QantasLink plans major fleet overhaul with new Embraer aircraft

While these additional E190s have not yet been procured as Qantas explores sourcing options, they remain the preferred choice to replace the aging Fokkers. The current arrangement sees Alliance Airlines flying existing Embraers; however, the upcoming batch of E190s and A320s will be integrated into Network Aviation's operations.

Both aircraft types offer similar seating capacities but differ in configuration: the Fokker 100 has five-abreast seating while the E190 offers a four-abreast layout. The specific configuration for Network Aviation’s incoming planes remains undisclosed; however, those flown by Alliance Airlines include a business-class section—an upgrade from the all-economy layout of the Fokker 100.

The average age of the Fokker 100 fleet is around 32 years old, with some models reaching up to 35 years in service. Developed in the '80s as an updated version of the F28 model and predating other popular models like Airbus A320 and Boeing's next-generation series, only about half were ever built compared to competitors due to lower demand and efficiency issues over time.

Despite their historical significance and appeal among aviation enthusiasts for their uniqueness, replacing them with more modern Embraers should enhance overall passenger experience thanks largely due absence middle seats larger windows possible inclusion business class cabins which would improve upon existing all-economy configurations found within retiring Dutch-built jets

In December last year saw National Jet Systems—a key player within broader umbrella receive first deliveries from order placed towards end previous calendar year encompassing total number nearing thirty units latest generation narrow-body twin-engine commercial airliners manufactured by European aerospace giant intended supplement retirements including phased-out Boeing model seven-one-seven meanwhile long-term goal involves streamlining operations across regional network utilizing primarily select few remaining legacy designs supplemented newer acquisitions such aforementioned alongside others drawn predominantly secondary market supply channels except where noted otherwise case newly introduced airbus variant

Furthermore aside mentioned pending orders anticipated arrivals significant changes widebody sector anticipated future notably involve transition away reliance heavily outdated fleets toward more advanced technologically capable platforms capable meeting growing demands associated increasing global travel requirements necessitating greater emphasis placed ensuring sustainability operational efficiencies throughout various facets corporate structure ongoing pursuit continuous improvement industry-leading standards customer satisfaction levels ultimately enhancing brand reputation profitability metrics alike crucial maintaining competitive edge dynamic evolving marketplace conditions moving forward into foreseeable future