Qantas prepares to farewell the Boeing 717 from their fleet

After over two decades of service, Qantas is retiring its Boeing 717 fleet as part of a broader fleet renewal initiative. The beloved aircraft, which has been a cornerstone of QantasLink’s regional and domestic routes since 2002, will be replaced by the more modern and fuel-efficient Airbus A220.

QantasLink Boeing 717 landing at Sydney | Photo by: finn_mcguire_photography

The Boeing 717, first introduced into the QantasLink fleet in 2002, quickly became a workhorse for the airline’s domestic operations. Originally designed as a successor to the DC-9 family, the 717 offered a balance of fuel efficiency and passenger comfort, making it ideal for QantasLink’s shorter, regional routes.

With a seating capacity of up to 125 passengers, the twin-engine, narrow-body aircraft provided reliable service across Australia’s vast and often remote regions. The 717 has been a familiar sight in airports from major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, to more isolated locations such as Hobart and Alice Springs.

For years, the aircraft earned a reputation for its performance on challenging routes, helping QantasLink maintain its position as Australia’s premier regional airline. Its compact size, combined with strong operational performance, allowed it to operate in airports with shorter runways and more difficult terrain.

QantasLink Boeing 717 departing Sydney | Photo by: finn_mcguire_photography

As part of its modernization plan, Qantas will introduce the Airbus A220, a next-generation aircraft offering improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and greater passenger comfort. This transition aligns with Qantas’ sustainability goals and its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

While the Boeing 717’s retirement marks the end of an era, Qantas plans to celebrate its legacy with a series of farewell flights, allowing fans and employees to bid a final goodbye to the aircraft that served Australia’s regional skies for over 20 years.