Qatar Airways Completes Australia Comeback With Canberra Return

Qatar Airways is making a decisive return to Australia’s capital, restoring the carrier’s full Australian network and inviting luxury travellers to reconnect with the world in refined comfort. From 8 December 2026 the airline will resume flights between Canberra and Doha (via Melbourne), operating four times weekly before ramping up to daily services in March 2027.

This comeback completes Qatar’s reinstatement of services suspended during recent geopolitical turmoil and signals renewed confidence in Australia’s air links. For high-end travellers, the route revival means more choice, superior global connectivity, and the convenience of premium long-haul service from the heart of the nation.

Premium service, familiar aircraft

Qatar Airways will deploy its Boeing 777-300ER on the Canberra-Doha rotation, ensuring a spacious, premium cabin experience favoured by discerning guests. Flight QR989 departs Canberra at 12:30pm, arriving Doha the same evening, while QR988 leaves Doha at 8:25am and lands in Canberra at 8:30am the following day — timings that suit seamless connections and business-friendly schedules.

Why luxury travellers should care

• Seamless connectivity: Restored access to Doha’s Hamad International Airport provides effortless links to Europe, the Middle East, Africa and beyond via Qatar’s award-winning transfer experience.
• Premium cabins and service: Qatar’s business and first-class products remain a strong draw for travellers who prioritise privacy, comfort, and attentive service.
• Competitive choice: Increased frequency across Australia—now six ports including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Canberra—creates healthier competition and more options for premium itineraries.
• Suitability for business and leisure: Convenient departure times and enhanced capacity support corporate travel, education links, and luxury holiday planning from the ACT.

Context and reassurance

The relaunch follows earlier resumptions across Australia after suspensions linked to regional conflict. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s recent easing of its travel advice for Qatar adds an extra layer of reassurance for travellers considering the route’s return.

Book with confidence

If you’re planning elevated travel from Australia’s capital, the restored services offers both convenience and Qatar Airways’ trademark premium experience. For full details and bookings, visit Qatar Airways: https://www.qatarairways.com