Qantas A220s to spread their wings internationally

Qantas’ Airbus A220s will be a familiar sight on both sides of the Tasman in the early new year, when the modern single-aisle jet makes its international debut on Brisbane to Wellington hops from February 8.

Boasting 10 business class pews followed by 127 economy seats, the modern A220 delivers a big step up in comfort and amenity from the Embraer E190 and Boeing 737s now plying the route, with new-look seats, a more spacious cabin and larger windows.

Fast and free inflight Wi-Fi will also be available, allowing you to stay connected above the clouds.

Economy on the A220 has a 3-2 configuration.

However, you’ll need to keep a close eye on the flight code, with the A220 initially only featured on up to three flights per week – 737s will handle the remaining two.

The Qantas site shows QF281/QF282 featuring the A220s, while QF195/196 are attached to the 737s, with little consistency on which aircraft you’ll see on any given day. 

Flights lift off every Sunday, Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, departing Brisbane at 8:50am and arriving in Wellington at 3:20pm. The reverse takes wing from Wellington at 4:20pm, with touch down in Brisbane at 5:15pm local time.

Air New Zealand is the Red Roo’s sole competition on the non-stop route, with its daily Airbus A321neo flights.