Wedoany.com Report on Feb 3rd, Qantas has achieved a significant milestone in its fleet renewal program, with its new Airbus A220 aircraft operating its first scheduled international flight on the Brisbane to Wellington route. This narrow-body jet, operated by QantasLink, will service the trans-Tasman route up to three times a week, offering passengers a quieter cabin, enhanced comfort, and modern in-flight connectivity.
Qantas states that the A220 significantly elevates the in-flight experience. It features a dual-cabin layout designed by David Caon, with seat configurations optimized for comfort and efficiency on short-haul international routes. The aircraft is configured with 137 seats in total, including 10 in Business Class and 127 in Economy. Larger windows and a higher ceiling contribute to a more spacious feel, while carefully selected materials and colors aim to create a bright and tranquil cabin environment.
The Business Class cabin is designed with soft tones and premium finishes, offering a 37-inch seat pitch, wireless charging pads, 6-way adjustable headrests, calf support, and dual USB charging ports. The Economy cabin features fabric-covered seats with a 30-inch seat pitch and 18-inch seat width, along with additional padding for enhanced comfort. Furthermore, the A220 provides fast, complimentary WiFi supported by Viasat satellite service to meet passengers' connectivity needs.
Beyond passenger experience upgrades, the A220 also delivers operational and environmental benefits. Gert-Jan de Graaff, CEO of Brisbane Airport Corporation, noted, "For communities under the flight path, this means quieter arrivals and departures, significantly reducing the impact of aircraft noise on daily life." The aircraft offers up to 25% lower fuel burn compared to previous-generation aircraft, highlighting its advantages in sustainable aviation.
Mark Dal Pra, CEO of QantasLink, said, "Today marks an important milestone in our fleet renewal program." He added that customer feedback on the new aircraft has been positive and emphasized the strategic importance of the Brisbane market. QantasLink has now taken delivery of its 11th A220 aircraft, with four more expected to join the fleet by mid-year, providing greater flexibility to expand trans-Tasman and Pacific services.
Coinciding with the A220's international debut, Qantas also announced that, starting March 29, 2026, it will increase flights on the Brisbane to Honiara (Solomon Islands) route from four to five times per week. This route is operated by Embraer 190 aircraft, further expanding the international connectivity network from Queensland's capital.
