PHOTOS: Qantas’ regional flights get a plush makeover

PHOTOS: Qantas’ regional flights get a plush makeover

Regional flyers can expect sleek new travel experience with the rollout of QantasLink’s upgraded turboprop aircraft.

tumblr_me62r9Pxrl1ql5yr7o1_500

The upgraded Q300 turboprop was unveiled this morning at QantasLink’s hangar facility at Tamworth Airport, the airline’s hub for regional aircraft maintenance. The program to upgrade the fleet of 45 Bombardier Q200, Q300 and Q400 aircraft is expected to be completed by the end of 2019.

Qantas_180625_3550

Passengers onboard flight QF2003 from Tamworth to Sydney will be the first QantasLink customers to fly on the upgraded turboprop!

The improved turboprop experience includes new ergonomic seat cushioning, leather upholstery, tablet device holders, a refreshed colour palette of greys and charcoals and new floor coverings.

Qantas_180625_3119

QantasLink CEO John Gissing said the airline was excited to unveil the airline’s first upgraded turboprop in Tamworth.

“Our turboprop aircraft are a significant part of our network and we’re committed to investing in product and service for regional Australia,” said Gissing.

“We look forward to welcoming our regional travellers onboard our upgraded turboprop aircraft and offering them a better in-flight experience.”

Qantas_180625_3326

The investment in the turboprop upgrade program coincides with other regional initiatives, including the Qantas Group Pilot Academy expected to open in regional Australia in 2019, and follows the release of a study highlighting the Qantas Group contribution to regional Australia.

Tamworth was last week announced as one of the nine regional centres shortlisted as a possible home to the Pilot Academy. It is expected the Academy will employ more than 40 people in training and support roles, and partner with local businesses and suppliers to support key administrative and catering functions, providing new opportunities to drive economic activity in regional Australia from 2019.

A final decision on the Academy’s location is expected to be made in the third quarter of this year.

Latest News