---
node: au_qantas
type: organization
slug: qantas
title: "Qantas"
lead: "Australia's flag airline, founded in outback Queensland in 1920 and one of the oldest airlines in the world."
published: 2026-07-15
updated: 2026-07-15
image_file: qantas.jpg
image_source: "https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Qantas_b747_over_houses_arp.jpg"
image_author: "Adrian Pingstone"
image_license: "Public domain"
---

## What it was

Qantas — an acronym for Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services — began in 1920 as a small airline linking the towns of the vast outback.

## Role

Its network connecting scattered towns supported life in an interior with few roads or railways. In time it expanded to international routes and became a gateway between Australia and the world.

## Fate

Known by its Flying Kangaroo emblem, Qantas remains Australia's flag airline today and is recognised as one of the oldest airlines in the world.