December 2, 2025 — 5:00am
For the past year, Qantas has been offering a non-stop Dreamliner service between Paris and Perth, a route that has intrigued many travelers with its promise of luxury and efficiency. As I embarked on this 16-hour journey in business class, I set out to determine whether the experience justifies the steep price tag.
The Flight Experience
The Qantas Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, operating as flight QF34, departs from Charles de Gaulle Airport on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. As a business class passenger, I was afforded the privilege of priority check-in and access to the American Airlines lounge, which set a positive tone for the journey ahead.
Once onboard, I settled into seat 10A, a window seat in the 1-2-1 business class configuration. The amenities provided were impressive: a plush pillow, a mattress topper, Qantas pyjamas, and a canvas pouch filled with travel essentials. The seat itself was equipped with charging ports and ample storage, converting into a flat-bed that accommodated my 181 cm frame comfortably.
In-Flight Dining and Entertainment
The culinary experience in business class is designed to mimic a fine dining restaurant, with a three-course meal served a few hours after takeoff. I opted for the Asian-style salmon salad, followed by a beef fillet, which was savory but slightly lukewarm. Dessert was a selection of French cheeses, though overly chilled.
Entertainment options were somewhat limited, but I discovered a few quirky films that made the long flight more enjoyable. Notably, the absence of Wi-Fi encouraged a rare opportunity for uninterrupted relaxation.
Service and Sustainability
The service onboard was attentive, with the crew maintaining a balance between being helpful and unobtrusive. Customer service manager Christopher Marchioro highlighted that the crew appreciates the longer flights for their unhurried pace, a sentiment that resonated with my experience.
Qantas has taken steps towards sustainability, using recycled or renewable materials in their amenity kits and eliminating plastic wrapping on mattress toppers for flights departing Australia. This initiative reportedly removes 7 million individual pieces of plastic annually.
Cost Analysis
The cost of a return business class ticket from Paris to Perth starts at $10,335. Comparatively, economy class fares are significantly lower, raising the question of value. For those who prioritize comfort and efficiency, the price difference might be justified by the seamless travel experience and reduced jet lag.
“Is that worth the $9000 (return) difference in fare compared to economy? Depends on your bank balance I guess.”
Final Verdict
With Qantas set to launch its “Project Sunrise” flights to London and New York next year, the airline is clearly committed to expanding its ultra-long-haul offerings. My journey on the Dreamliner was marked by comfort and convenience, making it an appealing option for those who can afford it.
Ultimately, the decision to fly business class on this route hinges on personal priorities and financial considerations. For those seeking a stress-free and restful journey, the Qantas Dreamliner delivers a compelling experience.
Our rating out of five: ★★★★½
The writer traveled as a guest of Qantas.
For more information about air travel and sustainability, see iata.org.
Michael Bachelard is a senior writer and former deputy editor and investigations editor of The Age. He has worked in Canberra, Melbourne, and Jakarta, has written two books, and won multiple awards for journalism, including the Gold Walkley. Connect via Twitter or email.
