As part of the Qantas Group’s Australian domestic fleet renewal program, 29 new Airbus A220s are being introduced. I’m on one of these, though the A220 is not on all QantasLink services between Melbourne and Hobart. In Hobart, the line is long and tedious to get through security and the air side is busy, cramped and crowded.
It’s set to improve by 2030 with a $200 million redevelopment. I’m not privy to the Hobart lounge, but Qantas has a new one set to open in 2027. QantasLink offers the same baggage allowance as Qantas: for business as well as loyalty members (with some variations according to tiers), two checked pieces up to 32 kilograms each.
Economy is one piece up to 23 kilograms. Carry-on is the same across classes: one standard piece up to 10 kilograms or two small pieces totalling up to 14 kilograms, plus one personal item such as a handbag or laptop bag. Qantas Frequent Flyer Qantas’s A220-300 interior is designed by long-time collaborator, David Caon.
Of 137 seats, 10 are in business in a 2-2 layout. They’re upholstered in a soft aubergine leather, have a 37 inches (94 centimetres) pitch and are 24 inches (61 centimetres) wide with an adjustable headrest, calf rest and footrest. In the centre console, there’s a wireless charging pad.
Dual USB ports, a tablet shelf and a tablet holder built into the table, a drink shelf, a bottle holder, a coat hook and a nifty touch-light in the back of the seat in front make this seat an absolute pleasure. Economy is.