Qantas to shed 850 jobs in AI-driven operational overhaul

Qantas Airways has announced plans to cut 850 jobs as part of a major technology and operational transformation programme. The airline has engaged Accenture, a leading global consulting firm, to overhaul its back-end systems and streamline corporate functions. The restructuring reflects broader industry trends as carriers invest heavily in digital infrastructure and automation to reduce costs and improve efficiency.

As part of the arrangement, some corporate functions will be relocated to India, where Accenture maintains significant operations. This move is intended to leverage offshore capabilities while modernising Qantas's aging technology infrastructure. The airline industry has increasingly turned to such partnerships to accelerate digital transformation and remain competitive amid rising operational costs.

The job losses represent a significant impact on Qantas's Australian workforce, though the airline has not provided specific details on which divisions will be affected or the timeline for implementation. The carrier faces mounting pressure to adopt advanced technologies and artificial intelligence solutions to optimise operations, reduce expenses, and enhance customer service—challenges shared across the Asia-Pacific aviation sector.

Qantas's move underscores how major carriers across the region are grappling with the need to modernise legacy systems while managing labour implications. The partnership with Accenture signals the airline's commitment to technological advancement, though the job cuts are likely to face scrutiny from unions and industry observers concerned about employment impacts in Australia's aviation sector.