QF771 SYD to CBR

[Harriet Vane]

Flying back from Sydney to Canberra after our holiday (we were originally driving so this is ticketed separately to the international flights) we are booked on QF771 on Sat 5 Jan. This is listed as a 737-800 flight, and the only non-Dash 8 flight that QF will operate directly from SYD to CBR that day (9 x Dash 8 flights, 1 x 737 flight). Now, we are likely to have some excess baggage and I am prepared to pay the (incredibly small) amount QF charges for this. My question is how likely it is for the flight to be cancelled/aircraft changed if anyone knows.

I can't imagine that there will be that many people flying into CBR on a weekend still so close to the holidays, and obviously you can't take excess baggage on a Dash 8. Is it worth considering a contingency plan or is it very unlikely that QF would change the aircraft to something smaller i.e. another Dash 8? SeatCounter shows aircraft types for all the other flights that day but this one, which is what got me thinking.

 

[littl_flier]

The fact that QF have elected to only operate 1 mainline flight means they have already factored in the low loads. Whilst they may cancel the flight and are within their rights, I would be surprised if this was the case as it is the only one operating for the day.

If this happens though, they will reaccomodate you onto a Dash aircraft. Like you say though, baggage will be a different story (32kg vs 20kg) but if you do have any problems at checkin because you've been moved to a Dash8, I would nicely explain to the CSA your situation. If you have no luck, the luggage may have to come on a later flight but again, I would be surprised.

Unfortunately I have no insider knowledge to whether QF will or will not cancel the flight.

Also, they have sold 4 J seats (at least).

 

[serfty]

As it's the only flight available for those who 'need' to travel in J, it is unlikely to be XLD or have a equipment substitution.

Currently showing J8 D8 - implying some bookings already.

 

[oz_mark]

I have flown the 737 on the weekends with only half a dozen passengers or so on it, so they do still operate with low loads. But, that does not mean they always will.