QantasLink, a regional airline that provides services to metropolitan and regional destinations across Australia, has received its first new-generation aircraft, specifically an A220, becoming the 20th operator of this type. The airplane has a unique livery based on Aboriginal artwork and is the first of 29 A220s ordered by the Qantas Group.
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The aircraft will leave the Airbus final assembly line in Mirabel soon and head for Sydney, stopping at Vancouver, Honolulu, and Nadi. The A220 will gradually replace QantasLink's existing 717 fleet. It can fly twice as far, non-stop, connecting any two points across Australia while using 25% less fuel and emitting 25% fewer carbon emissions compared to previous-generation aircraft.
Moreover, the A220 has the largest cabin, seats, and windows in its class, providing passengers with superior comfort. Qantas' A220s will be configured in a two-class layout, with 10 seats in business and 127 in economy, making a total of 137 seats. The A220 is designed specifically for the 100-150 seat segment and is the most modern airliner in its size category. It is powered by the latest generation Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines and can fly up to 3,450 nautical miles or 6,390 kilometers non-stop.
All Airbus aircraft, including the A220, can already operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus aims to make all its planes capable of operating with 100% SAF by 2030. The A220 has received close to 850 orders from 30 customers worldwide, and more than 300 aircraft have been delivered so far.