A historic chapter in Australian aviation concluded last week as QantasLink’s final Boeing 717 flight touched down in Canberra. The momentous event, which ended over two decades of service for the 717, marked the retirement of an aircraft synonymous with regional and domestic flights across Australia. As the Boeing 717 departs, QantasLink looks ahead to a future powered by the fuel-efficient Airbus A220, a strategic shift in its fleet renewal program to enhance passenger experience while reducing environmental impact.
The farewell flight (QF1511), piloted by a crew with over 100 years of collective experience operating the Boeing 717, landed at approximately 6:00 PM in Canberra. Operated on the “Great Otway National Park” (registration VH-YQS), the aircraft journeyed between Sydney, Launceston, and Canberra in its final duty. This aircraft completed over 15,000 flights, logging over 17,000 hours in the skies and safely transporting more than one million passengers during its 11-year service with QantasLink.
End of an Era: The Boeing 717 Legacy
The Boeing 717 has served QantasLink and Jetstar for over two decades, providing reliable service across Australia’s skies. The aircraft’s unique ability to perform high-frequency short—to medium-haul routes while comfortably seating around 100 passengers positioned it as a versatile option in the Qantas Group’s fleet. Notably, QantasLink is among the last three commercial airlines globally to operate the Boeing 717, an aircraft loved for its efficiency and ability to serve smaller regional ports.
QantasLink CEO Rachel Yangoyan reflected on the aircraft’s legacy: “Today marks a significant moment in Australian aviation with the 717’s iconic T-shaped tail taking passengers to Australian skies for the last time. The 717 aircraft have a long history in Qantas and Jetstar’s fleet. From launching Jetstar’s first-ever flights in 2004 to serving major cities, regional towns, and the mining sector in the West for over 20 years, the 717 has been integral to our operations. Our people and customers have loved flying on this aircraft.”
The 717, initially marketed by McDonnell Douglas as the MD-95 before Boeing acquired the company, was often affectionately referred to as the “Mad Dog” due to its power and distinctive engine noise. 156 Boeing 717s were produced, with the last, nicknamed “The Tassie Devil,” rolling off the assembly line in 2006 at Boeing’s Long Beach facility in California.
A New Horizon with Airbus A220
QantasLink A220 cabin Economy.
As the final Boeing 717 prepares for permanent retirement in November, QantasLink is embracing the future with its new fleet of Airbus A220 aircraft. These cutting-edge planes form the backbone of the Qantas Group’s fleet renewal program, set to modernize the domestic and regional network over the next decade. So far, four A220s are operational, with the following aircraft, dubbed the “Tasmanian Devil,” scheduled to enter service by the end of this year.
Rachel Yangoyan expressed optimism about this transition: “As we bid farewell to the Boeing 717 in Australia and close this chapter, we are excited about the future of QantasLink jet flying with the A220. The feedback from customers and crew has been overwhelmingly positive, with many appreciating the enhanced inflight experience. The A220 offers almost double the range, lower emissions per seat, and a more comfortable onboard experience, positioning us to deliver the next generation of air travel.”
Key Features of the Airbus A220
The Airbus A220 promises to revolutionize regional travel for QantasLink’s customers. With 29 A220s set to replace the retiring 717 fleet, the aircraft brings many new features designed to enhance passenger comfort and operational efficiency. The A220 can seat 137 passengers, with 10 Business Class seats arranged in a 2-2 configuration and 127 seats in Economy in a 2-3 layout.
Among the most significant improvements is the cabin’s design, featuring the most enormous windows of any single-aisle aircraft, offering passengers a greater sense of space and panoramic views. Passengers will also enjoy fast, free Wi-Fi, the latest Qantas Entertainment App, and integrated personal device holders with USB A and C charging options in both Business and Economy classes. Business Class passengers also benefit from additional wireless charging pads.
Additionally, the A220 offers around 20% more overhead locker space, reducing the strain of carry-on luggage for all passengers. Another highlight is the aircraft’s significantly reduced noise footprint—up to 50% quieter than the Boeing 717—and its impressive 25% reduction in carbon emissions per seat.
Environmental Impact and Fleet Modernization
The shift to the Airbus A220 reflects QantasLink’s commitment to environmental sustainability. The A220’s advanced aerodynamics and fuel-efficient engines significantly reduce carbon emissions, aligning with the airline’s broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. This new fleet is a step forward in enhancing operational efficiency and a critical move in Qantas Group’s drive toward greener aviation solutions.
As QantasLink continues to phase in the A220s, passengers can expect improved flight experiences, whether travelling for business, leisure, or on regional routes connecting Australia’s far-flung communities.
Looking Ahead
With the introduction of the Airbus A220, QantasLink is charting a bold new course for regional aviation. The airline’s focus on fleet modernization is poised to provide passengers with a superior travel experience while meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving industry. As Australia bids farewell to the Boeing 717, the future looks bright with the arrival of these innovative, fuel-efficient aircraft.
For travellers, this transition represents the end of an era and the beginning of a new journey that promises greater comfort, sustainability, and connectivity in the years to come.
Written by: Karuna Johnson
