The discussion on crewing numbers for the AUS-DXB-LHR services are interesting but academic.
Reliable information is that as soon a possible, QF will be pulling out of LHR. The reasons for this are as follows:
1. QF has two remaining morning slots at LHR. 0500 and 0600 respectively. Leasing these slots would be worth a motza in KPI's to the various managers involved.
2. EK currently runs 5 A380s per day to LHR and 2 per day to LGW. Ergo, no shortage of capacity to take over the QF flying.
3. As a subset of point 2, I understand that EK has offered QF seats on the above LHR / LGW services at approx 40% less then the current CASK. Whilst this is obviously predatory pricing, it again means more bonus related cash for everyone from "Lovebite" down to "Hailstone" and therefore is being enthusiastically trumpeted as a key pillar of 'saving' the QF international operation.
4. Because of curfew restrictions at SYD, the time that QF aircraft will arrive in DXB means a minimum of 4.5 hour transit for passengers going onwards to european destination. Without the need to fly onwards to LHR, these services can be re-timed.