Airline vs Airline
QantasvsAir New Zealand
Business Class
0 shared routes · OneWorld vs Star Alliance
A
QantasOneWorld
B
Air New ZealandStar Alliance
Seat & Cabin Specs
| Feature | Qantas | Air New Zealand |
|---|---|---|
| Product | Business Suite (Project Sunrise) | Business Premier |
| Alliance | OneWorld | Star Alliance |
| Seat Type | Lie-flat Suite with Door (Vantage XL) | Herringbone (Flip Bed) |
| Layout | 1-2-1 | 1-1-1 |
| Bed Length | 80 inches | 79 inches |
| Seat Width | 20-24 inches | 22 inches |
| Screen | 16-inch | 11-inch (Older) / 16-inch (New) |
| Privacy | ✓ Door | Open suite |
| Rating | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 |
| Avg. Price | $3,000 | $3,000 |
Qantas
Business Suite (Project Sunrise)
Qantas is about to redefine ultra-long-haul business class with Project Sunrise — non-stop Sydney to London and New York on the new Airbus A350-1000, launching in early 2027. The next-generation Business Suite features enclosed suites with closing doors, larger IFE screens, and a dedicated wellness zone designed for 19+ hour flights. Combined with Neil Perry-curated dining, an impressive wine program, and Qantas' world-class Sydney and Melbourne lounges, Project Sunrise positions Qantas as a genuine contender against Qatar Airways' QSuite and Singapore Airlines on the world's longest routes.
Lounge: Qantas Business Lounge — Located in Sydney and Melbourne, featuring barista coffee, Neil Perry-inspired dining, shower suites, and relaxation areas. The Qantas First Lounge in Sydney is world-class for eligible passengers.
Project Sunrise A350-1000 (launching early 2027)Next-gen Business Suite with doorNeil Perry DiningSommelier selectionQantas Pyjamas
Air New Zealand
Business Premier
Air New Zealand positions Business Premier as a relaxed, food-and-wine-driven long-haul product rather than a flashy showcase cabin — competitive on comfort and service, but historically a step behind the fully-enclosed suites offered by Gulf and some Asian carriers. The upcoming Business Premier Luxe suite is designed to close that gap on its longest routes, including Auckland–New York and Auckland–Chicago.
Lounge: Air New Zealand International Lounge (AKL) — Located at Auckland Airport, featuring New Zealand wines, locally sourced cuisine, barista coffee, shower suites, and panoramic views. The lounge captures the laid-back Kiwi spirit beautifully.
Herringbone SeatKiwi HospitalityMemory Foam MattressPremium Wines
Expert Take: Qantas vs Air New Zealand
Qantas operates its Business Suite on long-haul international flights, featuring a 1-2-1 configuration with direct aisle access and full lie-flat capabilities extending to 80 inches. The seats offer substantial privacy with closing doors and adjustable dividers for passengers traveling together. Air New Zealand counters with its Business Premier Luxe product, also in a 1-2-1 herringbone layout with 22-inch wide seats that convert to fully flat beds, though the privacy paneling sits slightly lower than Qantas's enclosed suites.
Catering distinguishes these carriers significantly. Qantas partners with Neil Perry for its premium menu featuring Australian cuisine with seasonal ingredients and an extensive wine list curated by sommeliers. Air New Zealand emphasizes fresh New Zealand produce with a strong Pacific influence, though the menu rotation proves less extensive on most routes.
Lounge access gives Qantas the edge with its First Lounges in Sydney and Melbourne accessible to Business passengers on international flights, featuring à la carte dining and premium champagne. Air New Zealand's lounges in Auckland and Wellington offer quality amenities but lack the dedicated first-class-caliber spaces.
For frequent flyers, Qantas Frequent Flyer provides broader oneworld alliance redemption opportunities, while Air New Zealand Airpoints delivers superior redemption value per point on Star Alliance partners.
Qantas wins for travelers prioritizing privacy, lounge luxury, and Australian routes, while Air New Zealand suits those seeking strong value and New Zealand connections.
Expert Verdict
Choose Qantas for the superior cabin experience (8.7/10). Choose Qantas if value matters most — fares average ~$3,000 on shared routes.
Choose Qantas if…
- ✓Thompson Aero Vantage seats with direct aisle access and fully flat beds on the 787-9 fleet
- ✓Neil Perry-curated 'Spirit of Australia' dining program with strong Australian wine selections
- ✓Excellent Sydney and Melbourne Qantas lounges, including access to the exclusive Chairman's Lounge for eligible members
Choose Air New Zealand if…
- ✓Fully lie-flat seats with direct aisle access in 1-2-1 configuration on 787-9 and 777-300ER aircraft
- ✓Exceptional food and wine program showcasing New Zealand produce and regional wines
- ✓New Business Premier Luxe suite with closing door launching on select long-haul routes
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Qantas vs Air New Zealand: FAQ
Is Qantas or Air New Zealand business class better?▾
Choose Qantas for the superior cabin experience (8.7/10). Choose Qantas if value matters most — fares average ~$3,000 on shared routes.
Which has better seats, Qantas or Air New Zealand?▾
Qantas features Business Suite (Project Sunrise) with 1-2-1 layout and privacy doors. Air New Zealand offers Business Premier in a 1-1-1 configuration. Qantas beds are 80 inches; Air New Zealand beds are 79 inches.
How do Qantas and Air New Zealand compare on price?▾
On shared routes, Qantas averages $3,000 while Air New Zealand averages $3,000 round-trip. Through BestBusinessClass.com, you can save an additional 20–40% on either carrier.
What routes do Qantas and Air New Zealand both serve?▾
Qantas and Air New Zealand share 0 destinations in our network.
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