On November 28, Qantas welcomed the return to Australia of the Airbus A380.

Qantas Executive General Manager, Mr John Borghetti, said the airline remained firmly committed to the A380 as an integral part of its future aircraft fleet.

"When the A380 first visited Australia in November last year to help celebrate Qantas' 85th anniversary, it generated incredible levels of interest," Mr Borghetti said.

"Just as when we first ordered it in 2000, the aircraft remains the most suitable aircraft for Qantas to operate into the future on long haul routes between Australia and the United States and United Kingdom.

"Our commitment to the A380 was further confirmed recently when we ordered an additional eight aircraft."

Qantas has now ordered 20 A380s for delivery from August 2008 through to 2015.

Mr Borghetti said the aircraft would revolutionise air travel and deliver significant benefits to Qantas, its customers and the environment.

"The A380 will allow airlines to offer customers new and exciting inflight products, services and experiences," Mr Borghetti said.

"Qantas is continuing to work with award-winning Australian designer Marc Newson on new, state-of-the-art First, Business and Economy cabins for the Qantas A380 that will offer enhanced levels of space and comfort."