QantasLink’s next generation Airbus A220 aircraft has landed in Launceston today, becoming the first city outside Australian capitals to welcome the new aircraft.
The inaugural flight landed at 10.40am and was operated by the QantasLink aircraft named, Koala, the second A220 to join the QantasLink fleet earlier this year. There are four A220 aircraft currently operating across the Qantas network, with the fifth expected to arrive in November.
The aircraft is more fuel efficient than previous generation aircraft. Its modern light and bright cabin design with large windows and around 20 per cent more overhead lockers, specially designed seats and greater sense of space offers a more comfortable flight for customers.
The A220s are steadily replacing QantasLink’s long-serving fleet of Boeing 717s as part of the Qantas Group’s domestic fleet renewal program. This aircraft is already operating on flights between Melbourne and Hobart and will begin operating flights between Sydney and Launceston from late October as the airline draws closer to the retirement of the final Boeing 717 later this month.
QantasLink CEO Rachel Yangoyan said the A220 would provide an improved experience for travellers to and from Launceston.
“We are thrilled to bring the new Airbus A220 aircraft to Launceston for the first time today,” said Ms Yangoyan. “We’ve had great feedback from customers on the A220 since it first started flying on our network earlier this year. It offers more space, larger windows, fast Wi-Fi and specially designed seats that will all vastly improve the travelling experience.
“The size of the aircraft makes it the perfect addition to our fleet that currently operate our routes to the Apple Isle and it’s great to see the A220 now flying to two Tasmanian airports.
“As Tasmania is the home of ecotourism, there is no better place for this aircraft to fly as it generates fewer emissions per seat that the aircraft it’s replacing.”
Launceston Airport CEO Shane O’Hare said the Airbus A220 is a fantastic aircraft and a game changer for Australia. “We’re delighted to welcome the first service to Launceston. Passengers will notice the larger windows and quieter engines, and our local businesses will benefit from the extra passengers the aircraft can carry.
“The A220 is incredibly versatile and presents some incredible possibilities for Launceston, so we’re excited to work with Qantas on its introduction to our region and future deployment opportunities.”