Australia’s aviation landscape is about to take a major leap forward. Qantas has confirmed a new direct service between Rome and Perth, launching in May 2026, making Western Australia an even stronger gateway to Europe. This extended seasonal route is not only a win for leisure and business travellers but also a boost for tourism, trade, and cultural ties between the two regions.
A Milestone in European Connectivity
Western Australia already stands out as a hub for long-haul travel. With nonstop Qantas services from Perth to London and Paris, Perth has cemented its role as Australia’s gateway to Europe. The new Rome–Perth flights will add another vital link, creating more travel opportunities and strengthening Australia’s footprint in European aviation.
The service will run from 3 May to 23 October 2026, providing travellers with an additional eight weeks of operation compared to the 2025 schedule. During peak season, flight frequency will rise from three to four weekly services, translating into 44 extra flights and nearly 10,000 more inbound seats.
For travellers curious about Australia to Italy flight time, the nonstop Perth to Rome journey averages around 16–17 hours, offering a convenient alternative to traditional one-stop routes.
Boosting Tourism and Economic Growth
This expansion goes beyond travel convenience—it’s a strategic move to boost Western Australia’s tourism sector. Tourism WA, in partnership with Qantas and the state government, is running marketing campaigns across Italian news outlets and European platforms to encourage inbound tourism.
Italy has emerged as one of Western Australia’s strongest visitor markets. According to Australia Perth news, visitor numbers from Italy in 2024 were already 8% higher than pre-pandemic levels. With direct Qantas flights from Perth to Italy, the trend is expected to grow even further.
For Italian travellers, the draw is clear: Western Australia offers world-class attractions such as Margaret River wineries, the Bungle Bungles WA, Broome’s turquoise beaches, and vibrant Perth attractions. More flights mean easier access to places like Perth to Broome flights, the iconic Broome to Perth drive, or scenic air tours such as flights over the Bungle Bungles.
At the same time, the expansion creates new opportunities for local businesses, events, and hospitality, fueling job growth and economic diversification.
Strengthening the Aviation Network
The Rome–Perth service by Qantas is part of a broader network of 20 international nonstop connections out of Perth, showcasing how Western Australia is rapidly becoming a world-class aviation hub.
In addition to Europe, routes such as flights to Korea from Perth and emirates Perth to London continue to diversify Perth’s global reach. This reinforces the city’s status as a strategic stopover and destination in its own right.
The addition of Rome also complements other European routes, supporting the idea of a London, Paris, Rome trip from Australia with easier multi-city planning.
Cultural and Familial Connections
Italy’s strong diaspora in Australia ensures these flights carry meaning beyond tourism. Many families split between Europe and Western Australia will find it easier to connect thanks to the new direct flights. Perth’s Italian community—already one of the largest in the country—will benefit from shorter travel times, convenient schedules, and greater flexibility.
For returning visitors, the gateway to Rome via Perth offers seamless access to the wider Star Alliance and oneworld networks. Even niche travel communities—like those following reddit where to stay in Rome or searching for long-range forecasts such as the Rome Italy long range weather forecast—are likely to factor in this route when planning extended stays.
Preparing for the Seasonal Expansion
The 2026 Rome–Perth route is timed to align with Europe’s peak travel season. Travellers should note that cyclone season WA typically runs from November to April, meaning the May–October schedule avoids weather disruptions.
With extended stay Rome GA comparisons trending in online travel discussions and searches for Perth reddit recommendations rising, more travellers are expected to combine city breaks, cultural explorations, and natural wonders into one trip.
Additionally, flights to Italy from Perth will help strengthen business ties, including trade connections across Western Australia landmarks and industries tied to mining, agriculture, and education.
Attractions and Regional Growth
The expansion isn’t just about Rome. For travellers landing in Perth, options such as Perth to Broome flights, Broome to Perth flights, and Broome accommodation packages open access to iconic regions like the Kimberley.
Other popular choices include:
- Flights to Broome from Perth – A gateway to Cable Beach and Broome aviation experiences.
- Bungle Bungles air tours – Scenic views of one of Australia’s most unique landscapes.
- Places in Perth Western Australia – From Kings Park to the Swan River.
- Perth places to go – Trendy neighborhoods, markets, and dining hubs.
These attractions reinforce Western Australia’s growing reputation as a world-class tourism destination.
A Strategic Win for Qantas and WA
For Qantas, this expansion reflects its 2030 vision to enhance air services Australia-wide, offering new long-haul links while supporting Western Australia’s ambitions as a global tourism hub. By increasing flight capacity, Qantas demonstrates confidence in both the new Italy market and Australia’s ability to attract European travellers at scale.
It also aligns with a larger industry trend: airlines focusing on profitable air links that provide long-term value. From CS Air Australia partnerships to services Australia 2030 vision initiatives, Perth’s aviation future is about building sustainable connections that benefit both travellers and the economy.
Conclusion
The launch of Qantas’ direct Rome–Perth flights in 2026 marks a turning point for Australian aviation. It brings more convenience for travellers, strengthens Australia–Europe ties, and boosts tourism across Western Australia. From the Bungle Bungles to Broome, Perth is set to welcome more visitors than ever before, further establishing itself as a global hub.
For those planning trips, whether it’s a flight Perth–Broome, a London–Paris–Rome trip, or exploring places to visit in Perth WA, the new service makes everything more accessible.
As aviation evolves, Perth stands at the forefront of international connectivity, powered by Qantas and supported by a clear government vision. For insightful updates on global travel developments, stay connected with The Inspiring Insight.
