That is more than double the underlying profit before tax of A$367 million it posted in the year-ago period. In August, the Flying Kangaroo posted one of the fastest turnarounds in Australian corporate history with a return to full-year, pre-tax profit of A$975 million.
The profit boost comes on the back of an aggressive cost-cutting programme, a tailwind from cheaper fuel costs and stronger revenue growth, the airline said in a statement.
Qantas will announce first-half earnings on Feb. 23.