In a milestone for Australian regional aviation, QantasLink’s state-of-the-art Airbus A220 aircraft has made its inaugural landing in Launceston, Tasmania. This event marks Launceston as the first non-capital city in Australia to welcome the next-generation aircraft. It signals a new chapter in the country’s domestic air travel.
The much-anticipated flight touched down at Launceston Airport at 10:40 am, piloted by the aircraft affectionately named Koala.
This A220 is the second of its kind to join QantasLink’s growing fleet this year, with four such aircraft now operational across the Qantas network. The airline now looks forward to a further fleet addition. A fifth A220 is slated to arrive in November, further expanding the new fleet.
The Airbus A220 represents a significant leap forward in aviation technology. Boasting superior fuel efficiency compared to its predecessors, the aircraft aligns perfectly with the growing demand for more sustainable travel options.
Passenger comfort is at the forefront of the A220’s design. Travelers stepping aboard the A220 are greeted by a modern, light-filled cabin that immediately sets a new standard for regional flights. The aircraft features oversized windows that flood the cabin with natural light.
One of the most noticeable improvements is the increased overhead storage space – about 20% more than previous models. This additional room is a game-changer for passengers, especially on shorter flights where quick boarding and disembarking are crucial.
The seats themselves have been custom-designed for optimal comfort, with extra padding in Economy class. This will comes as a welcome upgrade for those accustomed to the retiring Boeing 717s. The overall cabin layout creates a sense of spaciousness that belies the aircraft’s compact exterior.
Rachel Yangoyan, CEO of QantasLink, expressed her enthusiasm about the A220’s debut in Launceston. Customer feedback on the A220 has been overwhelmingly positive since its introduction to our network earlier this year, she stated.
The enhanced traveling experience, with features like fast Wi-Fi and our improved entertainment app, truly sets a new standard for regional flights. the introduction of the A220 to Launceston is part of a broader strategy. It’s already serving the melbourne-Hobart route, and plans are in place to begin Sydney-Launceston flights by late October.
This expansion coincides with the retirement of QantasLink’s last Boeing 717 later this month, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new one. Yangoyan also highlighted the aircraft’s environmental credentials, noting its reduced emissions per seat compared to its predecessors. Tasmania, being a hub for ecotourism, is the perfect destination for this more sustainable aircraft, she added.
Shane O’Hare, CEO of Launceston Airport, shares in the excitement surrounding the A220’s arrival. This aircraft is a true game-changer for Australia, O’Hare remarked. He pointed out the benefits not just for passengers who will enjoy quieter flights and improved comfort but also for local businesses, which stand to gain from the increased passenger capacity.
O’Hare is particularly optimistic about future possibilities. the A220’s versatility opens up exciting opportunities for Launceston. We’re eager to collaborate with Qantas on potential new routes and increased frequencies. As QantasLink continues to phase out its Boeing 717 fleet in favor of the A220, passengers can look forward to a host of improvements: A two-class configuration with 10 Business and 127 Economy seats, Complimentary, high-speed Wi-Fi for all passengers, Enhanced personal device holders and multiple charging options ,Significantly reduced noise levels, both in-cabin and for communities near airports, A 25% reduction in carbon emissions per seat.
The arrival of the Airbus A220 in Launceston isn’t just a win for the city it’s a glimpse into the future of regional aviation in Australia. As more of these aircraft take to the skies, travelers can expect a new standard of comfort, efficiency, and sustainability on their domestic journeys.
