The remaining QANTAS B744 routes when HNL returns to being operated by A330s and SFO is flown by B789s are SYD to JNB, HND and SCL.
As I understand it, CASA doesn't recognise the higher ETOPS rating for the B789 that it obtained when certified or shortly thereafter and would need to formally approve any higher time that would allow unrestricted QANTAS flights on the most economic circle routes, often close to Antarctica.
This would be an impediment for QANTAS commencing B789 services to JNB and SCL? I presume that any higher ETOPS rating will be a decision for CASA following a formal request from QANTAS. With B744s to be withdrawn by late 2020 there is not a lot of time to get this approval, if it is a convoluted process.
ETOPS was an issue with the Virgin B773 flights from MEL to JNB which were route restricted and ceased after operating for a short time.
Any further clarification or information on this topic would be most welcome.
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