Story ID: 363
QantasLink Fleet Refurbishment To Include Three E190s
By: Charlotte Bailey
Caption: Acquisition of up to 14 E-Jets complements extensive cabin refurbishments  
Word Count: 281
Qantas has announced plans for a multi-million-dollar upgrade of its regional QantasLink fleet, with wholly-owned subsidiary Network Aviation to benefit from a variety of cabin refurbishments. An initial three of a potential order for 14 Embraer E190s are also set to start arriving by the end of the year, replacing Network Aviation’s aging fleet of Fokker 100s.
Cabin enhancements across Network Aviation’s 28 Airbus A319s and A320s will include installation of airborne connectivity. Passengers will also benefit from new seats equipped with charging ports and portable device holders. The first refurbished aircraft is expected to enter service later this year, with the full program to be completed in early 2027.
Meanwhile, Network Aviation has also secured what Qantas terms its first three “mid-life” Embraer E190s, which will also begin arriving in 2026. The gradual introduction of the E190s will complement Network Aviation’s acquisition of A320s from Jetstar Asia, which ceased operations in July 2025.
Network Aviation’s fleet of more than 35 aircraft typically operates 600 flights per week to 25 destinations across regional Western Australia. 
The aircraft acquisitions form part of the Qantas Group’s broader fleet renewal program, with the first new types arriving in 2023. Deliveries of more than 200 new aircraft are set to continue into the next decade, including the Airbus A350-1000 from late 2026. This will operate direct flights from Sydney to London and New York under Qantas’ Project Sunrise initiative.
Qantas said its investments in both new aircraft and enhanced on-board offerings will “help improve reliability, reduce fuel burn per seat, and create a more consistent experience for millions of Australian travelers.”