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Koala Airlines, a new entrant in the Australian aviation market, has confirmed leases for three Boeing 737 MAX aircraft as it prepares to launch operations by 2026. The airline expects to receive its first aircraft by July or August next year and aims to begin flights before the end of 2026.
Bill Astling, Chief Executive Officer of Koala Airlines, told Australian Aviation that the carrier has obtained its Air Operators Certificate. The company plans to expand its fleet gradually, targeting up to 20 aircraft within several years of operation. Astling noted the challenges faced by start-up airlines in acquiring planes when competing with larger carriers but said Koala is working on securing additional aircraft beyond the initial three.
The airline intends to focus on routes with established demand, primarily serving tourists and leisure travelers. Unlike previous start-ups such as Bonza—which targeted unique point-to-point markets—Koala will compete directly with major players like Qantas and Virgin Australia on high-traffic routes between cities such as Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne.
