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Choosing the right flight can transform a potentially arduous long-haul shift into part of the adventure. In economy on Qantas’ Melbourne to Los Angeles direct route, expect great food, entertainment and service along the way.
The seat and the route
Melbourne International Airport (MEL) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Seat 43D on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.
14 hours 25 minutes.
Lead-in price: currently around AU$1,395.
Is there a loyalty scheme and sustainability program?
Qantas has a rewards program, Qantas Frequent Flyer, through which you can earn points on select flights, credit card spending and partner activities. These can be redeemed for flights, upgrades and products, like gifts at Qantas Shopping. Members can earn status credits from flying and different tiers provide benefits like lounge access. This flight (MEL-LAX) awarded me 4,500 Qantas frequent flyer points.
Qantas is taking steps to reduce the impact of air travel on the planet, with targets to reduce its net Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by 2030.
It aims to reduce emissions by improving efficiency through fleet modernisations, supporting the development of sustainable aviation fuel (meaning lower carbon and non-fossil derived fuels) and investing in carbon products outside the industry, to help achieve 2030 and 2050 net emission targets.
In 2019, Qantas was one of the first airlines in the world to announce its target to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 – capping its net emissions at 2019 levels.
For more information on Qantas’ sustainability goals, read on here.
How was the airport experience?
Outbound, navigating my way through Melbourne International Airport took no time at all. I arrived three hours early for my flight, which is the golden rule, and I got through check-in, bag drop and security with hours to spare.
Once I was through, I strolled around the seemingly never-ending duty-free area, spraying delicious-smelling perfumes and browsing fancy brands before settling in for a coffee and waiting for the flight.
The airport got busier as time passed, with lines for morning coffees, snacks and magazines emerging. Boarding was easy, a polite line led to the plane and there were no troubles or long waits, even for a full flight.
Once I landed at LAX, the TSA line was made extra quick with the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app – an official US Customs and Border Protection app where forms can be filled out digitally, allowing for faster movement in a separate MPC line, which was near empty.
I was out of LAX in a matter of 30 minutes – with all my bags in tow and the adventure ready to begin.
Is there lounge access?
Based on class of travel, Frequent Flyer membership tier, or Qantas Club membership type, Qantas members can enjoy access to a Qantas or partner lounge before the flight.
How was the cabin and seat?
The full cabin didn’t deter from a comfortable flight. It was spacious enough, and there was room for my carry-on bag to be overhead right above me, making for easy access.
Seat 43D is an economy aisle seat. It’s great value for a 14.5-hour flight. The seat was comfortable, I was in front of the bathroom, with no row behind me, so I reclined my seat as far as it would go and had enough leg room. The entertainment on the flight had copious movies, music and television shows.
How were the in-flight dining and drinks?
I was right to board the flight hungry, as the meals and snacks kept coming (inflight dining varies by aircraft, route, cabin and season). The flight departed at 12pm so it started with lunch; braised Angus beef with roast vegetables and potato mash.
The snacks included soy crisps, carrots and dips and a Bulla ice cream. A chicken sandwich followed for dinner, and breakfast was potato frittata with beef sausages, braised beans, sauteed greens and mushrooms. This breakfast was the perfect finale for a busy day taking on Los Angeles.
The drinks throughout were mine to pick, between wines, coffee, tea, water, juice or spirits.
What was the in-flight service like?
The crew were always on hand and not overbearing. You can journey on a Qantas flight knowing that you will be well attended to. The complimentary amenity kit meant I didn’t have to rely on dipping into my luggage – as it was complete with a handy dental kit, eye mask and earplugs.
A final thought
I’ve flown from Melbourne to Los Angeles before, but this was the first time flying direct, which is a game-changer. It’s much less taxing not having to hop-on-hop-off and worry about transfers; it saves hours in layovers. Once you’re on the plane, you can simply sit down and relax and truly enjoy the flight.
Feature image: Shutterstock / Heavenlyflower.
The writer was a guest of Qantas and Visit California.
