Hello,

I visited SYD last month and the only way I could do it was with ZED's as my own airline does not fly there. I took QF over and back, no issues watsoever. Keep in mind QF operates the 380 and 747ER. Both of these aircraft have the legs to make it to SYD and carry extra fuel to divert to MEL if necessary (if the weather craps out in SYD, MEL is usually the alternate). DL operates the 777LR, from my understanding this aircraft should not suffer any payload restrictions on this route (I might be wrong- a DL insider might offer more insight). UAL out of LAX operates the 747-400 (none upgraded engines) which out of LAX usually does frequently take a payload penalty due to the heavy amount of cargo loaded out of LAX. Out of SFO is a hit or miss, better bet than LAX. The QF 380 (10:25 PM departure) is a joy to fly on and is a massive aircraft, additionally it holds a large number of passengers. If at this poiint there are only 40 seats left on I'm assuming UAL or DL, it would be your best bet to get a backup on QF, if you really want to go. Have fun down under.

Regards,

Chepos