The Q400 will replace smaller and older Q300 aircraft on regional services from Adelaide. Photo: QantasLink.
Qantas’ regional subsidiary has started introducing larger aircraft to its regional routes in South Australia as it phases out older aircraft and rationalises its regional fleet.
The Bombardier Dash 8 Q400 aircraft feature 74 seats in a single-class layout, replacing smaller Q300s on services around the state. The move comes as QantasLink introduces additional Q400s to bolster its regional routes and to have a more common and efficient fleet.
The airline announced in May it would acquire the 14 additional Q400s it bought from Canadian airline Westjet to add to the 31 it already has in service, to replace its 19 older 36-seat Q200s and 50-seat Q300s.
The aircraft were sourced from other airlines as Bombardier/De Havilland Canada ceased production of new aircraft in 2021. The airline says, even as used aircraft, they are, on average, 10 years younger than the smaller aircraft they will replace.
The Q400s will initially operate on services between Adelaide and Port Lincoln, Whyalla, Mount Gambier and Kangaroo Island, with each flight taking between 45 minutes and an hour. The Q400 also flies higher and faster than the smaller Q300s, meaning additional comfort for passengers.
QantasLink CEO Rachel Yangoyan said the upgrade was a significant milestone for regional South Australia.
“These larger aircraft will bring more seats, a faster flight time and improved reliability for South Australia and reaffirms our commitment to the regions,” she said.
“This is the first time the 74-seat Q400 aircraft will be back to Adelaide in 10 years, and for the first time, to new destinations including Mount Gambier and Whyalla.
“Improving the overall travel experience is important but so is investing in the communities that we serve.”
Adelaide Airport managing director Brenton Cox said regional flights were the lifeblood of country towns and cities.
“The introduction of newer and larger aircraft on these routes by QantasLink is a significant win for our regional customers who rely on these services for work, attending appointments and catching up with friends and relatives, as well as benefiting our tourism sector,” he said.
South Australian Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison said the upgrade was an exciting development for South Australia’s regional connectivity and tourism sector.
“The introduction of faster and larger aircraft on our regional routes will not only improve travel times but also increase capacity, making it easier for visitors to explore our beautiful regions,” she said.
“We’re working closely with both airlines and Adelaide Airport to ensure South Australia remains at the forefront of aviation and tourism development. This aligns with our strategy to boost our visitor economy and showcase everything South Australia has to offer.”
