Qantas has big news for travelers in South Australia! According to a recent statement by QantasLink CEO Rachel Yangoyan, the airline is reintroducing the 74-seat Q400 turboprop aircraft to Adelaide after a 10-year hiatus. This time around, the larger aircraft will also serve new destinations such as Mount Gambier and Whyalla. The decision comes as part of Qantas' plan to enhance regional connectivity by investing in 14 additional Q400s for its fleet. With Port Lincoln, Whyalla, Mount Gambier, and Kangaroo Island on the itinerary, the move is sure to make exploring regional Australia easier for passengers.

Reactions to the announcement have been positive, with South Australian Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison hailing the move as an exciting development for the region's connectivity and tourism sector. The upgrade to faster and larger aircraft is expected to not only reduce travel times but also boost capacity, welcoming more visitors to discover South Australia's hidden gems.

In addition to the aircraft upgrade, Qantas is also stepping up its in-flight experience by introducing eight new regional wines on all QantasLink turboprop flights starting in mid-March 2025. Six of these wines will be sourced from renowned South Australian wineries, including Stonehaven, Pioneer Road, and Angove, offering passengers a taste of the region's best flavors.

The transition to the Q400 aircraft marks a significant milestone for Qantas in South Australia, where the airline supports over 870 jobs. Furthermore, Qantas Freight plays a crucial role in the region, handling around 10 million kilograms of freight annually. With these developments on the horizon, Qantas continues its commitment to enhancing travel experiences and fostering economic growth in South Australia. Exciting times lie ahead for travelers exploring the beauty of the region!