When it comes to premium air travel, the debate between Emirates Airline and Qantas is a regular one among frequent Australian travellers. Both carriers are known for their global reach, quality of service, and loyalty perks — but which one really delivers better value from an Aussie perspective?
Choosing between Emirate flights and Qantas often comes down to what matters most: price, comfort, flight routes, or loyalty programs. With overlapping destinations and long-haul routes, particularly to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, the comparison becomes even more important.
This expert guide dives deep into every aspect — from cabin classes and lounges to booking processes and reward points — so you can make an informed decision based on your travel goals. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or just loyalty-program curious, keep reading to find out which airline comes out on top for Aussie travellers.
Overview of Emirates and Qantas
Both Emirates airline and Qantas have become household names in Australia — one known for its luxury and Middle Eastern charm, the other for being the national flag carrier with deep Aussie roots. While Qantas has long represented Australian aviation pride, Emirates has steadily gained ground thanks to its service quality and extensive international network.
From Sydney to London or Melbourne to Dubai, Emirates airlines flights have carved a strong presence in the Australian market. And with Qantas as a long-time player, the choice between these two airlines isn’t always straightforward. For Aussie travellers, it often comes down to value, service, route options, and those little extras that make a long-haul flight bearable — or even enjoyable.
Route Networks: Where Can You Go?
Qantas primarily focuses on routes to North America, Europe, Asia, and the Pacific, while Emirates airline has an expansive global network thanks to its Dubai hub. Australians flying with Emirates can connect to over 150 destinations worldwide, with seamless connections to Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
Qantas, on the other hand, offers direct flights to major hubs like Los Angeles, London, Singapore, and Tokyo — with codeshare agreements through oneworld partners expanding its reach. But if you’re after a broader choice of destinations without too many layovers, Emirates tends to have the upper hand, especially for trips to Europe.
Fleet & Aircraft Quality
When it comes to aircraft, both airlines impress. Qantas operates a mix of Airbus A380s, Boeing 787s, and the A330s. Emirates is world-famous for its all-A380 and Boeing 777 fleet — offering a consistent, modern experience no matter which class you’re in.
The Emirates airline fleet is younger on average, with better in-flight tech and roomier cabins, especially in Business and First Class. While Qantas has upgraded its Dreamliners and retrofitted older aircraft, Emirates still wins in terms of fleet uniformity and premium finishes. For frequent Aussie travellers used to long hauls, the comfort factor is hard to overlook.
Cabin Classes: Economy, Business & First
In Economy, both airlines are fairly competitive. Qantas offers generous legroom and Aussie-style service, while Emirates impresses with extra-wide seats and top-tier inflight entertainment — especially on its A380s.
Business Class is where Emirates airline really shines. The lie-flat seats, privacy dividers, and access to the emirates lounge before takeoff all add up to a premium experience. Qantas Business Class is solid, particularly on the Dreamliner routes, but Emirates usually edges ahead on luxury.
First Class? Emirates takes it to another level with private suites, showers in the A380, and fine dining. Qantas First is more understated but still excellent. However, for travellers chasing that “wow” factor, Emirates delivers.
In-Flight Experience: Meals, Entertainment & Comfort
Qantas prides itself on its Aussie hospitality — think seasonal menus with local produce and a strong wine list. Emirates counters with regionally inspired meals, onboard bar areas in Business/First, and meals designed by international chefs.
Entertainment-wise, Emirates’ ICE system has won numerous awards and offers thousands of hours of movies, shows, and music. Qantas entertainment is no slouch, but the sheer volume and variety on emirate airline flights make it a standout for long-haul boredom.
Both airlines offer free meals, entertainment, and blankets in Economy, but Emirates tends to go just a little bit further — with thoughtful extras like menu cards and hot towels, even in Economy.
Ground Experience: Emirates Lounge vs Qantas Lounge
Frequent flyers know the emirates lounge is more than just a waiting room. In Sydney and Melbourne, it’s a full-service experience — with gourmet buffets, quiet zones, showers, and barista coffee. Qantas Lounges, especially the International First Lounge in Sydney, are also excellent, with Neil Perry-designed meals and sleek design.
The key difference? Emirates lounges are accessible to Business Class passengers and Skywards elites, while Qantas lounges often have stricter entry criteria depending on ticket class and frequent flyer status.
For Aussies seeking consistent, luxury pre-flight experiences, Emirates scores big points here.
Loyalty Programs: Emirates Skywards vs Qantas Frequent Flyer
Loyalty matters when you’re flying long distances from Australia. Qantas Frequent Flyer is part of the oneworld alliance, letting you earn and redeem points with partners like British Airways, American Airlines, and Cathay Pacific.
Emirates airline runs its own Skywards program, which isn’t part of a major alliance but has strong individual partners like Jetstar, Air Canada, and easyJet. Skywards offers tiered benefits, upgrade options, and lounge access, and while redemption costs can be high, frequent sales offer solid value.
Which is better? It depends on your travel patterns. Qantas points are easier to use on domestic flights and with partners, but Skywards is more flexible internationally. Aussies who fly abroad frequently will likely find good value in both — especially if they keep an eye out for an emirates coupon or promo.
Emirates Flight Booking & Qantas Booking: Which is Easier?
Both airlines offer intuitive websites and mobile apps. Emirates flight booking tends to feel more premium, with detailed cabin previews and upgrade offers during checkout. Qantas offers more flexible payment options, including ‘Fly Now, Pay Later’ plans and a slightly better interface for managing domestic and international itineraries together.
For international travellers who value smooth digital experiences, Emirates airline still feels a touch more polished. And when you throw in occasional emirates coupon codes or promotional offers, it’s easier to score upgrades or bonus miles directly during booking.
Pricing & Value for Money
In terms of base fares, Qantas is often more expensive on long-haul international routes — though they do have competitive Economy sales. Emirates frequently offers special pricing, and their premium cabins are often better value when compared to Qantas on similar routes.
With Emirates, you’ll occasionally find bundled perks like free hotel stays in Dubai for layovers or generous luggage allowances. Meanwhile, Qantas leans on its reputation and local loyalty — but extras can add up fast, especially in Economy.
So if value for money is high on your list, Emirates airlines flights tend to offer more bang for your buck, especially if you’re eyeing Business Class.
Deals & Perks: Using an Emirates Coupon or Promo
A hidden gem for savvy Aussies is the Emirates coupon. These are often shared through email newsletters or affiliate sites and can offer discounts, bonus Skywards Miles, or complimentary upgrades.
Qantas doesn’t usually offer traditional coupon codes but occasionally runs points promotions or companion deals. Emirates, on the other hand, is known for seasonal offers targeting Australian cities — think “Fly to Europe and get 10% off + lounge access.”
If you’re booking directly, keep an eye out during checkout on the Emirates flight booking page — they’ll sometimes let you enter promo codes before payment. It’s an easy win for travellers looking to maximise their travel dollars.
Customer Service & Reputation
Aussies love good service — and both airlines generally deliver. Qantas is often praised for its familiar, friendly cabin crew and local touches. Emirates counters with a truly global crew, multilingual service, and attention to detail that reflects its 5-star rating.
In terms of complaints and delays, both airlines fare reasonably well, but Emirates has the edge in international surveys for consistency, punctuality, and in-flight service.
When flying long haul from Australia, a seamless and reliable experience matters — and Emirates airline consistently scores high across the board.
Final Verdict: Which One Should Aussies Choose?
For many Australians, it comes down to destination, price, and preference. Qantas has the home advantage with strong domestic options and a rock-solid frequent flyer network. But Emirates airline offers a more luxurious, globally connected experience — particularly for international routes through Dubai.
If you’re chasing premium perks, wider destination options, and value-added extras like the Emirates lounge or promo codes, Emirates is hard to beat. If you prioritise domestic partnerships, using frequent flyer points on Jetstar, or supporting an Aussie brand, Qantas still delivers.
Truth is, both airlines are top-tier — but for international travel, especially to Europe or the Middle East, Emirates airlines flights often come out on top.
Conclusion
Choosing between Emirate airline and Qantas doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about matching the airline’s strengths with your travel priorities. From cabin comfort and lounge access to loyalty rewards and route coverage, each airline brings something unique to the table for Australian travellers.
Still can’t decide? Use this guide as your reference point the next time you’re booking a long-haul adventure — and don’t forget to check for an emirates coupon to sweeten the deal.
No matter which wing you fly on, the skies from Australia to the world are wide open.
FAQs
1. Is Emirates Airline better than Qantas for long-haul international flights?
It depends on your priorities. Emirates tends to offer more premium features, especially in Business and First Class, while Qantas offers better domestic integration and oneworld loyalty perks.
2. Can I use an Emirates coupon when booking from Australia?
Yes! Emirates often releases promo codes targeted to Aussies — check their official site or affiliate partners for offers.
3. Which airline has better lounges: Emirates or Qantas?
Both have excellent lounges, but the emirates lounge is generally considered more luxurious, especially at international airports.
4. How do Emirates and Qantas compare for frequent flyers?
Qantas has broader domestic reward options through Jetstar and oneworld. Emirates Skywards offers more flexibility for international travellers and better upgrade options.
5. Is it worth booking Emirates flights directly or through a third party?
Booking directly is usually best, especially if you want to use an emirates coupon, choose seats early, or earn the full set of Skywards Miles.