Qantas Boosts Sydney–Sapporo Service for 2026/27
Getting to Hokkaido just got easier. Qantas has announced a major expansion of its Sydney–Sapporo route for the 2026/27 ski season, and it’s great news for anyone planning a trip to Niseko, Rusutsu, Tomamu, Kiroro or Furano this winter.
What’s Changing
Since launching in December 2025, the Sydney–Sapporo service has become the only non-stop connection between the two cities — no more transiting through Tokyo or Osaka to reach Hokkaido’s powder. Demand has been strong enough that Qantas is now ramping up capacity by over 50% for the coming season.
- Season dates: 7 December 2026 – 31 March 2027
- Up to five flights a week at peak times, up from three
- Operated on Qantas’ A330-200 aircraft, flying direct into New Chitose Airport (CTS)
The 2026/27 Schedule
The frequency ramps up and down with the season, so it’s worth planning around:
- 7–15 December 2026: Three flights a week (Mon, Wed, Sat)
- 16 December 2026 – 31 January 2027: Up to five flights a week (Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun) — the peak window
- 1–28 February 2027: Four flights a week (Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat)
- 1–31 March 2027: Three flights a week (Mon, Wed, Sat)
Why It Matters for Your Trip
More flights mean more flexibility on travel dates, and a genuine non-stop option that cuts hours off the journey compared with connecting through Tokyo. Qantas says the move follows record demand for Japan travel — over one million Australians visited in 2025, up 15% on the year before.
Get in touch with our team to start planning your Hokkaido ski trip.
Image: Courtesy Qantas Facebook Page.
