SYDNEY- Australian flag carrier Qantas Airways (QF) is expanding its regional flight capacity in South Australia by deploying larger QantasLink Q400 turboprop aircraft across all routes from Adelaide (ADL).
The upgrade marks a significant enhancement in the airline’s service to Port Lincoln, Whyalla, Mount Gambier, and Kangaroo Island.

Qantas Regional Aircraft in Adelaide
The airline’s acquisition of 14 additional Q400 aircraft demonstrates its commitment to strengthening regional connectivity. South Australia will host three Q400s as part of this fleet expansion, replacing the aging Q300 aircraft that currently service these routes.
The transition addresses growing travel demands across the region, where Qantas maintains over 50 weekly return flights from Adelaide. These routes serve as vital links for local residents, tourists, and business travelers, particularly those in the resources sector.
The Q400 aircraft offers increased seating capacity compared to the 50-seat Q300 models, which are being phased out of service.
Qantas is enhancing its in-flight experience with a revamped beverage selection. Starting mid-March, passengers aboard QantasLink turboprop flights will have access to eight new regional wines.
South Australian wineries, including Stonehaven, Pioneer Road, and Angove, will contribute six selections to this curated offering, showcasing the region’s renowned wine industry.

Executive Remarks
QantasLink’s deployment of Q400 aircraft marks a transformative moment for regional South Australian aviation, according to CEO Rachel Yangoyan. The upgrade introduces larger aircraft capacity and enhanced flight efficiency across regional routes.
The Q400 aircraft returns to Adelaide’s skies after a decade-long absence, extending its service to new destinations including Mount Gambier and Whyalla. The 74-seat aircraft represents a significant capacity increase for regional travelers.
Yangoyan emphasizes the strategic importance of community investment alongside service improvements. The airline’s decision to feature six South Australian wines in its refreshed beverage service will showcase local products to over 3.5 million annual passengers, boosting regional tourism and economic growth.
Adelaide Airport Managing Director Brenton Cox underscores the vital role of regional flights in connecting rural communities. The upgraded aircraft service enhances essential travel options for work commitments, medical appointments, and family visits while strengthening the tourism sector.
South Australian Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison views this development as a catalyst for regional tourism growth. The enhanced aircraft capacity and reduced travel times align with the state’s strategy to expand its visitor economy and highlight South Australia’s diverse attractions.
Qantas maintains a substantial economic presence in South Australia, supporting over 870 jobs. The airline’s freight division processes approximately 10 million kilograms of cargo through South Australian facilities, demonstrating its integral role in the state’s transportation infrastructure.

Q400 Flight Routes
QantasLink launches its inaugural Q400 service with strategic flight timings across South Australian regional routes.
The Adelaide to Mount Gambier service departs at 12:40 PM, reaching its destination at 1:40 PM. Passengers traveling to Port Lincoln can board at 12:55 PM, arriving at 1:50 PM.
The Kangaroo Island route operates with a 4:15 PM departure, landing at 4:55 PM, while the Whyalla service takes off at 4:20 PM, touching down at 5:15 PM.
The airline’s enhanced beverage service showcases premier South Australian wines, featuring selections from distinguished wine regions. The Langhorne Creek Region contributes Pioneer Road’s Pinot Grigio and Cabernet Sauvignon, while the Limestone Coast presents Stonehaven’s Riesling.
Angove winery, spanning Renmark and McLaren Vale, offers both Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz Cabernet varieties. McLaren Vale’s Hardys rounds out the selection with their signature Shiraz.
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Qantas Airways Fleet in 2025
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