Airlines

First Qantas group A220 on Assembly line as Australians invited to name new fleet

Construction of the first Airbus A220 aircraft for the Qantas Group has begun, marking a significant turning point for the company as its fleet renewal programme picks up speed.

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The centre and rear fuselages, as well as other significant airframe parts, are being assembled at Airbus’ production site in Mirabel, Canada, and the first of the 29 aircraft is anticipated to land in Australia by the end of the year. The aircraft will go through regulatory approvals, airport readiness checks, and training exercises before it enters the QantasLink fleet in early 2024 as the first A220 to be operated in Australia. Additionally, QantasLink has started training its pilots to fly the new planes.

The Boeing 717 fleet that runs routes throughout Australia will progressively be replaced with the new generation A220 aircraft. Between Melbourne and Canberra, the first QantasLink A220 will fly, with more aircraft being deployed to other regional and domestic network locations. The A220 is anticipated to open up new domestic and short-haul international routes when more aircraft are added to the fleet since it has a range that is double that of the 717.

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The Qantas Group is asking Australians to help name its new A220 fleet, based on the idea of “native wildlife,” now that construction is in full swing. Australians can submit up to six names starting today via a special page on qantas.com. Before the official names are released, a shortlist will be made public so that the public can vote on their preferences.

To suggest names for the new QantasLink A220 fleet, visit qantas.com/a220name by 8 August 2023.

Airlines

British Airways Unveils Its Brand-New First Class Cabin for the Airbus A380

British Airways has introduced its brand-new First Class seat, blending sleek design with expert British craftsmanship. Reflecting modern British luxury travel, this new cabin is part of the airline’s Airbus A380 retrofit plans, set to take flight in mid-2026.

The updated First Class cabin has been crafted to feel like a modern luxury hotel in the sky, complete with cozy touches and thoughtful British details.

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Designed by top experts from across Great Britain and Ireland—including London, Glasgow, West Yorkshire, Kilkeel, and Dublin—the seat reflects the best of British design and quality.

Features and Comforts
The new First Class seat is ultra-wide at 36.5 inches, with a bed length of 79 inches for ultimate comfort. It includes:

A multi-purpose ottoman and stowable table.
A 32-inch 4K TV screen.
Adjustable mood lighting with modes like “relax,” “dine,” and “cinema.”
A cocooned 60-inch curved wall for privacy while maintaining a spacious feel.

Passengers traveling together can enjoy a shared experience with a sliding divider that creates a lounge-like space. The stowable tables also allow for “buddy dining,” where two people can dine together.

The cabin’s flowing curves, inspired by the iconic Concorde wings, create a welcoming and stylish environment. Additionally, passengers can now wheel their luggage directly into their personal storage space, making settling in easier.

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British Airways carefully considered customer feedback when designing this cabin. The seat includes practical storage and features like a fully rectangular bed for home-like comfort. Every detail, from usability to elegance, has been designed to enhance the travel experience.

British Airways is proud to be the only UK-based European airline offering a First Class product across the Atlantic. british airways premium economy and First Class travelers enjoy exclusive perks such as stylish seats, access to luxury lounges, fast-track security, and the First Wing at Heathrow. The airline ensures a premium experience from booking to landing.

This cabin upgrade is part of British Airways’ £7 billion investment in improving customer experiences. The airline has already introduced over 120 initiatives, including new short-haul seats, free onboard Wi-Fi messaging, and refreshed lounges worldwide.