"Top US Airlines Flying to Australia

Amy Jul 20, 2026

If you're planning a journey from the USA to Australia, you're in for an exciting adventure. With its vast Outback, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife, Australia is a thrilling destination. But before you pack your bags, you'll need to know which airlines can take you there from the USA. Let's explore the options.

11 Best Business Class Airlines for USA to Australia Flights in 2025
11 Best Business Class Airlines for USA to Australia Flights in 2025

The journey from the USA to Australia is one of the longest flights you can take, so it's essential to choose an airline that offers comfort, good service, and reasonable flight durations. Most of these flights will involve a layover in Asia or the Pacific, so we'll cover those options as well.

How to Fly to Australia (Without Losing Your Mind)
How to Fly to Australia (Without Losing Your Mind)

Direct and One-Stop Flights from the USA to Australia

Direct flights from the USA to Australia are long, typically around 15 hours, but some airlines make the journey more comfortable with their services. Let's look at the options:

The Best Airline for International Travel: Qantas Airways - My Curly Adventures
The Best Airline for International Travel: Qantas Airways - My Curly Adventures

Qantas and American Airlines offer direct flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to Sydney (SYD), each with a flight time of around 14 hours. Qantas also flies directly from New York (JFK) and Dallas (DFW) to Sydney, with stopovers in either DFW or LAX.

One-Stop Flights from USA to Australia

an airplane on the tarmac with text overlay that reads domestic flights in australia how to find the best details
an airplane on the tarmac with text overlay that reads domestic flights in australia how to find the best details

While direct flights save you time, one-stop flights can still be an attractive option due to scheduling, connections, or cost. Here are some airlines that offer one-stop journeys:

  • Emily's Pick: Emirates offers multiple connections from various US cities, with a stopover in Dubai. The journey typically lasts around 20-24 hours.
  • United: United Airlines flies from various US cities to Australia via Seoul, Tokyo, or Singapore, with flight times ranging from 23 to 32 hours.
  • Delta: Delta offers connections through Tokyo or Seoul, with flight times similar to United.

Other airlines like Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic also provide one-stop connections to Australia. Each has its own unique features and connections, so be sure to compare and decide what works best for you.

What is it like to fly to Australia from the US?
What is it like to fly to Australia from the US?

Flights with a Long Layover in a Third Country

Some airlines offer flights with a layover that can be stretched into a longer visit. This allows you to explore another country en route to Australia. Emirates, for instance, allows passengers to extend their layover in Dubai, which many travelers use as a chance to explore the city or even head to nearby destinations like Oman or Jordan.

Similarly, Qantas offers a 'Flights + Flights + Hotel' package for passengers stopping over in Sydney. You can opt for a hotel stay in the city during your layover, allowing you to extend your journey and see more of Australia.

9 Cheap Airports to Fly Into Australia from the US
9 Cheap Airports to Fly Into Australia from the US

Finding the Right Airline for Your Needs

When choosing an airline, consider your preferences, budget, and the overall flight experience. Here are some aspects to consider:

the airline flyer is shown with information about how to get on an airplan
the airline flyer is shown with information about how to get on an airplan
an airline ticket is shown on the plane's flight information page, and it appears to be in english
an airline ticket is shown on the plane's flight information page, and it appears to be in english
World's Best Airlines and Best Low-cost Airlines in 2024
World's Best Airlines and Best Low-cost Airlines in 2024
Travel ✈️
Travel ✈️
How to Find Cheap Flights to Australia from the US
How to Find Cheap Flights to Australia from the US
Save big money with this Australia discounted flights trick
Save big money with this Australia discounted flights trick
New beginnings
New beginnings
Ahhh it’s time for AUSTRALIA
Ahhh it’s time for AUSTRALIA
Jetstar Australia - Economy Class A320 review
Jetstar Australia - Economy Class A320 review
Top 10 Airlines for Your Trip to Australia
Top 10 Airlines for Your Trip to Australia

In-flight Entertainment: Long flights can be tiresome. Check the airline's in-flight entertainment options to see if they have enough variety to keep you engaged.

Comfort and Legroom: Consider the seat and legroom options. Some airlines offer stretch seating or premium economy to make the journey more comfortable.

Budget and Pricing

While it's tempting to choose the cheapest option, consider the total cost, including additional fees for baggage or seat selection. Be on the lookout for hidden costs and compare offers from different airlines to find the best deal.

Frequent Flyer Programs: If you're a frequent flyer, check if the airline offers a loyalty program. Earning points or miles can lead to significant savings in the future.

In summary, several direct and indirect flights are available from the USA to Australia, with layovers in various Asian or Pacific cities. Consider the flight duration, your preferences, and your budget when choosing the right airline for your journey. With the right preparation, your flight can be a pleasant and exciting beginning to your Australian adventure.

Now, pack your bags, board your flight, and get ready to explore the Land Down Under!