the instant cup noodles he brought along from his base in Bangkok.
I have never had a problem with Qantas only that they don’t have international flight out of adelaide so I have to take a Qantas flight to Sydney or Melbourne to fly international.
Qantas has a culture of complacency. Within Australia they have a handy 'closed shop' little duopoly going with Qantas/Jetstar and Virgin. So they know that they can get away with the high prices, crap service on their customer communication links and lacksidaisical attitude to flight cancellations or changed times with little notice. They need a clean sweep of the Board, which is not fit for purpose, and a CEO who actually gives a damn about the customers who keep the airline flying and less about the cash that can be screwed out of them! The whole shebang comes down to lack of real competition, and corporate skullduggery like "Slot Hoarding" etc. I would never fly with Qantas on an overseas flight now unless there was no alternative. There are too many great airlines flying international routes to be bothered with a ramshackle carrier like Qantas!
QANTAS has been the way it is for many decades. They are a commercial entity but still treated like a government owned organisation all in the name of nationalist sentiments. Not many will care to admit they're shit, but hey... That's what makes this story worth telling.
@@ryansofly right! I would like to see some government action to encourage the smaller players to step up, and the ACCC to penalise the major airlines for uncompetitive activity. There needs to be legislation also, to penalise airlines for unjustified cancellations and time changes. At the moment, they can get away with murder and they know it!
@@ralphsmith1170 sadly not every government is willing to do what you ask for (votes). Our protective practices are VERY similar to Canada and Air Canada. There is this surface veneer of protecting local jobs but the bigger picture, we see little competition leading to higher air fares. On the flip side, Singapore has told Singapore Airlines (SQ) if you don't swim, then sink, I know so because I used to work for SQ and man we had to fight to survive. SQ does not even get air traffic priority for their flights returning to Changi, they join the line to land just like everyone else.... Consequently, Changi Airport is an open market almost to the level of being a brothel. Every airline is allowed access. But look at how successfully changi and SQ are today. QANTAS has free access to Changi to do as they wish, but SQ isn't allowed vice versa privileges from Australia. Because QF knows they're shit and can never compete against international airlines flying to Australia. So our fundamental mindset has to change in Australia, open market does not mean loss of local jobs, that's just political fear mongering. Instead, when an air hub flourishes, it creates MORE jobs. That's my 2 cents.
@@ryansofly Absolutely! My fave airline is Singaore Airlines, and the reason for that is that they DO try harder and DO endeavour to supply a quality product for their customers. They acknowledge the importance of customer service and satisfaction, because they aren't feather-bedded! Unfortunately, Qantas, Jetstar and even Virgin get 'protected species' treatment at Oz airports. It's a situagtion that needs to change. But, as you say. there is the political element to take into account, as well as the 'lobbying' card as well!
I agree that I like your style and agree plus loss of Holden and Chrysler as a local car manufacturer. Yes I am very old school Qantas was the Australian International Airline. TAA and Ansett was domestic high quality service. I appreciate your comment of VARIG , SABENA ,SWISSAIR Olympic they are all gone and the low cost carriers such as Bonza and Jetstar is now a bus with wings. Ansett should be there today on the go on in 2023 but it was lost 2002. Virgin Blue and later Virgin Australia I wished they failed hate the name and product and say no more. Quality service is important as experienced from 1960's fades out late 1990's. Ansett 727.
Yes, my first flight when I was in my early teens was with TAA, as you say there were two domestic airlines, TAA and Ansett ANA. QANTAS was the international flag carrier and considered one of the best in the World. My last flight with them was in the 1990’s Honolulu to Sydney (business class) - it was great, outstanding service and food. I no longer live in Australia so have no idea how much they’ve changed.
@@paullewis2413 Ohh I like the Ansett-ANA word so old as name changed to Ansett Airlines of Australia November 1968 with new orange black cheat line colours and the orange delta logo with type face late 1960's style. TAA is now Qantas. Loved TAA colours gold with navy blue T on 727 and DC-9 T-Jet tails! Non-stop flights were labeled as T-Jet Rocket flights on paper time tables. It looked great. Great service as well all gone now. Ansett 727.
While it sounds like a good profit.. if you consider the amount of aircraft Qantas needs to replace over the next 5yrs, it actually needs to be higher over the next 5yrs. As a public company (not govt owned) you actually need to make money to improve the product. And there are a lot of 350s, 789s, and 321LR, 321XLR and 220s on order
I believe QF had a lost opportunity with the 777s. They were surprisingly part of the initial team with a host of other major airlines in Boeing's initial phases. Then their wide body fleet went quiet for a while, 744 retired, 787 delivered, A330 chugging along... That's my pet peeve, their international offerings are embarrassing. The premium they charge just does not justify the product delivered.
@@ryansofly Yes, it is pretty sad to watch. And it is not just Australia. The whole Western world is in decline as democracies devolve into plutocracies.
Think a lot of us have. My QF points are used to redeem other airlines when I fly international. No way am I going to waste money on QF flying overseas.
I couldn’t agree more, although I’m not sure why you feel an anti Trump comment adds value. I used to fly them every year LA to Sydney 747-400, A380 every year for 15 16 17 years (forgot the count) and loved them and then after the Covid crap firing all the employees making them take a jab to work screwing their customers, over charging, screwing over miles members, screwing the employees laying them all off. Alan Joyce was the worst thing to happen to that airline. I’ll never fly them again sad. … They actually lost me emotionally when they shipped heavy maintenance to Singapore and staples were used for emergency exit lighting. The only reason I stuck with them was because they had Bundy on board… oh and now a Hanson comment…. Why can’t you all stick to the topic, injecting your political beliefs pisses off half your audience…. unsubbing.
Unfortunately the flight are scheduled that one has to fly from point to point on Quantas to get to a better airline or departure date out of the country.
I travelled this year to usa and comparing the delta, american airlines, canada air and even iceland air to qantas, i still felt qantas was better. But i think it wasnt fair that the government helped them up in covid and then qantas announced all the profit they now make- maybe some should go back to the government.
Suppose when you're looking at the now, and especially comparing it to US airlines, then yes QF is paradise. The mistake ScoMo did was offering that bail out money as is, and not as a loan.
@@paulorocky yesterday, QF cancelled my MEL SIN flight and we got put on Jetstar instead. Frankly, there is very little difference in economy class between them 2 so it's very telling how far QF has fallen.
Qantas sucks i avoid at all costs.. Vietnam Airlines Singapore etc etc provide better experience and usually better or same prices..i still love seeing the qantas a380 is a beautiful sight..but they have a lot of improving too do
It’s interesting when you mentioned that Qantas had a racist reputation in Asia. A lot of other Australian companies that operated in Asia were well respected.
Its just the way a typical Singaporean views Australia. Of course, I don't find that to be true. But the reaction of Singaporeans to QANTAS is one of contempt and a look of pity towards a QF passenger. 😂
@@ryansoflypossibly an airline like Virgin Australia might receive a warmer reception in Singapore with its emphasis on non white cabin crew and socially progressive values.
@@richgj88 VA with their socially progressive vibe yes. As for non white FAs, think both airlines are equal in that respect. I had indigenous friends who went on to become QF FAs under a special program designed for the indigenous community. This was back in the day before recruitment was outsourced to labour hire and unions were strong.
@@ryansoflyQantas definitely has a lot of issues to overcome. My uncle used to work for Qantas for over 25 years up until the COVID-19 and he was very critical of Qantas management.
Interesting comment regarding the racist reputation 7:40 my older Singapore friend said the same and REFUSED to fly Qantas for decades. He gave it a go last year and did not say the same haha
@@ryansofly up to 17:50 now. I remember my first trip to Australia in 2012, HKG-SYD-CNS-BNE-HKG. All flights (including the domestic ones) had meals like this, on a tray. Now we're celebrating free wine after 12pm lol
@@tw25rw as far as I'm concerned, Singapore is some of the world's most racist countries glossed over by constant propaganda of racial harmony. My immediate family is very guilty of such behaviours which would so not fly in Australia. So no, I'm not surprised by your comment.
Interesting (I learned a lot about labour conditions at Qantas), but a mixed bag. Standards have definitely fallen in terms of catering and the like (compare it to Emirates or Taiwan's China Airlines and the difference is stark). Working conditions and staff morale aren't great. These things matter. The Qantas Club in Townsville using a slightly different font does not. I think the comparisons to SQ also touch on cultural differences. SQ crews are elegant and polished. You notice them when you walk past them in an airport. While these are highly sought after jobs, there's also something a little icky about it all to me. Strict rules about age, ethnicity and body shape. QF crew look like anyone in Sydney or Melbourne. Different ages, body shapes, ethnicities and the like. To me (but probably not to others), the eager to please Singapore Girl image feels a little dated (not to mention mildly sexist and even possibly racist) in 2024.
Cheers, mate! Thanks for popping by! I used to work for SQ, and I've seen first hand the trouble they go through to protect the brand. They actually protect it with a litany of military like precision methods which the entire organisation adheres to. And this is translated into how the company is presented to the world. My professional background is also in branding and marketing. And that was applied in my comparison between these 2 airlines. In branding circles, SQ is studied by many and their methods are definitely divisive. But everyone's goal is the same, to increase the worth of their brand equity to the level of that airline's. QANTAS is in a VERY unique position with their strong emotional connection with Aussies. They've somehow failed to hold on to that capitalisation. As you've also mentioned China Airlines, you might wish to check out this video linked below. ua-cam.com/video/SayprV7aVMI/v-deo.htmlsi=-yJTCXOUU64dVEH-
You forgot or purposely omitted that QANTAS has always been, and continues to be, the safest airline in the world. Otherwise what you have said is very true. I"m an Australian and have travelled the world extensively. I have not used QANTAS for my last 20 international flights. QANTAS flights are too expensive, and the onboard service very poor, ( in my opinion). Good riddence to Allan Joyce! .
QF being the safest airline in the world is irrelevant, because heaps of other airlines around the world flying into OZ are also safe. And that's the issue, QF preys on this and that emotional connection of being AUSTRALIAN, and with the HOME ad campaign .. hooks people into coming back with high fares offering very little in return.
Ryan I do like your reviews and your content in general however in your comparison of Qantas versus Singapore airlines I do find your judgements to be somewhat subjective. The comparison between the two is unrealistic as the cultural nuances and industrial approaches within each organisation and bound by their own countries approach to industrial regulation doesn’t allow a fair comparison. Singapore is a very small island and when you talk about marketing how many clubs do Singapore airlines manage in Singapore as opposed to Qantas in Australia. Australia is a very large continent with a vast number of clubs compared to SIN. Also when you talk about brand control Singapore Airlines has tight control over their workforce and workforce expectations which are also cultural nuances. The Singapore girl marketing by Singapore Airlines is smart and iconic but the expectations on female staff could be considered quite sexist and bordering upon discriminatory. You won’t get a large size Singapore Girl now would you. The lifespan of a Singapore airlines flight attendant is also very much shorter than that of most flight attendants for exactly this reason, you being a former FA for Singapore airlines would surely be well aware of this. The aesthetics you talk about in relation to catering, whilst I don’t disagree are evident are also because of cultural ideological differences. I personally think rather than deriding QF just don’t fly them because sometimes your criticism comes off as a little entitled.
Ha... I was looking at it from a branding perspective, nothing more nothing less. Because that was my professional white collar corporate background. I used SQ as an example because that brand is studied in lecture halls the world over how Batey Ads has handled this account, and by extension how the airline themselves handle their brand. Is SQ girl sexist and outdated? Absolutely! I don't disagree there. Would I want to see a QF Girl? Absolutely not. Did not mean to come off as entitled, I apologise. I do want QF to thrive, despite my videos.
Why must we be practically compelled to view close-up images of people shovelling food into their mouths!! This is bloody gross to say the least!! Nobody really wants to view such close-ups of this nature whereby one can even tell when was the last time the guy even shaved!! Naturally I'm not gunna even attempt to finish watching this video!!
If you're so offended by the simple act of someone consuming a meal, you obviously have some unresolved trauma. Your issue, not mine. You must be very fun at a party. Lemme know your address, I'd like to pass you an invite
Totally misleading title! As a frequent flyer Qantas is just average in service with a super high priority in safety. So all in all it remains good value for money in Australian terms, this video is totally obsolete!
Waaah typical comment from someone being the only demographic that always plays the race (racist) card. The triggered man babies are out in full force.
Sounded interesting but seem to be more about people an money rather than the Airline itself or the brand we new. I lived in Australia too 30 years ago
Yep they have just been Fined $A200,000,000 for selling tickets they knew they would not honour. But off course that fine will be passed on to customers due to "Unforseen circumstances and the economy". 💩
No there isn't. Because pride cost money, and QF isn't a national government flag carrier. Hasn't been for decades, but the Aussie public still treat them as such.
Couldn’t agree with you more Ryan. Spot on commentary.. From sacking of experienced employees during Covid, the misuse of job keeper payments to apparently keep the airline afloat during that time & now hired labour at less cost, things haven’t improved with Qantas. Aircraft mothballed & problems bringing things back online with travel increasing again continued the decline. Cancelled, delayed flights are still part of Qantas operations, what a fall.. It angers me it was all about keeping Qantas profitable & those great experienced cabin crew, ground staff meant nothing. Now look at the staffing & morale, let alone the contempt we now feel towards them with a huge payout to Alan Joyce. Your video was so well researched & accurate, well done.. Looking forward to your next travels..
Perhaps its karma... My flight tomorrow morning with QANTAS MEL-SIN got cancelled, and I got put on Jetstar. 🤣
@@ryansofly One of my most delayed flights with my travels has been Jetstar’s Melb Singapore flight. I travel with Scoot to Singapore now. 9 hr delays on Ho Chi Minh flight with Jetstar, I’d had enough. Good luck, have a great Christmas mate.
I believe it was outsourcing in so many areas of QANTAS operations where it lost it's brand identity and also it's high standards. Once you outsource, you no longer have direct control of anything. These large companies like Swissport, Danata and the like do things their way for all the different airlines that use them, so everything then becomes the same. Cost cutting like you mentioned, such as getting rid of the hot towels and reduction of catering standards, has been noticed by all passengers. I remember the days in economy some 40 years ago, when pre-flight drinks were offered, meal trays were much larger with premium meals (even between Sydney and Auckland), hot towels and the list goes on. Nice comfy seats with proper padding. Not like those horrible slimline seats we have in economy these days that are less comfortable than our suburban buses. We've all seen the deterioration of standards over the decades and quite frankly everyone has had enough.
Decline is a global trend. But QF's decline is extremely severe and harsh.
Great insight Ryan, my dealings with QF are so long ago, so I didn't know any different, but on reflection, I didn't feel like a passenger, but rather as an annoyance as a 20yr old. But I soon realised working in SYD at the Menzies Hotel, we had SAA, CPAir & BA crew staying...they were just as crude, brash like everyone. Since then, everytime I travel, i treat everyone with dignity. x
Well that's a great story and a timely reminder how we treat service staff say more about us than anything else. Wow... CP Air, that was pre-Canadian! Definitely retro!
@@ryansofly It sure was Ryan, and I still keep in touch with an ex- CP air steward on FB. They were great times before the Aids pandemic. But I sure had a good time on Oxford Street back in the 80's. Alas it no longer has the zing x
@@richardcaldwell9160 funny you should mention Oxford. That was what started it all for me. Before that I had no concept of a "gay street" until I visited Sydney.
A very insightful dissection of the residual issues Qantas has procured over the many years of service. Pre Covid my wife and I were loyal FF products, meaning we used our purchase power to generate FF points. We regularly flew domestically and managed to upgrade 100% of the time. Post Covid we've arrived to a point where we seek other carriers, simply because Qantas doesn't offer value for the premium service it offers. Thank you for this excellent review.
Thanks for watching. Like you guys, I too am a FF points junkie. My life revolves around points and my purchases are planned accordingly. I no longer see the reason to fly QF on international flights because it does not make financial sense. They sooooooo expensive with nothing to show for it. Even in domestic runs, I will never ever pay to fly them. I'd rather pay for JQ or VA. QF flights for me are PURELY redemption only. As for international, my QF points go into redeeming flights with their partners. I'm heading to Hokkaido in November. QF on the clapped out A330, or China Airlines on an ultra modern A350 with the full works, better service, better food... Choice was a no brainer.
If I want a premium service don't fly QF!!!
It is fascinating to note that there is something related to being Irish and a disdain for people, pax and staff. Willie Walsh oversaw the decline of BA and now at IAG has a group of very undistinguished airlines. O'Leary has in Ryanair the most abusive attitude towards Pax. And Joyce has left a hollow brand at Quaintass. Interesting and sad because once you damage your brand it costs a whole lot more to build it back or you inevitability enter terminal decline because there are always competitors who are ready to eat your lunch.
QF has struck gold with the HOME campaign because that keeps people flying them, and yet they don't have to provide much else (they have no incentive to).
Congratulations on an excellent presentation regarding Qantas. Seriously, this video should be screened on the ABC and or SBS. So many Australians (like myself) haven’t viewed the Qantas picture as a whole and why this great airline has been gutted.
As an example (and I hope Qantas read this), I’m travelling to Japan in 2024 and have booked and paid for the tickets with another airline. Once it would only have been Qantas, withno other consideration. Now, no way would I travel with them for a range of reasons.
To see the “choir” period saddens me as in those days, to board a Qantas jet anywhere in the world was to arrive home…
Your words are too kind. Yes, I thought the children's choir would hit the nail on how far they've fallen. Sometimes we don't realise how much lower their standards have become until we take a wider approach towards the entire picture. Thanks again for watching...
For 20+ years, Qantas has restructured itself so it has paid no tax on profit, and it's unlikely to pay any tax on profit for at least another 10 years, if ever. The final straw for the public was the huge amount of taxpayer's funding to ensure Qantas didn't go bankrupt during the pandemic, which was trousered by the board, while illegally sacking thousands. When asked on national TV whether Qantas would repay the funding, Joyce straight-faced said "The best way Qantas can repay the public is by being profitable and paying tax." It really was a let-them-eat-cake moment.
You got that right. ScoMo's mistake was not making this bail out a loan. So now QANTAS can ride off into the sunset laughing to the bank.
I migrated from Germany to Australia in 1978 and had since then dozens of flights between Europe and Australia mainly with SQ and QF. I did notice a huge decline in quality
on flights QF1 and QF2 in Eco. No hot towels, no wine glasses, they seemed to have cut down on alcoholic beverages like GT's. Then the vending machine type small "meals"
and the bamboo cutlery which I absolutely hate. I am planning to visit Germany once more next year and have a reasonable amount of Frequent Flyer points and I must say I
absolutely love flying on the A380. I hope things improve by next September or I have to fly premium eco.
You can still do SQ the entire way on the A380 from SYD. QF's whalejets are a little worn around the edges.
Great story! It's shame when you receive a larger meal on Emirates economy compared to QF business. To me, that says a lot!
Indeed.... The economy meals on QF are just embarrassing. When I read the PR spin in 2016, I cringed.
Intesting video and I do agree that qantas is in decline.
I hope their marketing people don't see this and you get banned like Josh Cahill with Qatar Airways.
I'm not famous enough to be banned. Hahaha...
your video came from a recommendation on my sidebar, for once the algorithm got it right and was a well balanced and researched video. you just gained another subscriber mate. keep up the great work and have a wonderful new year
Thanks mate for being civil. Hahahaha.... Some of the responses here have been less than ideal. But that's QF for you, 2 very distinct camps of yay or nay with nothing in between. Happy new year to you too!
Merry Christmas and a happy new year, Ryan. Intriguing
Happy holidays! Cheers....
I agree with most parts Ryan, but I’ve flown Qantas many times this year is both business and economy, and I haven’t had one bad flight. I know it’s luck for some of it but it has definitely improved since Covid, hopefully only up from here.
On my last business class flight, I did notice they've increased their meal options and have reinstated a starter on the transcontinental domestic. Just wished they'd invest some of that profits back into staff and product investment. But seeing how now all their staff hires are no longer by them, there's no incentive to pay contractors more money.
100% mate, regardless great video as always
Every time i have flown with Qantas it has been a bad experience. the cabin crew have been so unprofessional .
There in lies the issue when the only thing holding the airline up is the cabin crew. And when that cracks, there is little left experience wise. Thanks for popping by, mate!
no wonder service is at best variable on flights when cabin crew are paid so little. I googled and the average salary was $49000 a year or $23 an hour. I know they are not the only airline to underpay staff but they only fill the positions because it's considered a great job. Paying staff would be one of the most key expenses but considering turn arounds, lack of breaks, responsibility if something were to go wrong in the sky and dealing with unruly bogans it's just a pathetic pay rate for an Australian company. I know a LOT of airlines underpay, the majority, and there are perks to make up for it but people have bills to pay! mY Qantas BC review is coming mid-Jan. It was on an A330 domestic to Sydney. The state of the cabin was poor but it was an international config which was nice. anyways thanks for a great year of vids Ryan! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Yeah ever since COVID z they've used that excuse to cut and have never reinstated many of those items I mentioned. Sad really.
Many international airlines offer way better service, and run on time with fewer cancelled flights, unlike Qantas. Plus Qantas' fares are quite often more expensive.
Totally agree it's declining. New CEO Mrs Hudson is no better than Joyce, as you imply at the end when you call her (part of) 'the old guard'.
What really annoys is "travel journalists" who receive free business class trips from Qantas (and competitors) and write "reviews" that with the exception of the occasional negative occupying 1 line of 200, hugely praise an airline like Qantas. They just want another freebie!
Probably your best video because prospective travellers need to know how far this airline has gone downhill, and how relatively easy it is on many routes to find a keenly priced international alternative. Like you, I don't believe it'll recover.
Perhaps its karma. QF cancelled my MEL SIN flight on Sunday and put me on Jetstar. 🤣🤣🤣
@@ryansofly It won't give you one, but you ought be due to a part refund as JQ is even lower class than QF.
How can so many international airlines NOT based in Oz run timely services with cancellations being extremely rare, yet Qantas, with most of its maintenance facilities here (bar Los Angeles) constantly runs late and often has cancellations, especially with its A330-200s/300s and B787-900s, and sometimes even its large A380-800s? Amazing.
@@edmundcarew7235 their international fleet is very small and don't have a lot of buffer when they go down. That's why.
I have followed your odyssey since the get go. Ryan and have enjoyed every minute of it. I am certainly looking forward to your future adventures. Well done.
Awesome, thank you!
This needs a continuation. How the Emirates alliance was great when QF flew to DXB. But has become effectively moot since QF pulled out. And we’re stuck with $1200 fees on EK reward fares to DXB. Also the hostility with Qatar, making oneworld largely useless to Australians, compared to Star Alliance, and leading to Qatar’s subsequent counter-attack alliance with Virgin Australia. Also no champagne was offered to me on Qf38 business class three weeks ago (although the Duval Leroy or Jacquart champagne was always horse pi$$).
QF classic reward seats on international flights are almost non existent if you don't have status. Which irks me because I'm silver and I stand no chance of scoring an international redemption. And I've got heaps of points.
It’s not much better for gold ff tbh. Can’t get anything back from DXB to MEL in January. Gonna have to pay cash to fly home one-way in Qatar economy from Zagreb lol@@ryansofly
@@ryansoflythat would be the benefit and point of status wouldn’t it to reward loyalty.
@@dasa3496 don't disagree there. But when you have Gold tiered members having difficulty redeeming flights, something's not right.
@@ryansoflyfair point.
Employees make or break any company, specially in tourism and transportation, Treat your staff as disposable serfs and see the quality of your products in free fall as your customers desert you.
As far as I am concerned timed to re-nationalise QANTAS!
Indeed, and that's why the brand is hollowing out while still profitable.
Another great video Ryan. I enjoyed listening to your perspective. As a loyal QF customer I can only sadly agree. The staff on the ground and in the air work so hard but the C suite run the place and they have much to answer for
Unfortunately they aren't held to account enough. Even when things got so bad recently, then the senate hearings.... Then NOTHING. All that showy drama with Bridget McKenzie power tripping away with her questions, nothing came out of it but an entertaining spectacle.
Great video Ryan, couldn't agree more with everything you brought up.
Thanks for watching mate! Cheers...
Excellent & thoroughly thought-out analysis Ryan... what's your background to make you capable of this analysis? Fantastic!!!
Alas the way we treat staff in Australia is very American nowadays. I am NOT hopeful for Qantas either
Good question! My background is/was in marketing and branding... Which seems like a lifetime ago. I've left the corporate field more than 10 years ago and have not touched my business shirts since. Haha...
Qantas has gone from “I still call Australia home” to “I still hold Australia home” given the long queuing on the phone
They've indeed taken a huge tumble.
Should read, "We have been screwed by an Irish Gnome !".
Qantas should try the JAL experience and raise the standards. Japan Airlines really embarrass Qantas.. Jetstar (cattleclass) is a part of Qantas.
See at least with Jetstar you get what you're paying for. QANTAS sells itself as a premium service and yet their economy class experience long haul is actually no different to Jetstar on the 787 (once all the frills are thrown in). Which is pretty telling.
QANTAS cancelled my SIN MEL flight on Sunday and put me on Jetstar. The latter was ironically a better flight ( better service because of the Asian crew, and more modern 787 versus the A330).
Agree 100%.
JAL in my experience is sooooo much better than Qantas!
@@ericoppel5698 mate, I'm fresh off Vietnam Airlines LHR SGN MEL. Typing this in the Skybus on the way to town. Their economy class is really what QF premium economy is like. I'm just very impressed.
@@ryansofly I think Deathstar sucks as much as their main brand. Don't they expect you to board really early? Yet when they are crazy late, or the flight is cancelled altogether, they don't give a flying fark about the customer!
@@ryansofly Sounds good.
RIP Qantas!
Interesting video and agree 💯!!
Qantas is subpar in its products in comparison to other full service airlines yet they put a spin to everything they do - in the meal example it's clearly cost cutting but they spin it saying it's for the environment and also based of passenger feedback. 🤷🏻♂️
Yep, I read the PR spin and cringed.
Excellent video! I always enjoy your style of presentation. I guess Qantas is running out of ways to appeal to Aussies with the advent of more competition and the numerous scandals. Crazy that they've also tightened rules around filming on board. This will definitely be a factor that I consider when I book my next flight to review.
I have not tested that no filming theory yet because this ban came about AFTER these videos were done. But they did say they don't have a problem with you filming yourself and out of the window.
You are so right on all levels. I cant believe the number of planes still in old livery
As soon as A Joyce was appointed QF CEO i said the writing as on the wall. And most/ all crew agreed
Absolutely shocking they pay such different rates
They also have a large NZ based crew that fly the likes of the NY run. All on local rates and conditions
Yes there was a lot of disappointment with QF appointing jet connect to do the NY runs. It's the same with JQ doing their 787s with Asian based crew. They work Asia-OZ-HNL return getting paid as little as $2 an hour.
Are you sure the rates are that low $2 hour.
I avoid JQ at all cost but do recall on the Bangkok Mel flight we took a while back crew was all Thai
@@simonsays1234 the Thai and Indonesian crew work on that rate when converted into AUD from THB and IDR respectively. The Singaporean crew's hourly rates are closer to their Aussie counterparts.
Qantas used to fly international into and out of the capital of South Australia, Adelaide. The ceased these flight many years ago. Shame on them. If a South Australian wishes to fly QF overseas or V /V, they need to purchase a domestic ticket an fly to MEL or SYD for that 'privilege'. At their own extra cost of course. Adelaide is a city of 1.5 million people. Treat them as equals to all other Australian residents.
I agree with Ryan's comments. Similar happened with Air New Zealand. After the Ansett Australia fiasco, then Air New Zealand CEO Rob Fyfe took near bankrupt airline and rebuilt it with the help of the Unions who previously had a tense relationship with the previous senior management. Rob Fyfe was replaced by a new CEO Christopher Luxon (now NZ's Prime Minister) who did an Allan Joyce number by undoing Rob's good work by stripping the little remaining fat to bone with contracted engineering, cabin crew, basic in-flight and lounge catering, reducing seat pitch to get more 'bums on seats' in economy class, etc to make bigger profits reaching a point creating public and premium customers backlash. The current CEO Greg Foran a former CEO of Walmart USA, had the first 2 years of his contract to deal with the fall out of the global health pandemic, is trying to undo some of Luxon's harsh cost cutting to restore public and premium customer confidence in the airline and the brand. He has a battle, as the public and premium customers are not patient people but are prepared to give him time but for how long is anybody's guess.
Unfortunately very few legacy airlines can survive in today's climate unless you have the brand appeal like SQ, or the reach and mass of EK.
@@ryansofly - Yep I agree. A lot of Qantas home support has gone to REX, Virgin Australia and lessor extent to Bonza. Vanssea is going to need to do a lot of hard work to win them back but I don't think she is the right person. Qantas needs to get a new CEO and possibility a new board with fresh ideas to bring back the airline's former customers.
Would be more interested in what potential solutions could be to either restore or at least stabilise the brand
Suppose with the issues I brought up, it kinda makes it an extremely complicated multi pronged approach on how to solve this conundrum QF finds itself it... Which was mainly by its own doing.
I really hope you do a video on that one day. as I am sure you will have it well researched and presented.
Your video reminded me of the importance of focusing on the kinship economy - the value of customer connection with the brand. It's easy to give it lip service (i.e. the slick marketing campaigns) but difficult to deliver those special moments by engaged staff who believe in the brand and its identity. I have seen this done extremely well in hospitality but it would take an extremely brave board/company leadership to shift the company focus to staff engagement, customer service, service recovery, loyalty recognition and on time service as a priority... (unless the Gov buys 51% of the voting shares LOL)
Keep up the great work and looking forward to your next review!
@@ISB021 I brought up SQ because I used to work for that airline. And I know the trouble they go through in order to protect their brand integrity. They almost go through it with a fine tooth comb to remove any kinks to a level that is almost obsessive. But that's why they're the best in the industry. And locals endear to that brand so much so there are some who swear by them only, and never fly anyone else. SQ fares are notoriously expensive from SIN and locals take pride in telling people they are flying SQ for their holidays. Even when I was a child, if I did well in my exams, we flew SQ. If not, it was QF/PA/CI/TG etc.
Extremely well researched and detailed......... that is truly sheet pay across all four categories. What about Jetstar, would like to hear your thoughts on it and its history under the former CEO.
I did find out quite a fair bit about JQ 's pay structure for the FAs during my research. We have Asian crew from BKK HKT and DPS getting paid AUD 2.00 per hour working on flight patterns Asia-OZ-HNL and back. It's no wonder they can't even afford to eat during their layovers.
@@ryansofly that is actually quite disgusting
As an add on, SIA on my last J flight from NRT to SIN was very basic in service and food/ beverage service. The girls didn’t seem to have get up and go from old. Worst, no Singapore Slings on offer.
My parents recently did MEL-SIN-BOM return and said the same thing.
SQ JCL service can be hit and miss, because that's where YCL FAs get trained for the next progression of premium service. So if you're unlucky enough to have a flight where a "trainee" is in place, then the experience can be a little off brand.
Good video Ryan . Well put together and informative. Cheers mate. Have a great Christmas. All the best for the new year👍
Happy holidays! Cheers mate...
Great review, and merry Christmas!
Happy holidays!
So disappointing to see this happening and really all staff need to be employed by Qantas rather than outside companies skimming the income of staff. The new CEO is useless and even when you have a negative experience there is no way any complaint is dealt with. And yes I still fly with Qantas only because of rewards and life time status which is so helpful when travelling on other One World airlines like AA. But while they continue to serve a $6 retail bottle of Spanish sparkling wine in the LA business lounge what hope have we got. And not to mention trying to use FF points for Business Class classic rewards
Thanks for the report and look forward to hearing your opinion on what airline is the best for US travel.
QANTAS can no longer employ from within because of unions, making salaries too expensive. But they've gone to the other extreme such that I don't think it's fair to new hires. How can they afford to have a life especially in Sydney and Melbourne? You're right about the FF program, and that's the only way I'll ever fly with QF because I won't ever pay money to get on their planes.
Objective and detailed video Ryan. However airlines can be perceived differently overseas. I mean here in Europe, Qantas has a good reputation. Likewise with BA outside the UK or Lufthansa outside Germany. One drawback for Qantas is its location (as with SAA) which means that opportunities to capitalise on sixth-freedom traffic is very limited.
QANTAS doesn't have a good reputation in Asia. I was not kidding about the racist reputation, especially in the 70s till the late 90s, this rhetoric would persist. We would tease our friends who were flying QF out of Singapore for their holidays.
@@ryansofly Yes I heard you talking about that in the video. I can quite understand. Here in the UK gets positive feedback for deploying its A380s to SYD (BA won't do likewise despite many customer requests) and of course in mainland Europe those non-stops from Perth and plans for Project Sunrise get the attention. And wiser and older travellers respect Qantas for its safety record.
It’s such a shame. Qantas is one of the airline brands we used to envy.
I have been apologising for them for far too long. I just can't believe why would anyone want to pay money to fly them especially on international flights.
Well narrated sir. I take my cap off.
Thanks for watching!
I hate it when the national carrier goes downhill, especially due to bad management! I love their beautiful livery and more so that they’re Australian!
It is time we stop treating QANTAS like a national carrier, because they haven't been since 1992. But they still cry out for protection as if it was owed to them.
I have stopped flying Qantas 5 years ago.
Think a lot of respondents to this video share the same sentiments.
Your flight to Singapore was cancelled and they put you on Jetstar. So lucky the Jetstar flight operated that day. I was victim of having my Jetstar flight to Singapore cancelled at 9pm the night before. No such flight change for me, just hit the link for your refund! Jetstar knew they had aircraft unavailable and yet waited till last minute to advise passengers.
Qantas economy meal service is shocking. Not served on a tray and you have to put the bread roll on the tray table (yuck) or in your lap while you balance and juggle everything. I am surprised they haven't removed the tray table as well.
They became very Sydney centric as well with somewhat less a number of direct or multiple flights from Melbourne per day. (Maybe just my imagination.) Also their international network seems to have reduced in appeal or destinations which forces passengers to try other airlines and discover a better alternative.
They may have made profits over the years but shareholder returns were pretty low from 2008 to 2015, IE zero!
One can only hope for better days.
Keep on flying Ryan ✈✈✈
Sadly not all international routes from Australian airports can make money. So being profit centric means Sydney/Melbourne centric. I'm of the opinion that international flights from Melbourne are holding up well. Just that their A330s are having reliability issues lately causing issues with some internationaldepartures
Very interesting video Ryan.
Can I ask your advice? I’m arriving into SYD on BA so arriving early morning, but need to fly to BNE. Which airline would you recommend for the SYD-BNE sector?
If you're flying in economy, there's really not much of a difference between airlines. VA and JQ are buy on board LCC model, with QF you'd get a packet of crackers. It all comes down to how much you're willing to pay.
Ryan the decline of Qantas is solely due to the devastatingly bad leadership hence the new CEO will have to double down on improved service and catering to see any change. The most likely aspect is a further decline resulting in a takeover by another international airline who see the value in the Qantas organisation as a fit to their portfolio of air operations.
Well, when profit rules over everything else.... We end up in this sad sad position.
Qantas is too far gone to save, in my view.
@@williamcrossan9333 as long as the airline is profitable, it will continue to operate.
Ryan and others here praise Asian airlines for being able to deliver a better product. Let me be the first to pop that bubble - it is done on the backs of the low slave wages of Asian air crew, who have no choice but to accept if they wish to work in the air, or work at all. But that doesn't make airfares significantly cheaper on Vietnam or SQ. Unions are an important part of the equation that brings fair profit sharing to both labor and management. Singapore government who owns SQ also effectively controls the labor unions so there will never be any SQ strikes. I'm sure similar things are instituted in VN. And the airlines from the Middle East have access to virtually free oil. All this is good for the happy flyer but take a step back and you can see the oppression behind it.
You missed the entire Jetstar story, which is another part of the cost-reduction story. And its services are appallingly bad which, because it is still recognised as being "Qantas light" also has a negative impact on the Qantas brand.
I don't think comparing with SQ is particularly helpful because SQ has now adopted an (extreme) premium pricing model, especially in Business and First to the point that many Companies who allow their managers to fly Business have excluded SQ or required the managers to pay the excess above their prefrred contracted carrier fares.
Oh trust me, in my research for this video I found out about how little the JQ long haul crew from Asian bases of Phuket, Bangkok and Bali are paid... AUD 2.00 an hour. And these poor crews operate Asia - OZ - HNL vv on the 787s. I always knew how little they're paid that's why whenever I fly JQ long haul, I always buy them Tim Tams. But dang, now I found out how little they're paid... My heart goes out to them. I stumbled upon an article about a Bangkok based crew how he could not afford to eat during his layovers in OZ. Only had the instant cup noodles he brought along from his base in Bangkok.
I have never had a problem with Qantas only that they don’t have international flight out of adelaide so I have to take a Qantas flight to Sydney or Melbourne to fly international.
Until they can bring themselves to do a daily flight to Singapore to meet up with QF 1/2, Adelaide will always be a dark spot.
Qantas has a culture of complacency. Within Australia they have a handy 'closed shop' little duopoly going with Qantas/Jetstar and Virgin. So they know that they can get away with the high prices, crap service on their customer communication links and lacksidaisical attitude to flight cancellations or changed times with little notice. They need a clean sweep of the Board, which is not fit for purpose, and a CEO who actually gives a damn about the customers who keep the airline flying and less about the cash that can be screwed out of them! The whole shebang comes down to lack of real competition, and corporate skullduggery like "Slot Hoarding" etc. I would never fly with Qantas on an overseas flight now unless there was no alternative. There are too many great airlines flying international routes to be bothered with a ramshackle carrier like Qantas!
QANTAS has been the way it is for many decades. They are a commercial entity but still treated like a government owned organisation all in the name of nationalist sentiments. Not many will care to admit they're shit, but hey... That's what makes this story worth telling.
@@ryansofly right! I would like to see some government action to encourage the smaller players to step up, and the ACCC to penalise the major airlines for uncompetitive activity. There needs to be legislation also, to penalise airlines for unjustified cancellations and time changes. At the moment, they can get away with murder and they know it!
@@ralphsmith1170 sadly not every government is willing to do what you ask for (votes). Our protective practices are VERY similar to Canada and Air Canada. There is this surface veneer of protecting local jobs but the bigger picture, we see little competition leading to higher air fares. On the flip side, Singapore has told Singapore Airlines (SQ) if you don't swim, then sink, I know so because I used to work for SQ and man we had to fight to survive. SQ does not even get air traffic priority for their flights returning to Changi, they join the line to land just like everyone else.... Consequently, Changi Airport is an open market almost to the level of being a brothel. Every airline is allowed access. But look at how successfully changi and SQ are today. QANTAS has free access to Changi to do as they wish, but SQ isn't allowed vice versa privileges from Australia. Because QF knows they're shit and can never compete against international airlines flying to Australia. So our fundamental mindset has to change in Australia, open market does not mean loss of local jobs, that's just political fear mongering. Instead, when an air hub flourishes, it creates MORE jobs. That's my 2 cents.
@@ryansofly Absolutely! My fave airline is Singaore Airlines, and the reason for that is that they DO try harder and DO endeavour to supply a quality product for their customers. They acknowledge the importance of customer service and satisfaction, because they aren't feather-bedded! Unfortunately, Qantas, Jetstar and even Virgin get 'protected species' treatment at Oz airports. It's a situagtion that needs to change. But, as you say. there is the political element to take into account, as well as the 'lobbying' card as well!
I agree that I like your style and agree plus loss of Holden and Chrysler as a local car manufacturer.
Yes I am very old school Qantas was the Australian International Airline. TAA and Ansett was domestic high quality service. I appreciate your comment of VARIG , SABENA ,SWISSAIR Olympic they are all gone and the low cost carriers such as Bonza and Jetstar is now a bus with wings. Ansett should be there today on the go on in 2023 but it was lost 2002. Virgin Blue and later Virgin Australia I wished they failed hate the name and product and say no more. Quality service is important as experienced from 1960's fades out late 1990's.
Ansett 727.
Sadly our population is very small and there's not a lot of competition. That's why QF can get away with being what they are.
Yes, my first flight when I was in my early teens was with TAA, as you say there were two domestic airlines, TAA and Ansett ANA. QANTAS was the international flag carrier and considered one of the best in the World. My last flight with them was in the 1990’s Honolulu to Sydney (business class) - it was great, outstanding service and food. I no longer live in Australia so have no idea how much they’ve changed.
@@paullewis2413 Ohh I like the Ansett-ANA word so old as name changed to Ansett Airlines of Australia November 1968 with new orange black cheat line colours and the orange delta logo with type face late 1960's style. TAA is now Qantas. Loved TAA colours gold with navy blue T on 727 and DC-9 T-Jet tails! Non-stop flights were labeled as T-Jet Rocket flights on paper time tables. It looked great. Great service as well all gone now.
Ansett 727.
@@paullewis2413 well, mate. Now you know how far they've fallen. Let's just say I was quite the QF fan boy until I couldn't be one anymore.
Well said. Very accurate!!
While it sounds like a good profit.. if you consider the amount of aircraft Qantas needs to replace over the next 5yrs, it actually needs to be higher over the next 5yrs.
As a public company (not govt owned) you actually need to make money to improve the product.
And there are a lot of 350s, 789s, and 321LR, 321XLR and 220s on order
I believe QF had a lost opportunity with the 777s. They were surprisingly part of the initial team with a host of other major airlines in Boeing's initial phases. Then their wide body fleet went quiet for a while, 744 retired, 787 delivered, A330 chugging along... That's my pet peeve, their international offerings are embarrassing. The premium they charge just does not justify the product delivered.
It is not just Qantas that is in decline. Everything in Australia is in decline, especially the government.
Well that is a very sad look at the situation. Sadly, I tend to agree with you.
@@ryansofly Yes, it is pretty sad to watch. And it is not just Australia. The whole Western world is in decline as democracies devolve into plutocracies.
@@Andre_XX exactly.
The only demographic that disagrees or doesn’t care is the one making life uncomfortable for every other demographic.
@@rachkate76Yes , woke lazy society & a non functioning government
I have stopped flying with QANTAS due to this
Think a lot of us have. My QF points are used to redeem other airlines when I fly international. No way am I going to waste money on QF flying overseas.
Brilliant
I couldn’t agree more, although I’m not sure why you feel an anti Trump comment adds value. I used to fly them every year LA to Sydney 747-400, A380 every year for 15 16 17 years (forgot the count) and loved them and then after the Covid crap firing all the employees making them take a jab to work screwing their customers, over charging, screwing over miles members, screwing the employees laying them all off. Alan Joyce was the worst thing to happen to that airline. I’ll never fly them again sad. … They actually lost me emotionally when they shipped heavy maintenance to Singapore and staples were used for emergency exit lighting. The only reason I stuck with them was because they had Bundy on board… oh and now a Hanson comment…. Why can’t you all stick to the topic, injecting your political beliefs pisses off half your audience…. unsubbing.
Thanks for popping by!
Unfortunately the flight are scheduled that one has to fly from point to point on Quantas to get to a better airline or departure date out of the country.
I travelled this year to usa and comparing the delta, american airlines, canada air and even iceland air to qantas, i still felt qantas was better. But i think it wasnt fair that the government helped them up in covid and then qantas announced all the profit they now make- maybe some should go back to the government.
Suppose when you're looking at the now, and especially comparing it to US airlines, then yes QF is paradise. The mistake ScoMo did was offering that bail out money as is, and not as a loan.
It’s the opposite when you fly Qantas then JAL. Difference was night and day.
@@paulorocky yesterday, QF cancelled my MEL SIN flight and we got put on Jetstar instead. Frankly, there is very little difference in economy class between them 2 so it's very telling how far QF has fallen.
Fabulous video!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching!
Qantas sucks i avoid at all costs.. Vietnam Airlines Singapore etc etc provide better experience and usually better or same prices..i still love seeing the qantas a380 is a beautiful sight..but they have a lot of improving too do
I think a lot of respondents to this video feel the same.
Great video Ryan.
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching!
We only fly QF if we have to. That's it.
It’s interesting when you mentioned that Qantas had a racist reputation in Asia. A lot of other Australian companies that operated in Asia were well respected.
Its just the way a typical Singaporean views Australia. Of course, I don't find that to be true. But the reaction of Singaporeans to QANTAS is one of contempt and a look of pity towards a QF passenger. 😂
@@ryansoflypossibly an airline like Virgin Australia might receive a warmer reception in Singapore with its emphasis on non white cabin crew and socially progressive values.
@@richgj88 VA with their socially progressive vibe yes. As for non white FAs, think both airlines are equal in that respect. I had indigenous friends who went on to become QF FAs under a special program designed for the indigenous community. This was back in the day before recruitment was outsourced to labour hire and unions were strong.
@@ryansoflyQantas definitely has a lot of issues to overcome. My uncle used to work for Qantas for over 25 years up until the COVID-19 and he was very critical of Qantas management.
Interesting comment regarding the racist reputation 7:40 my older Singapore friend said the same and REFUSED to fly Qantas for decades. He gave it a go last year and did not say the same haha
QANTAS does have that reputation with Singaporeans indeed. I wasn't kidding.
@@ryansofly up to 17:50 now. I remember my first trip to Australia in 2012, HKG-SYD-CNS-BNE-HKG. All flights (including the domestic ones) had meals like this, on a tray. Now we're celebrating free wine after 12pm lol
@@JaydenWong yep, it's really sad how far they've fallen. And yet continue to spin this we're the best premium carrier ever...
The only time in my life when I felt racially victimised was at Singapore airport, twice.
@@tw25rw as far as I'm concerned, Singapore is some of the world's most racist countries glossed over by constant propaganda of racial harmony. My immediate family is very guilty of such behaviours which would so not fly in Australia. So no, I'm not surprised by your comment.
Too woke for my liking! SQ more reliable and better in service in every manner! And I say this as an Australian!
Flying Qantas for me, no way Jose!!
I use QF points to fly with other airlines... Haha. QF, especially on international flights are very lacking.
Interesting (I learned a lot about labour conditions at Qantas), but a mixed bag. Standards have definitely fallen in terms of catering and the like (compare it to Emirates or Taiwan's China Airlines and the difference is stark). Working conditions and staff morale aren't great. These things matter. The Qantas Club in Townsville using a slightly different font does not.
I think the comparisons to SQ also touch on cultural differences. SQ crews are elegant and polished. You notice them when you walk past them in an airport. While these are highly sought after jobs, there's also something a little icky about it all to me. Strict rules about age, ethnicity and body shape. QF crew look like anyone in Sydney or Melbourne. Different ages, body shapes, ethnicities and the like. To me (but probably not to others), the eager to please Singapore Girl image feels a little dated (not to mention mildly sexist and even possibly racist) in 2024.
Cheers, mate! Thanks for popping by! I used to work for SQ, and I've seen first hand the trouble they go through to protect the brand. They actually protect it with a litany of military like precision methods which the entire organisation adheres to. And this is translated into how the company is presented to the world. My professional background is also in branding and marketing. And that was applied in my comparison between these 2 airlines. In branding circles, SQ is studied by many and their methods are definitely divisive. But everyone's goal is the same, to increase the worth of their brand equity to the level of that airline's.
QANTAS is in a VERY unique position with their strong emotional connection with Aussies. They've somehow failed to hold on to that capitalisation.
As you've also mentioned China Airlines, you might wish to check out this video linked below.
ua-cam.com/video/SayprV7aVMI/v-deo.htmlsi=-yJTCXOUU64dVEH-
You forgot or purposely omitted that QANTAS has always been, and continues to be, the safest airline in the world.
Otherwise what you have said is very true.
I"m an Australian and have travelled the world extensively. I have not used QANTAS for my last 20 international flights.
QANTAS flights are too expensive, and the onboard service very poor, ( in my opinion).
Good riddence to Allan Joyce!
.
QF being the safest airline in the world is irrelevant, because heaps of other airlines around the world flying into OZ are also safe. And that's the issue, QF preys on this and that emotional connection of being AUSTRALIAN, and with the HOME ad campaign .. hooks people into coming back with high fares offering very little in return.
So safe....
BKK over run
SIN A380 engine
PER uncommaded control issues
@@Thepastwasexciting2 of them were aircraft manufacturing issues. BKK overrun was pilot error
Try getting a meal on a usa aurline
Yes USA is shocking to our system... No means in first class to for some airlines
Ryan I do like your reviews and your content in general however in your comparison of Qantas versus Singapore airlines I do find your judgements to be somewhat subjective. The comparison between the two is unrealistic as the cultural nuances and industrial approaches within each organisation and bound by their own countries approach to industrial regulation doesn’t allow a fair comparison. Singapore is a very small island and when you talk about marketing how many clubs do Singapore airlines manage in Singapore as opposed to Qantas in Australia. Australia is a very large continent with a vast number of clubs compared to SIN. Also when you talk about brand control Singapore Airlines has tight control over their workforce and workforce expectations which are also cultural nuances. The Singapore girl marketing by Singapore Airlines is smart and iconic but the expectations on female staff could be considered quite sexist and bordering upon discriminatory. You won’t get a large size Singapore Girl now would you. The lifespan of a Singapore airlines flight attendant is also very much shorter than that of most flight attendants for exactly this reason, you being a former FA for Singapore airlines would surely be well aware of this. The aesthetics you talk about in relation to catering, whilst I don’t disagree are evident are also because of cultural ideological differences. I personally think rather than deriding QF just don’t fly them because sometimes your criticism comes off as a little entitled.
Ha... I was looking at it from a branding perspective, nothing more nothing less. Because that was my professional white collar corporate background. I used SQ as an example because that brand is studied in lecture halls the world over how Batey Ads has handled this account, and by extension how the airline themselves handle their brand. Is SQ girl sexist and outdated? Absolutely! I don't disagree there. Would I want to see a QF Girl? Absolutely not. Did not mean to come off as entitled, I apologise. I do want QF to thrive, despite my videos.
Thank you for the clarification much appreciated. Sorry if I’ve misinterpreted aspects of your point of view.
Why must we be practically compelled to view close-up images of people shovelling food into their mouths!! This is bloody gross to say the least!! Nobody really wants to view such close-ups of this nature whereby one can even tell when was the last time the guy even shaved!! Naturally I'm not gunna even attempt to finish watching this video!!
If you're so offended by the simple act of someone consuming a meal, you obviously have some unresolved trauma. Your issue, not mine. You must be very fun at a party. Lemme know your address, I'd like to pass you an invite
Maybe this person doesn’t eat! 😂
@@davewhite4206 he obviously does not breathe either.
Lmfaoooo
Totally misleading title! As a frequent flyer Qantas is just average in service with a super high priority in safety. So all in all it remains good value for money in Australian terms, this video is totally obsolete!
Of course.... You'd just need to convince the last 100+ responses to this video.
Nobody cares about your toxic nationalism and jingoism tied to an airline.
Cringe.
Playing the race card never goes out of style.
Of course not! Never! Why, are you bothered by it?
Nothing bothers me. I have white privilege and my Aerostar to comfort me. @@ryansofly
Waaah typical comment from someone being the only demographic that always plays the race (racist) card.
The triggered man babies are out in full force.
@@dmimcg wrong- you have inbred overrated privilege.
An inferiority complex dressed up as a superiority complex.
Yawn
Yawn....
Sounded interesting but seem to be more about people an money rather than the Airline itself or the brand we new. I lived in Australia too 30 years ago
Qantas will be just fine.
Yep they have just been Fined $A200,000,000 for selling tickets they knew they would not honour. But off course that fine will be passed on to customers due to "Unforseen circumstances and the economy". 💩
Qantas has gone the same way as Australia, they would sell their sole to the highest bidder. All pride has gone.
No there isn't. Because pride cost money, and QF isn't a national government flag carrier. Hasn't been for decades, but the Aussie public still treat them as such.
@godders7964 yeah,I get it haha
.... it would sell its sole to the highest bidder ....
And its Spanish Mackerel, Coral Trout and Yabbies!