QantasLink to replace F100s with E190s in major WA fleet renewal

QantasLink has selected the Embraer 190 (E190) as the preferred aircraft type for a significant fleet renewal at its Western Australia-based regional carrier, Network Aviation. The plan involves retiring up to 14 ageing Fokker F100 (F100) aircraft and replacing them with mid-life E190s, with the first deliveries expected towards the end of 2026.

Network Aviation, which provides fly-in fly-out (FIFO) and charter services, along with scheduled passenger flights across Western Australia, will benefit from the E190's enhanced fuel efficiency, improved operational reliability, and superior passenger comfort. The E190 is a widely used aircraft in regional aviation globally and aligns with QantasLink's goals of modernising its fleet while maintaining strong performance in demanding operating environments.

In addition to the planned E190s, Network Aviation will also receive four Airbus A320 aircraft transferred from Jetstar Asia. These A320s will begin entering service before the end of 2025 and will enable the earlier retirement of four F100s. The resulting accelerated depreciation charge has been confirmed and will be excluded from underlying earnings. Despite these changes, Qantas has reiterated that its FY26 capital expenditure guidance remains unchanged at between AU$4.1 billion and AU$4.3 billion.

The replacement of the F100s is part of Qantas Group's broader fleet renewal strategy. Separately, Qantas will soon become the first airline in the Asia Pacific region to operate the Airbus A321XLR, with delivery of the first aircraft expected later this month.

QantasLink plans to share further updates on the E190 acquisition, including specific sourcing and delivery details, as procurement discussions advance.