QantasLink begins fleet renewal with arrival of first Embraer E190

QantasLink has commenced a fleet renewal program for its Western Australian resources charter operations with the arrival of its first Embraer E190 in Perth. The 100-seat jet, VH-E9A, completed a 20-hour ferry flight from Norwich, United Kingdom, via several international stops including Bulgaria, Tajikistan, India, and Malaysia.

The E190 fleet, which will include up to 14 mid-life aircraft, is intended to replace the airline’s aging Fokker 100 fleet used for transporting fly-in, fly-out workers to remote mining sites. The new aircraft are expected to offer improved fuel efficiency, reliability, and enhanced passenger amenities such as onboard Wi-Fi, USB charging, and the introduction of Qantas Economy Plus.

Subject to regulatory approval, the first E190 is scheduled to enter commercial service in January 2027. The rollout includes significant staff development, with plans to provide extensive training for pilots, crew, and engineers to operate and maintain the new fleet.