Phê Vé
April 15, 2026 • 2 min read
Prince Harry and Meghan chose to fly commercially back to Australia instead of using a private jet. This decision not only showcases their down-to-earth nature but also reflects a practical choice given the circumstances.
Harry and Meghan's Return to Australia
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made their first return to Australia since 2018, but this time it wasn’t for a royal tour; instead, they participated in personal engagements. Notably, the couple opted for a commercial flight with Qantas instead of a private jet.
Choosing Qantas Business Class Over First Class
On their recent flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Melbourne (MEL), they traveled in Qantas' business class. This choice garnered attention, especially when compared to their 2018 trip, when they used a private aircraft. Some media outlets, like Fox News, questioned whether this was a strategy aimed at creating a positive public image.
No More A380
The reason for the absence of first class on this flight is that Qantas has retired the Airbus A380 from its Los Angeles-Melbourne route. Instead, the airline now operates the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner for most flights, specifically five days a week. The A380 is set to be completely retired from service by October 25, 2026.
Passengers Unaware
The couple boarded the plane discreetly and slept through most of the flight. Many passengers didn’t recognize them until flight QF94 landed in Melbourne. Almost everyone was surprised to learn that the prince and princess had chosen a commercial flight.
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Đặt vé ngay với giá ưu đãi từ các hãng hàng không
A Fantastic Business Class Experience
Although there was no first class, Qantas’ business class on the Boeing 787-9 is far from a subpar experience. The couple made a very sensible choice by flying commercially, demonstrating their desire to be seen as relatable and approachable to the public. Business class on this aircraft still offers flat beds and a premium flying experience.
Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers
For those looking to explore Australia, flight tickets from Vietnam to Melbourne range from 15 million to 25 million VND, depending on the booking time. Currently, Vietnam and Australia do not require visas for citizens of both countries for short-term stays (under 3 months). Travelers can fly from either of the two main airports: Tan Son Nhat (SGN) and Noi Bai (HAN). However, it’s advisable to regularly check flight schedules and fares for the best options.
Conclusion
Harry and Meghan chose to fly business class to Australia, but it wasn’t due to a rejection of first class. In fact, first class was not an option for this flight. Sometimes the reasons behind such choices are not just strategic or image-related, but simply a matter of the airline's aircraft availability.
Article referenced and edited from: Live and Let's Fly
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