December 2, 2025 — 2:00am
For over a year now, Qantas has been operating its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on the non-stop route between Paris and Perth. This service, which runs thrice weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, offers a business-class experience that prompts travelers to question: is the upgrade worth the premium cost?
The journey spans 16 hours and 20 minutes, a daunting prospect for many. As I embarked on this unprecedented business-class flight, my curiosity was piqued by two main questions: is the upgrade worth the extra thousands of dollars (or points), and can one endure such a lengthy non-stop flight comfortably?
The Airport Experience
From the outset, the experience at Charles de Gaulle Airport was seamless. Priority check-in and boarding were both swift and painless, complemented by access to the American Airlines lounge, a perk for Qantas business travelers. The lounge offered a tranquil environment to relax before the long journey ahead.
Onboard Comfort and Amenities
The Seat
Once onboard, the Dreamliner’s business class seats are arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring every passenger has direct aisle access. My seat, 10A, came equipped with a fluffy white pillow, a mattress-topper, Qantas pyjamas, a large blanket, and a canvas pouch filled with amenities. The seat itself featured charging ports and ample storage, a significant upgrade from economy class.
The seat converts into a flat-bed, measuring between 24-25 inches in width and 80 inches in length, comfortably accommodating my 181 cm frame. The decision to change into pyjamas post-meal proved wise, as the mattress topper provided an unexpectedly luxurious sleep experience.
Dining and Entertainment
The dining service, stretched over several hours, began with an Asian-style salmon salad, followed by a beef fillet. While the flavors were commendable, the presentation left something to be desired. Dessert, a selection of French cheeses, was unfortunately served too cold to fully appreciate.
Entertainment options were initially underwhelming, but a deeper search revealed a selection of unique films that kept me engaged. The absence of Wi-Fi, surprisingly, was a welcome break from constant connectivity.
Service and Sustainability
The cabin crew’s service was attentive yet unobtrusive, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Customer service manager Christopher Marchioro’s offer of a piccolo latte upon waking was a delightful touch, highlighting the crew’s commitment to passenger comfort.
Qantas’s sustainability efforts are noteworthy, with amenity kits now using recycled materials and the removal of plastic wrapping on business class mattress toppers. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to reduce the airline’s environmental footprint.
Cost and Value
With business class fares starting at $10,335 for a return trip from Paris to Perth, the price tag is significant. However, the uninterrupted flight, coupled with the comfort and service, provides a compelling case for those who value a seamless travel experience.
The impending launch of Qantas’s “Project Sunrise” flights to London and New York further underscores the airline’s commitment to long-haul travel innovation. For travelers weighing the cost against the benefits, the decision ultimately hinges on personal priorities and financial flexibility.
Despite initial skepticism, the Paris to Perth Dreamliner route delivers on its promise of comfort and convenience, making it a worthy consideration for those seeking a premium travel experience.
“Is that worth the $9000 (return) difference in fare compared to economy? Depends on your bank balance I guess.”
Our rating out of five: ★★★★½
The writer traveled as a guest of Qantas.
