Historic Catalina Legacy Honoured in Naming of Qantas' New A350 Fleet

The Qantas Founders Museum has warmly welcomed Qantas Airways' announcement of the naming and inaugural route of its new Airbus A350aircraft, revealed on 18 June 2026.

Qantas confirmed the first A350 will be named Vega, in honour of one of the Catalina flying boats which served during World War II,with the aircraft set to operate on the Sydney–London route.

The naming initiative follows a proposal by David Thiess,Qantas Appointed Director, and Don Hill, Deputy Chairman of the Qantas Foundation Memorial, who were among a number of Qantas pilots and aviation community members who suggested the new A350 fleet be named in honour of the historic Catalina aircraft. The Stars naming theme was put to a vote across Qantas employees and chose by a record number of team members.

The Catalina flying boats, operated by Qantas during World War II, are renowned for their role in the "Double Sunrise" flights between Australia and Sri Lanka (then Ceylon), representing one of the most remarkable chapters in the airline's history.

David Thiess said the announcement represents a meaningful connection between Qantas' pioneering past and its future:

"Seeing the first A350 named Vega is incredibly rewarding. The Catalinas embody courage, endurance and innovation which are qualities that continue to define Qantas today."

Don Hill added:

"We are delighted that Qantas has embraced this idea in recognising the Catalinas. It ensures the legacy of those aircraft and the people who flew them will continue to be remembered by new generations."

The decision is seen as a powerful tribute to the service of Catalina crews during wartime and a fitting acknowledgment of their contribution to aviation and national history.

The announcement also resonates strongly with the Museum's own story. The Qantas Founders Museum is proud to have a Catalina as part of its collection, and visitors can see the aircraft up close as part of the Museum's tours, offering a direct and tangible link to this remarkable era of aviation.

A spokesperson for the Qantas Founders Museum said:

"This is an incredible way to commemorate the service of the Catalina aircraft during World War II. It aligns beautifully with the story we share with visitors from around the world through our own Catalina. We are thrilled to see such a positive response from both the airline and the broader community."

We congratulate Qantas Airways on the announcement and look forward to seeing the Vega and future A350 aircraft carry forward the proud legacy of the Catalinas.

For more information, visit www.qfom.com.au