As the Qantas network steadily grows throughout the US, the airline has confirmed it will now be introducing direct flights from this lucky Australian city to Chicago and San Francisco. But which city will be bestowed the direct journeys? The River City that could: Brisbane.

Operated by the national carrier’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, the new routes are set to launch by the end of April 2020. And, the end game will be to add more than 170,000 seats across the Pacific each year.

With the new path, Brisbane residents will be able to fly directly to America’s third-largest city – with flights leaving four times per week, destined for Chicago. This will save passengers flying between Australia and Chicago more than six hours of travel time on return flights. The 14,326km flight will take approximately 16 hours 20 minutes – making it the fourth-longest passenger flight in the world.

Then, the new thrice-weekly Brisbane to San Francisco flight will see Brisbane become the third Australian city to gain a direct service (following Sydney and Melbourne). This 11,367km flight will take approximately 12 hours 40 minutes.

Thinking about getting in on the first flights next year? Here’s what to do in Chicago and San Francisco according to George Calombaris and Matt Preston.