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QantasLink will overhaul its WA operations with the addition of three Embraer E190 aircraft and cabin upgrades for its existing A320 and A319 fleet.
The three mid-life E190s, part of an order of 14 to replace Network’s ageing Fokker 100 fleet, will arrive from the end of this year, while the 28 A320s and A319s will be fitted with on-board Wi-Fi; the A320s will also get new seats with USB-A and C charging ports and device holders.
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According to QantasLink, the first refurbished A320 will enter service later this year, with the full cabin overhaul program to be completed in early 2027.
“This multi-million-dollar investment reinforces our long-term commitment to serving the critical resources sector in Western Australia and connecting regional communities across the state,” said QantasLink CEO Mark Dal Pra.
“Not only will it significantly enhance the travel experience for our customers, it will also help us improve reliability and efficiency across our WA network.
“It also builds on Qantas’ commitment to developing Perth as its Western Hub, including recent investments in new training facilities, infrastructure upgrades at Perth Airport and the launch of domestic and international routes to destinations including Newcastle, Hobart, Johannesburg and Auckland.”
The arrival of the first three E190s comes after Network replaced several Fokkers with A320s repurposed from Jetstar Asia, which was shuttered last year.
The A320s and E190s will offer improved reliability and fuel efficiency over the F100s, in both regular passenger transport and FIFO operations. Major client Fortescue Metals has welcomed the change, with CEO Dino Otranto saying in June 2025 that the new planes will help bolster its operations.
“With more than 50 flights a week out of Perth, we’re on track for around 640,000 passenger movements this financial year – a clear reflection of how vital our partnership with Qantas and Network Aviation is to keeping our operations running efficiently,” he said.
“This new fleet will bring more comfort and reliability for our people, and that makes a real difference when you’re flying in and out as frequently as we do.”
QantasLink has 15 Fokker 100s in its fleet, with an average age of over 30 years. Rival Virgin Australia Regional Airlines (VARA) has also moved to replace its Fokker 100s, though VARA has opted for brand-new E190-E2s; it currently has two of a planned eight E2s in its fleet.
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