SYD-DPS truly non-stop in a 738

[shuuy]

Trying to get a bit more facts on the frequency of SYD-DPS truly being non-stop (vs refuelling in DRW given winds, loads, weather).

What are the experiences of the Forum, noting 2871nm appears quite close to the 737-800 range of 2935nm

 

[asterix]

We flew SYD-DPS on Virgin on their 737-800 on 08/12/2022 direct. We also flew SYD-DPS and DPS-SYD back in April 2017 direct.

 

[Spacetravel]

It depends on the loads. VA 1.0 (and QF pre covid) would block seats to ensure 737 could do it non-stop. Demand wasn't as strong either so flights might have had enough spare seats for headroom if there was strong headwinds. As far as I am aware QF are only using an A330 right now so they don't need to stop. VA 2.0 are maxing the plane out which is why they regularly require a refuelling stop.

When QF switch back to 737 the best way to know would be checking recent trips on flight aware or similar.

 

[shuuy]

3 days in for QF43 on a 738. 1 from 3 stopping in Darwin.

Virgin Australia over the last 14 days - never in DRW (on same aircraft type)

Why Qantas Why?

 

[Qantas747]

Qantas usually blocks 4, 5, 6 and 7 B & D on QF43. Of the many times I've flown on it I have only once had a refuelling stop in Broome.

 

[milehighclub]

3 days in for QF43 on a 738. 1 from 3 stopping in Darwin.

1 from 3? There has only been 1 via DRW since the 737 returned on the 30th Jan, making it 1 out of 18.

When you look at both VA and QF, they almost divert on the same days or within 1/2 days, not surprisingly given the same aircraft on the same route. In November, both VA and QF diverted on the 14th, 15th, 16th and 17th.

QF naturally didn't have any whilst the A330 was operating.

 

[Quickstatus]

What's the problem with having to do a refueling stop?

 

[shuuy]

Problem with a refuelling stop is +60-90mins added.. and when travelling with two kids under 3 (both after their bed times) it’s hectic.

Regardless, our QF flight SYD-DPS only had 50 pax… apparently they moved many over to JQ to help with weight (not sure how I would feel about that..)

Was quite nice to each have a full row!

 

[kangarooflyer88]

Regardless, our QF flight SYD-DPS only had 50 pax… apparently they moved many over to JQ to help with weight (not sure how I would feel about that..)

I frankly wouldn’t mind being “inconvenienced by JQ” and being forced onto a widebody 787 for such a trek, particularly if QF gave me an extra leg room seat to sweeten the deal!