A220 Sydney Harbour flyover

Production is in full swing for Qantas' first Airbus A220

Latest News|Published 13 July 2023

The Qantas Group’s first Airbus A220 aircraft has started construction, marking a key milestone for our fleet renewal program, with the first of 29 aircraft expected to arrive in Australia before the end of the year. This state-of-the-art aircraft represents the next generation of our domestic fleet, offering unparalleled passenger comfort and an extended aircraft range.  

The A220 will gradually replace QantasLink’s Boeing 717 fleet, which operate routes across Australia. The first QantasLink A220 will fly between Melbourne and Canberra, with subsequent aircraft to be deployed to other parts of the regional and domestic network. With double the range of the Boeing 717, the A220 has the ability to fly between any city in Australia, paving the way for new domestic and short-haul international routes as more aircraft join our fleet.

With production in full swing, Qantas is calling on Australians to help name its fleet of new A220s, based around the theme ‘native wildlife’. Our aircraft names have always celebrated what’s special about Australia, from its places and pioneers to its natural wonders. Continuing that tradition, we’re naming our A220 fleet after Australia’s unique and rare wildlife.

Until 8 August 2023, Australians can nominate up to six names via a dedicated page on qantas.com. A shortlist will then be released so the public can vote for their favourites before the final names are revealed. 

QantasLink A220 facts:

  • The Qantas Group has ordered 29 Airbus A220s, with purchase right options for more, as part of its Project Winton fleet renewal program of up to 299 new aircraft to replace and grow its narrowbody fleet. This significant investment will see the Group take delivery of a new aircraft every three weeks on average for the next few years.
  • A total of seven A220s are expected to be in service by the end of 2024, building up to a total of 29 aircraft by 2027. 
  • The QantasLink A220 will seat 137 passengers in a two-cabin configuration with 10 Business seats and 127 seats in Economy. 
  • The A220s will mostly connect smaller capital cities like Canberra and Hobart, with our major hubs in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. 
  • The A220 has almost double the range of the 717 at over 6,000 kilometres, meaning it can fly between any city in Australia. The aircraft burns 28 per cent less fuel per seat than the 717. 

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