Every Flight Leads to Rome: Qantas Boosts Perth Route for 2026 Escape

For the wanderlust souls dreaming of Italy’s Eternal City, here’s news to get you packing your bags. Qantas has just announced a major boost to its Perth-Rome route for 2026, nearly doubling the number of flights and extending the season. If Rome’s iconic history, cobbled streets, and mouthwatering cuisine have been on your travel horizon, now’s the time to make it real.

More Flights, More Freedom

Starting 3 May and running through to 23 October 2026, Qantas is extending its seasonal service by eight weeks. During the peak period from late June to late September, the airline is adding a fourth weekly flight in addition to the existing three, making for more than 40 extra services and close to 10,000 new seats. That means ample choice for travellers craving the magic of Italy and the wider European continent.

A History-Making Journey

Since Qantas first launched the nonstop Perth to Rome service in 2022, it’s been a game-changer. It was the first-ever nonstop flight connecting Australia directly to continental Europe, slashing travel time and making it easier than ever for Europeans to start their Aussie adventure in Perth. Over 70,000 passengers have taken this route, a testament to its popularity and convenience.

Perth: Australia’s Gateway to Europe

Qantas isn’t stopping here. Besides Rome, Perth is also connected nonstop to London and Paris, and by December 2025, travellers will see new direct flights from Perth to Johannesburg and Auckland. This expansion means Perth is shaping up as Australia’s premier international gateway, especially for travellers connecting between Europe and Australia.

Voices from the Top

Cam Wallace, Qantas International CEO, shares the excitement, stating how the airline’s Rome flight is beloved by customers for its perfect timing — leaving Perth in the evening and waking up in Rome. This convenience, paired with high customer satisfaction on Qantas’s international network, means the airline’s long-haul flights from Perth next year will be the biggest ever, connecting major European capitals nonstop.

Western Australia’s Premier, Roger Cook, praises the service as a crucial link for WA, calling it a gateway from Europe and a driver of economic diversification through tourism. The increased flights reflect not only Qantas’s confidence but WA’s growing importance as an international destination.

Tourism Minister Reece Whitby echoes the sentiment, highlighting the boost in visitors and how this route strengthens WA’s ties with Europe, making it easier for Italian visitors and others to explore the stunning offerings of the region.

Flight Schedule Highlights

For those plotting the perfect plan, here’s the pulse of the QF5 Perth – Rome flight schedule next year:

• From 3 May to 26 June 2026: 3 flights per week (Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday)
• From 27 June to 26 September 2026: 4 flights per week (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday)
• From 27 September to 23 October 2026: 3 flights per week (Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday)

This frequency increase is subject to government and regulatory approval, but promises fantastic flexibility for travellers.

Whether you’re a culture seeker, a food lover, or someone chasing that ancient Roman vibe, this nearly doubled Qantas flight capacity between Perth and Rome opens up a world of possibilities with direct, nonstop convenience. Strap in and get ready for new adventures in 2026.