QantasLink’s next-gen Airbus A220-300 aircraft embarks on its first international flight today, debuting on the thrice-weekly Brisbane–Wellington route. The Qantas A220 marks a new aviation era as the longer-range jet opens up new destination possibilities.
It’s the first internationally scheduled service for the new Qantas A220, which promises reduced noise and 25 per cent less fuel burn than the aircraft it replaces.
The aircraft carries 137 passengers with 10 Business seats in a 2×2 configuration and 127 Economy seats in a 2×3 layout.
It also offers a more spacious cabin and the largest windows of any single-aisle plane along with free inflight Wi-Fi and additional charging points.
Qantas Group has more than 200 new A220s on order with the 11th aircraft recently added to the QantasLink fleet and four more due by mid-2026. QantasLink will also debut the aircraft on the Adelaide–Brisbane route in March, marking the first time for the A220 in South Australia.
QantasLink CEO Mark Dal Pra said the trans-Tasman announcement marks a significant milestone for the Group’s historic fleet renewal program.
“Feedback from customers about the A220 has been fantastic and we’re really excited for the aircraft to take off on its first scheduled international route. Brisbane is an important market for us and the A220’s size and economics make them a great fit for many of our trans-Tasman and Pacific routes,” he said.
Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan Graaff added: “Having Qantas operate the A220 on international services out of Brisbane is a win for the city. This next-generation aircraft is significantly quieter and fuel-efficient, giving travellers a more comfortable and sustainable way to fly.”
For more info, head to qantas.com
KARRYON UNPACKS: The Qantas A220 international debut shows how right-sized, fuel-efficient aircraft can unlock new routes, improve sustainability credentials and give advisors more sellable options across short-haul international networks.
