Qantas Link Introduces Embraer E190s to Replace Fokker 100s in WA

QantasLink has unveiled exciting upgrades for its operations in Western Australia. These enhancements include improvements to the cabin experience on its Airbus fleet and the introduction of Embraer E190 aircraft to replace the older Fokker 100s.

These developments will impact Network Aviation, QantasLink’s wholly owned Perth-based subsidiary. Network Aviation operates over 600 weekly flights to more than 25 destinations across regional Western Australia, catering to local communities and the resources sector.

Improvements in Cabin Experience and Wi-Fi Availability

As part of these updates, all 28 Airbus A320 and A319 aircraft in Network Aviation’s fleet will be outfitted with onboard Wi-Fi. This will allow passengers to use the Qantas Entertainment App to enjoy movies and TV shows on their personal devices.

The A320s will also feature upgraded seating with USB A and C charging ports as well as device holders. The first aircraft equipped with these enhancements is expected to enter service later this year, with the complete cabin and Wi-Fi rollout scheduled to be finalized by early 2027.

Replacement of Fokker 100 Aircraft

QantasLink has confirmed the acquisition of three mid-life Embraer E190 jets, which are anticipated to arrive by the end of 2026. These jets will start to gradually replace the aging Fokker 100 fleet, which has been in operation for over thirty years.

The airline intends to secure up to 14 E190s in total. QantasLink emphasized that these new aircraft will offer better fuel efficiency and enhanced reliability compared to the Fokker jets they are replacing.

The transition will occur in phases, with Fokker 100s being decommissioned as Network Aviation receives A320s from Jetstar Asia and takes delivery of the new E190s.

Operations of Network Aviation

Network Aviation provides flights to various destinations, including Darwin, Newcastle, Hobart, Christmas Island, and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, along with over 25 other regional locations within Western Australia.

The current fleet comprises more than 35 aircraft, including Fokker 100s, Airbus A319s, and Airbus A320s. This subsidiary offers both high-capacity charter services and regular passenger transport, focusing on Western Australia’s resources sector and regional communities.

Comprehensive Fleet Program by Qantas Group

The recent fleet enhancements in Western Australia are part of Qantas Group’s broader strategy to rejuvenate its fleet, which includes firm orders for over 200 new aircraft and cabin refurbishments for its Boeing 737 and A330 models.

Mark Dal Pra, CEO of QantasLink, stated that this investment underscores the airline’s dedication to its operations in Western Australia.

“This multi-million-dollar investment emphasizes our long-term commitment to serving the vital resources sector in Western Australia, as well as connecting regional communities across the state,” Dal Pra remarked. “It will significantly enhance the travel experience for our customers while also boosting reliability and efficiency across our WA network.”

Dal Pra also highlighted that this initiative builds on Qantas’ efforts to develop Perth as a central hub, which includes recent investments in training facilities, upgrades to infrastructure at Perth Airport, and the introduction of new routes to destinations like Newcastle, Hobart, Johannesburg, and Auckland.

The timeline for retiring the Fokker 100 and fully integrating all 14 planned E190s has yet to be disclosed.