The move comes as the Qatari flag carrier plans to increase passenger capacity on a particular route.

Travellers between Doha and Perth will soon have the chance to fly on the Airbus A380.

Qatar Airways has confirmed that from December 6 it will increase passenger capacity on the route with the introduction of the double-decker jet. The upgrade to the link, which was previously operated by the Boeing 777-300ER, will add an extra 163 daily seats, with space for up to 517 passengers on each A380 flight. The aircraft has three cabins comprising eight first class seats, 48 in business class and 461 in economy.

The Doha-based company said the move was spurred on by its new strategic partnership with Virgin Australia. The deal sees a significant expansion of codeshare options between the airlines as well as lounge and loyalty programme benefits.

Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways Group chief executive said: “We want to demonstrate our commitment to Australia by continuing the work we did during the pandemic to keep Australians connected. It is imperative for Australian travellers to feel welcome in our city whether they are transiting or visiting Doha.”

Al Baker also confirmed that during the upcoming FIFA World Cup – to be hosted in Qatar – all flights to and from the Western Australia city (numbered QR 900/1) “will be scheduled taking into consideration football match timings so that all fans can enjoy the biggest event of the year.”