QantasLink picks E190s to replace F100 fleet
June 27, 2025
Qantas has revealed the aircraft type that will replace its ageing Fokker F100 fleet used to connect remote communities in rural Western Australia.
The group’s regional arm, QantasLink, said on Thursday that it had chosen the Embraer 190 as successor to the Dutch-designed regional jet for operations out of Perth.
QantasLink opts for second-hand E190s
QantasLink plans to acquire up to 14 E190 aircraft. The carrier says it is looking at “mid-life” airframes with the first to arrive in the latter part of next year.
“Network Aviation, which operates charter and FIFO services across Western Australia as well as regular passenger flights, will benefit from the enhanced fuel efficiency, reliability and improved passenger comfort that the E190 platform provides. E190s are a popular aircraft with regional airlines globally,” the airline said in a statement.
The Embraer deal comes after Qantas recently announced Network Aviation would receive four Airbus A320 aircraft this year from the soon-to-close Jetstar Asia.
This will allow for the earlier retirement of four of the group’s F100 aircraft.
Separately, Qantas will take delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR later this month, making it the first airline in Asia Pacific to operate the extra long-range narrowbody aircraft type.
While QantasLink’s decision to add Embraer E190s to its fleet will not result in any new orders for the Brazilian planemaker, it will deliver a morale boost after its recent loss to Airbus in the LOT Polish Airlines narrowbody selection.
The deal also reinforces Embraer’s position in the regional jet market and expands its footprint in the Asia-Pacific region.
‘Significant investment in the future of our regional aviation capabilities’
QantasLink Chief Executive Officer Rachel Yangoyan said: “This fleet renewal represents a significant investment in the future of our regional aviation capabilities, and our commitment to serving the critical resources sector and regional communities in Western Australia.
“The E190 is a proven platform that operates across Australia today and will deliver improved operational efficiency and reliability, while also creating opportunities for our people in the West.”
Fortescue Metals Chief Executive Officer Dino Otranto said: “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.
“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.”
