Qantas has marked a major milestone in its fleet renewal journey as the Airbus A220 operates its first scheduled international service, departing from Brisbane, Australia, for Wellington, New Zealand. The flight marks the debut of the airline’s next-generation aircraft on the global stage, bringing improved efficiency, comfort and sustainability to the busy trans-Tasman corridor.
A New Era for Trans-Tasman Travel
Qantas A220 is scheduled to operate up to three times a week on the Brisbane–Wellington route, giving passengers a new flying experience while showcasing the aircraft’s long-range capabilities beyond domestic operations.
Designed for short to medium haul routes, the A220 is replacing older generation aircraft with a significantly lower noise footprint and up to 25% less fuel burn per seat. Its extended range also opens the door to new international routes as the fleet continues to grow.
The aircraft is part of the Qantas Group’s historic fleet renewal program, which includes more than 200 new aircraft on order across the group. QantasLink has now taken delivery of its 11th A220, with four more expected by mid-year, strengthening the airline’s regional and international network.
Designed for Comfort and Connectivity
The A220 features a 137-seat layout across two cabins designed by renowned Australian industrial designer David Caon. Business Class offers 10 seats in a 2-2 configuration, while Economy features 127 seats in a 2-3 layout, delivering wider seats and a greater sense of space.
Passengers also benefit from the largest windows of any single-aisle aircraft, fast and free Wi-Fi, integrated device holders, USB-A and USB-C charging throughout the cabin, and wireless charging pads in Business Class. These features reflect Qantas’ focus on improving the onboard experience while maintaining operational efficiency.
Boost for Brisbane and Regional Growth
QantasLink chief executive Mark Dal Pra described the debut on Feb. 2, as a “significant milestone,” highlighting strong customer feedback and A220’s suitability for trans-Tasman and Pacific routes. Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan Graaff welcomed the move, noting the A220’s quieter operations would benefit both travellers and communities living under flight paths.
The launch comes as Qantas expands its Brisbane footprint further, with Brisbane–Honiara services increasing from four to five weekly flights from March 29, 2026, reinforcing the airline’s long-term investment in Queensland.
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