Jake Nelson

Skytrans will fly Dash 8 Q200s from Sydney to Lord Howe starting in February 2026 as QantasLink phases out its own Q200s, the only aircraft in the Qantas fleet capable of landing on the island’s short runway.

Flight QF1511 from Sydney touched down in Canberra at 6:08pm on Saturday aboard the 20-year-old aircraft VH-YQS. QantasLink was one of the world’s last three commercial operators of the 717, which it has now phased out in favour of its new Airbus A220-300 fleet.

The revelation has presented a dilemma for Rex’s administrator as it tries to save the airline on the grounds that its flights are “essential” regional services. It also suggests airlines and businesses could be waiting for Rex to be formally wound up before making a move. 

The news is likely to have significant ramifications for long-haul travel into Australia, given the tie-up with Virgin is a major incentive for customers to book travel with Etihad. Abu Dhabi itself offers onward connections to more than 130 destinations.

Starting in May 2025 for the peak season, the low-cost carrier will add a fifth weekly flight on Saturdays from Sydney to the Pacific destination, on a route served by its A321neo LR (NEO) fleet.

Slated to launch next year, the academy – billed as the first of its kind in Australia – will be open both online and on RMIT’s campus, and will include areas such as safety culture, risk management, and human safety factors such as sleep and fatigue.