Hobart Airport has welcomed the first-ever Qantas Airbus A220 to Tasmania, an aircraft that will be seen in the state more and more as the airline gradually replaces its ageing Boeing 717s.
The sleek new aircraft offers lower emissions, less noise and improved passenger comfort for travellers.
The QantasLink plane is part of a fleet that will operate up to 25 flights a week between Melbourne and Hobart and Launceston and Melbourne in the near future.
“The Airbus A220 is more efficient than its predecessors, with an ultra-modern cabin design including free Wi-Fi,” Carter said.
“These new aircraft will generate 25% fewer emissions per seat and 50% less noise than the aircraft they replace.”
Dozens of aviation enthusiasts gathered at the airport to witness the arrival of the aircraft, adorned with a special ‘Minyma Kutjara Tjukurpa’ livery, touch down as flight QF1291 from Melbourne on Monday.
The new planes come as the airport roles out a $300 million investment project, which includes upgrades to the runway for more international flights and a terminal expansion.
“Airport travellers would have noticed that the terminal redevelopment is really starting to hit its straps now and it won’t be long before the runway strengthening project also gets underway,” Carter said.
