Airbus Unveils QantasLink’s Newest Star QantasLink’s latest Airbus A220 has just made a grand appearance, showcasing a striking Aboriginal paint scheme. This special aircraft, part of the renowned Flying Art Series, is more than just a mode of transport; it’s a flying canvas, celebrating Indigenous Australian culture. Named after the artwork Minyma Kutjara Tjukurpa – The Two Sisters Creation Story, the aircraft is a tribute to the Dreaming story of two sisters journeying across remote Australia.
A Modern Fleet for Tomorrow’s Travel
The Airbus A220, the first of 29 aircraft to be added to QantasLink’s domestic fleet renewal program, lies at the heart of this strategic initiative. This comprehensive plan not only involves the introduction of new planes but also signifies a substantial upgrade for the airline. As the Boeing 717s are gradually replaced by the A220, passengers can look forward to enjoying double the range and an expansion in possibilities for both domestic and short-haul international routes. The prospect of flying directly to previously inaccessible destinations without any stopovers promises enhanced convenience for travelers.
The past year has been busy for the Qantas Group. This A220 marks the twelfth aircraft delivered in the last 12 months, joining others like the eight Airbus A321LR for Jetstar and three Boeing 787 Dreamliners for Qantas International. What’s more, the next year promises even more growth, with multiple aircraft types including the Airbus A321XLR on the horizon for Qantas Domestic. These new aircraft are not just about expanding the fleet; they’re about a greener, quieter flying experience with significantly reduced fuel usage and emissions.
The Art of Flying
The Flying Art Series is a Qantas tradition dating back to 1994, starting with a Boeing 747 named Wunala Dreaming. Created in collaboration with leading Indigenous Australian design agency Balarinji, these liveries are a unique fusion of aviation and Indigenous art. For this A220, senior Pitjantjatjara artist Maringka Baker’s work was chosen, requiring around 100 painters and 130 stencils to replicate the intricate design, making it one of the most complex liveries ever completed by Airbus.
Qantas Group CEO, Vanessa Hudson, is enthusiastic about the A220’s potential to revolutionize domestic and regional travel. “These aircraft have the potential to change the way our customers travel across the country, with the ability to connect any two cities or towns in Australia,” she explains. This isn’t just about new aircraft; it’s about new opportunities for passengers and Qantas staff, promising faster, more convenient travel, and exciting possibilities for holidaymakers.
Before joining the QantasLink fleet and starting its journey between Melbourne and Canberra, the A220 (registration VH-X4A) will undergo post-production test flights and be equipped with Qantas-specific gear. With six more A220s expected by mid-2025, this is just the beginning of a new chapter in QantasLink’s story.
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