QantasLink will upgrade its Western Australia operations with new Embraer E190 aircraft and cabin refurbishments for its A320 and A319 fleet, reports Australian Aviation.

Three mid-life E190s will arrive from the end of this year as part of a 14-plane order to replace Network Aviation's ageing Fokker 100s. Meanwhile, 28 A320s and A319s will be fitted with wi-fi, while A320s will gain new seats with USB-A and C charging ports and device holders.

The first refurbished A320 is due to enter service later this year, with the full programme to be completed by early 2027. QantasLink chief executive Mark Dal Pra said the investment reinforces the airline's commitment to the resources sector and regional communities in Western Australia.

The E190s follow the replacement of several Fokkers with A320s repurposed from Jetstar Asia, which closed last year. The new aircraft promise greater reliability and fuel efficiency for both passenger and fly-in fly-out services.

Fortescue Metals, a major client, welcomed the move, noting more than 50 weekly flights from Perth and 640,000 passenger movements expected this financial year. Chief executive Dino Otranto said the new fleet will improve comfort and reliability for workers.

QantasLink still operates 15 Fokker 100s, averaging over 30 years old. Rival Virgin Australia Regional Airlines is also phasing out its Fokker fleet, opting instead for brand-new E190-E2s, with two of a planned eight already in service.