Travelers in regional South Australia are set to experience enhanced travel options, as Qantas takes a major step in improving air connectivity by introducing larger Q400 turboprop aircraft. This move is part of the airline’s continued investment in its regional fleet, designed to better connect South Australia with the rest of the nation and offer increased seating capacity and improved reliability.
The new larger Q400 aircraft will be deployed across regional routes from Adelaide to Port Lincoln, Whyalla, Mount Gambier, and Kangaroo Island. These routes, which are essential for local residents, tourists, and business travel, will see a significant upgrade in capacity, allowing more passengers to travel in comfort. The airline’s commitment to the region has been further bolstered by the investment in 14 additional Q400s for its regional fleet. Once the fleet transition is complete, three of these state-of-the-art aircraft will be based in South Australia.
Previously, smaller Q300 aircraft with only 50 seats were used on these routes. However, these older models are now being retired as part of Qantas’ fleet renewal program. The introduction of the Q400, which boasts 74 seats, offers a substantial increase in passenger capacity, thus enabling more travelers to enjoy the benefits of frequent regional flights. Qantas currently operates over 50 return flights per week between Adelaide and the regional cities, serving as a crucial link for both local and international travelers.
Apart from the improved aircraft, Qantas is also revamping its onboard services to further enhance the travel experience. Starting in mid-March, regional passengers will be able to enjoy an upgraded beverage selection, featuring eight new wines, including six varieties from renowned South Australian wineries like Stonehaven, Pioneer Road, and Angove. This addition highlights Qantas’ support for the local economy and its commitment to promoting regional tourism, providing more opportunities for local businesses to reach a wider audience.
Rachel Yangoyan, CEO of QantasLink, described the airline’s upgrade as a landmark achievement for regional South Australia. “These larger aircraft will bring more seats, faster flight times, and greater reliability to the region, reaffirming our commitment to the communities we serve,” said Ms. Yangoyan. “This is the first time in 10 years that the 74-seat Q400 will return to Adelaide, and it will also serve new destinations like Mount Gambier and Whyalla.”
The positive impact of the Q400’s introduction extends beyond passengers to local communities and the tourism sector. Adelaide Airport Managing Director Brenton Cox emphasized the importance of regional flights, noting that they are vital for the economy and connectivity of country towns. “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, medical appointments, and family visits,” said Cox. He also pointed out the positive effects on tourism, especially in areas like Port Lincoln and Kangaroo Island, which rely on frequent air travel to bring visitors to their unique attractions.
South Australian Tourism Minister, Zoe Bettison, expressed excitement about the new developments. “The introduction of faster and larger aircraft will not only improve travel times but also increase capacity, making it easier for visitors to explore our beautiful regions,” Bettison said. She further highlighted that the state’s strategy to boost its visitor economy aligns with the upgrades in regional connectivity, which help showcase the state’s tourism offerings to a broader audience.
In addition to these significant improvements to air travel, Qantas’ operations in South Australia are also an important economic driver. The airline currently supports more than 870 jobs in the region and moves approximately 10 million kilograms of freight annually. With these investments, Qantas is strengthening its commitment to the long-term growth of South Australia’s economy, tourism, and regional development.
Overall, the transition to larger aircraft represents a new era for regional air travel in South Australia, offering benefits for local residents, businesses, and tourists alike. The upgraded QantasLink services promise to further enhance connectivity, improve customer experience, and boost the local economy.
