QantasLink to upgrade B717 aircraft

Qantas regional offshoot QantasLink is set to announce a major upgrade to the cabins on its 13-strong Boeing 717 jet fleet.

The revamp will see the reconfigured aircraft expand from the current 115-seat capacity to 125, in a single class economy arrangement.

The new seats will offer “increased levels of comfort” according to the carrier, including a top-mounted magazine box to maximise legroom, an additional seat pocket ideal for the storage of personal electronic devices, an adjustable headrest and a sliding tray-table.

A QF spokesperson confirmed the move, telling TD the upgrade would also include an interior colour scheme “consistent with Qantas’ contemporary styling”.

“The installation of the new seats, combined with a reconfiguration of storage space, has enabled QantasLink to increase capacity on board the B717s and provide, at the same time, an enhanced customer experience,” she said.

The first of the reconfigured aircraft is set to enter service from mid-November this year.

More information in Travel Daily as it comes to hand.