QF A220 Arrivals

[Greg Hyde]

If you want to name a A220 then hers your chance:

https://www.travelweekly.com.au/article/koala-mckoala-face-qantas-on-the-hunt-for-names-as-new-a220-fleet-hits-assembly-line/

Direct link to contest

https://www.qantas.com/au/en/promotions/name-qantas-a220.html

[Ryan K]

The Tassie Turbo Chook, for sure!

[Rowan McKeever]

I've nothing useful to add on this but can I just say how excited I am that we've reached the point where a 'QF A220 Arrivals' thread isn't out of place!

:D

[Zac M]

I believe the first A220 will be VH-X4A

[Greg Hyde]

From todays QF announcement

"The Qantas Group is on track to receive the first two QantasLink A220 aircraft by the end of this calendar year; subsequent deliveries are expected to be delayed by up to four months as a result of supply chain disruption."

Two this year and wait until P&W sort out their engine problems.

The Good, Bad, & Ugly: The Global Airbus A220 Fleet Amid PW Engine Woes

https://simpleflying.com/global-airbus-a220-fleet-status-may-2023/

[James Smith]

From another forum the first five QANTAS A220-300 registrations will be VH-4XA, 4XB, 4XC, 4XD, 4XE.

[C Patters]

Have any delivery dates been released for the first 2 x A220-300's?

[Zac M]

From another forum the first five QANTAS A220-300 registrations will be VH-4XA, 4XB, 4XC, 4XD, 4XE.

Should be X4A, X4B, etc

[James Smith]

Have any delivery dates been released for the first 2 x A220-300's?

The first A220-300 (MSN 55253) was scheduled to be delivered in November this year but is still in production and hasn't made an appearance out of the factory in Montreal. From roll out to delivery can take up to three months or longer, so it looks as though it will not be delivered until early 2024.

Six are due for delivery by the end of 2024.

[Greg Hyde]

Based on the MSN's under test. QF's A220 should be rolled out to commence flight test in the near future.

Also the first QF A220 may be delivered by the end of November but not in service.

Does the A220 appear on any forward booking systems yet ?

[Rowan McKeever]

Based on the MSN's under test. QF's A220 should be rolled out to commence flight test in the near future.

Also the first QF A220 may be delivered by the end of November but not in service.

Does the A220 appear on any forward booking systems yet ?

I haven't come across it in the booking system or online timetable. I believe the in service date is 'early 2024' so you're no doubt correct re delivery late November or early December with famil/training and possibly a PR tour to follow.

[MarkR]

The first A220-300 (MSN 55253) was scheduled to be delivered in November this year but is still in production and hasn't made an appearance out of the factory in Montreal. From roll out to delivery can take up to three months or longer, so it looks as though it will not be delivered until early 2024.

MSN is 55236, line number is 55253, it’s interesting how all the production lists have the msn as the line number

[Greg Hyde]

First Qantas A220 due for delivery within weeks

https://www.executivetraveller.com/news/qantas-a220-first-delivery

[Phillippe M]

First Qantas A220 due for delivery within weeks

https://www.executivetraveller.com/news/qantas-a220-first-delivery

That is the same reused article that was written back in 2022, with just a new heading and a couple of extra words in there.

[MarkR]

That is the same reused article that was written back in 2022, with just a new heading and a couple of extra words in there.

Yep, and let’s not mention the issues facing most A220 operators with the engines

[Joseph Saragozza.]

QantasLink first A220, VH-X4A will wear a new flyingart livery as shown below.
Artwork named Minyma Kutjara Tjukurpa

https://www.executivetraveller.com/news/qantas-a220-flying-art-livery

[James Smith]

A very nice livery. The first time that I can recall that the tail has been in any other colour than red. The other special liveries have left most of the tail red with the white kangaroo.

[Greg Hyde]

"Green" is the story they will be pushing

[Greg Hyde]

From Scramble

Qantas unveils special livery for 1st A220

Qantas has decided to mark the moment of the introduction of the Airbus A220 with a special livery. Its first A220-300, currently registered C-FPGP (55253), is almost ready for delivery and will become VH-X4A. The green livery is designed by Balarinji and is part of the Flying Art-series of the Qantas that started with the "Wunala Dreaming" Boeing B747-400.

In total, Qantas has ordered 29 A220-300s which the airline will use to replace its thirteen Boeing B717s and eighteen Fokker 100s. They will be operated under the QantasLink-brand and operated by fully-owned subsidiary National Jet Systems. The A220 will feature 137 seats, ten business class and the rest economy seats.

QantasLink will use the type to connect smaller Australian cities with the large Qantas-bases at Melbourne and Sydney. The first commercial service will be between Melbourne and Canberra and is set to launch in January 2024.

[Greg Hyde]

From QF

FIRST QANTASLINK A220 ROLLS OUT OF PAINTSHOP AS FLEET RENEWAL RAMPS UP
Mirabel, Canada | Published on 15th November 2023 at 6:00


QantasLink’s first brand new Airbus A220 aircraft has rolled out of the paintshop at Airbus’ facility in Mirabel, Canada, marking a significant milestone in the Qantas Group’s fleet renewal program.

The aircraft, which is set to arrive in Australia before the end of the year, is the first of 29 A220s that will be delivered to the Group as part of its domestic fleet renewal program to replace and grow its narrowbody fleet.

The next-generation QantasLink A220s will gradually replace the Boeing 717s currently operating flights across Australia. With double the range of the 717, the A220 is expected to open up new domestic and short-haul international routes as more aircraft
enter the fleet.

This will be the twelfth new aircraft delivered to the Group in the past 12 months, including eight Airbus A321LR aircraft for Jetstar and three Boeing 787 Dreamliners for Qantas International. More deliveries of multiple aircraft types are expected in the next 12 months, including the first Airbus A321XLR for Qantas Domestic. All burn significantly less fuel, generate fewer emissions and are quieter than the older aircraft they replace.

Over the past six months, this first QantasLink A220 aircraft has come together at the Mirabel facility, with key components produced in other facilities around the world, including wings from the United Kingdom.

The aircraft spent two weeks in the paintshop where a striking Aboriginal paint scheme was applied, making this aircraft the sixth to join the national carrier’s longstanding Flying Art Series.
The Qantas Flying Art Series was launched in 1994 with the unveiling of the first Indigenous livery aircraft, a Boeing 747 jumbo jet named Wunala Dreaming. Leading Indigenous Australian design agency, Balarinji, has worked with Qantas to create the fuselage design for all of the Flying Art Series liveries, in collaboration with First Nations artists and their families.
The latest Flying Art Series livery features the artwork of senior Pitjantjatjara artist Maringka Baker and tells the Dreaming story of two sisters who traverse remote Australia together, covering vast distances to find their way home. The aircraft is named after the artwork Minyma Kutjara Tjukurpa – The Two Sisters Creation Story.

Around 100 painters were involved in completing the livery, with the Airbus teams working with 130 stencils to replicate the detailed designs. It features over 20,000 dots and is the most complex livery Airbus has ever completed for this aircraft type.
Qantas Group CEO, Vanessa Hudson, said the QantasLink A220s would be a game changer for domestic and regional travel.

https://www.qantasnewsroom.com.au/media-releases/first-qantaslink-a220-rolls-out-of-paintshop-as-fleet-renewal-ramps-up/

The a/c is named after the artist(s) Minyma Kutjara Tjukurpa and is painted in QF red on the nose

[James Smith]

A220-300 VH-X4A has had engine runs and taxi checks at YMX on 22/11 and 24/11/23.

[James Smith]

A220-300 VH-X4A has had further taxi checks and a rejected take off at YMX on 29/11/23. Hopefully, its first flight is imminent.

[James Smith]

A220-300 VH-X4A is currently conducting its first flight from YMX, 30/11/23 as ABK353/C-FPGP.

[Greg Hyde]

First flight completed with 02:32 flying as C-FPGP

[James Smith]

A220-300 VH-X4A has just completed its second flight from YMX, on 1/12/23 as ABK353/C-FPGP. Total flight time was 2 hours 16 minutes which is over 5 hours of flight testing in two days.

[Greg Hyde]

Images of first flight

https://twitter.com/Qantas/status/1730400768539385894

[James Smith]

A220-300 VH-X4A has now completed its third flight of 1 hour 7 minutes from YMX, on 5/12/23 as ABK353/C-FPGP.

[Greg Hyde]

A220-300 VH-X4A has now completed its fourth flight of 3 hour 49 minutes from YMX, on 10/12/23 as ABK353/C-FPGP.

[James Smith]

A220-300 VH-X4A has completed its fourth flight of 2 hours 32 minutes from YMX, on 10/12/23 as ABK353/C-FPGP. Total flight time is now 8 hours 46 minutes.

[Ben L]

X4A was added to the CASA registry on 12th December in preparation for delivery.

[Greg Hyde]

X4A was added to the CASA registry on 12th December in preparation for delivery.

thanks Ben


VH-X4A
Updated 13 December 2023
Aircraft manufacturer:
AIRBUS CANADA LIMITED PARTNERSHIP
Aircraft model:
BD-500-1A11
Registration holder:
QANTAS AIRWAYS LIMITED
10 Bourke Rd
MASCOT NSW 2020
Australia
Registered operator:
NATIONAL JET SYSTEMS PTY LTD
A QANTAS Group Airline PO Box 99
Export Park South Australia 5950
Australia
Serial:
55253
Registration type:
Full Registration
Date first registered:
12 December 2023
Registration holder commencement date:
12 December 2023
Registered operator commencement date:
12 December 2023
Country of manufacture:
Canada
Year of manufacture:
2023
Maximum takeoff weight:
70896.00
Engine manufacturer:
PRATT & WHITNEY
Engine type:
Turbofan
Number of engines:
2
Engine model:
PW1524G-3
Airframe:
Power Driven Aeroplane
Propellor model:
NOT APPLICABLE
Propellor manufacturer:
AIRCRAFT NOT FITTED WITH PROPELLER
Fuel type:
Kerosene

Mark you had better get onto CASA they are using the WRONG serial number.

[Brenden S]

Someone at NJS would have entered that serial number in.

[Ben L]

MSN is 55236, line number is 55253, it’s interesting how all the production lists have the msn as the line number

Out of interest, I checked the last dozen or so deliveries to USA based airlines (Delta, Breeze, Jet Blue). The serial numbers from the FAA all correlate to the online production lists.

[Rowan McKeever]

I've also checked several others and can't see any other A220 with a serial number that doesn't match the various online sources. The one I tried to check but couldn't was, ironically, 55236 which should be LZ-LON at Bulgaria Air.

I'm also not convinced that Bombardier, let alone Airbus, would have line numbers which so closely resemble MSNs, given the two usually have very different numerical sequences.

As Brenden says, someone at NJS/Qantas would have entered that number and I'd add that it will need to ultimately match the aircraft's placard and papers.

[MarkR]

I've also checked several others and can't see any other A220 with a serial number that doesn't match the various online sources. The one I tried to check but couldn't was, ironically, 55236 which should be LZ-LON at Bulgaria Air.

I'm also not convinced that Bombardier, let alone Airbus, would have line numbers which so closely resemble MSNs, given the two usually have very different numerical sequences.

As Brenden says, someone at NJS/Qantas would have entered that number and I'd add that it will need to ultimately match the aircraft's placard and papers.

Maybe they are taking line numbers as MSNs in this case, seems to be what’s happening, interesting.

[MarkR]

CH aviation noted in their database update:

“ Aircraft manufacturers such as Boeing utilise both MSN and Line Number for aircraft serial numbers, while Airbus solely uses Construction Number (C/N). In our database, we showcased a blank value wherever we had a case of the OEM using only C/N. This is why we decided to duplicate the C/N into the MSN column for OEMs that do not use MSN to ensure our data is consistent with industry standards.”

[Greg Hyde]

Looks like the first 5 will be -300series

2279

[MarkR]

Excited to welcome our first QantasLink A220, Minyama Kutjara Tjukurpa, to the family, with
@Airbus
officially handing over the keys to our newest aircraft.

This weekend the aircraft will take-off on a four-leg ferry flight operating as QF6075 from Mirabel-Vancouver-Honolulu and then QF6076 from Fiji (Nadi), and is scheduled to touch down in Sydney next week.

https://twitter.com/Qantas/status/1735873225652138306

[Rowan McKeever]

Arrival into SYD is scheduled for 1200 Wednesday 20th from NAN, subject to change obviously.

[Greg Hyde]

Airbus PR

https://www.airbus.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2023-12-qantas-group-takes-delivery-of-its-first-a220

[Rowan McKeever]

X4A is currently well into the final leg of her delivery flight, being around halfway from NAN-SYD. Qantas website shows a current ETA of 1148 local.

[Kent Broadhead]

X4A is currently well into the final leg of her delivery flight, being around halfway from NAN-SYD. Qantas website shows a current ETA of 1148 local.

Tracked via LHI and is currently around halfway between LHI and SYD.

[Adrian B]

On decent into YSSY

[Greg Hyde]

NEXT STEP IN QANTAS GROUP FLEET RENEWAL AS FIRST A220 TOUCHES DOWN
Sydney
Published on 20th December 2023
The first QantasLink Airbus A220 aircraft landed in Sydney today, marking the next phase in the Group’s fleet renewal program.
The aircraft, which features a special indigenous livery, was ferried from Airbus’ facility in Mirabel, Canada, and touched down at midday after stops in Vancouver, Honolulu and Nadi (Fiji).
It is the first of 29 A220s that will be delivered to QantasLink as part of the Group’s domestic fleet renewal program. A further 36 widebody aircraft are also on order.
The A220s have double the range of the Boeing 717’s they replace, giving them the ability to fly non-stop between any two points in Australia. As the first aircraft of their type in Australia, the 137 seat aircraft are expected to open up new (direct) domestic and short-haul international routes as more enter the fleet.
Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson said the A220 would unlock improvements ranging from lower emissions to less noise and better passenger comfort.
“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome this new A220 aircraft, along with the benefits it will bring to our customers and career opportunities for our people,” said Ms Hudson.
“The size and range of the A220 means we can add new direct routes to our network that may not have been commercially viable before.
“More fuel efficient aircraft is one way we’re working towards net zero and the A220 generates around 25 per cent fewer carbon emissions than the previous generation as well as being much quieter.
“This arrival marks the start of the biggest domestic fleet renewal program in Qantas’ history as the Group takes delivery of one new aircraft every three weeks on average over the next few years across.
“On the back of this fleet investment we’re recruiting more pilots, cabin crew and engineers and expect to create around 8500 local jobs over the next decade,” added Ms Hudson.
As the first A220 to be operated in Australia, the aircraft, registered as VH-X4A, will undergo regulatory approvals, airport readiness and crew familiarisation and training activities before it commences flying on the Melbourne-Canberra route in the first quarter of 2024. A dedicated A220 flight simulator for pilot training is based in Melbourne.
The aircraft rolled out of the paint shop last month with a complex livery as the latest addition to Qantas’ longstanding Flying Art Series. Qantas worked with Leading Indigenous Australian design agency, Balarinji, the Copyright Agency and Tjungu Palya Art Centre to reproduce senior Pitjantjatjara artist Maringka Baker’s painting Minyma Kutjara Tjukurpa (Two Sisters Creation Story) for the aircraft.
“The striking livery captured the attention of customers, employees and aviation enthusiasts around the world and we are proud that our first A220 aircraft continues our decades long tradition of showcasing First Nations art and culture through the Flying Art series,” added Ms Hudson.
Minyma Kutjara Tjukurpa is the thirteenth new aircraft delivered to the Group in the past 12 months, including nine Airbus A321LR aircraft for Jetstar and three Boeing 787 Dreamliners for Qantas International. More deliveries of multiple aircraft types are expected in the next 12 months, including the first Airbus A321XLR for Qantas Domestic as the Boeing 737 is steadily retired.
The second A220 is currently on the final assembly line and will be delivered in January 2024. Another five A220s are scheduled to be delivered between January 2024 and mid-2025.
QantasLink Airbus A220 Facts
The QantasLink A220 seats 137 passengers in a two-cabin configuration with 10 Business seats and 127 seats in Economy.
Replacing the Boeing 717, the A220s will mostly connect smaller capital cities like Canberra and Hobart with larger cities like Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.
The A220 has almost double the range of the 717 at over 6,000 kilometres, meaning it can fly between any city in Australia. The aircraft burns 25 per cent less fuel per seat and CO2 compared to previous generation aircraft.
The public was invited to help name the new A220 fleet after Australian native wildlife. (The first aircraft, as part of the Flying Art Series, is an exception to the A220 naming convention).

https://www.qantasnewsroom.com.au/media-releases/next-step-in-qantas-group-fleet-renewal-as-first-a220-touches-down/

[Rowan McKeever]

I have to say the QF media release was very underwhelming, the only new information being that the second aircraft is currently on the production line and due for delivery in January. I was hoping for something a little more substantial, even just an actual month for EIS rather than sticking with Q1.

Still, very pleased she's here and very much looking forward to seeing her in person soon :)

[Greg Hyde]

Rowan, I had similar thoughts.

QF have to do proving flights and certification before it enters service. The second one could be here before the first one enters service.

[MarkR]

I have to say the QF media release was very underwhelming, the only new information being that the second aircraft is currently on the production line and due for delivery in January. I was hoping for something a little more substantial, even just an actual month for EIS rather than sticking with Q1.

Still, very pleased she's here and very much looking forward to seeing her in person soon :)

I suspect Qantas are treading softly given the GTF issues that seem to getting worse rather than better, while the impact is not as bad for A220 operators, things are not yet completely resolved.

[Rowan McKeever]

Greg I wonder if they're being a little cautious because of the protracted experience Bonza just went through for the Flair operations.

[Greg Hyde]

Greg I wonder if they're being a little cautious because of the protracted experience Bonza just went through for the Flair operations.

Yep, that could be part of it.

Also, its a NEW type that needs to be certified for Oz.

[MarkR]

Yep, that could be part of it.

Also, its a NEW type that needs to be certified for Oz.

It’s automatically type certified under AC 21-30(2): Type Acceptance Certificates for Imported Aircraft as the A220 has EASA certification. However it needs to be added to the airlines AOC with procedures that are unique to that airline.

[James Smith]

X4A is scheduled to fly SYD-CAN this morning as QJE6215.

[Kent Broadhead]

X4A is scheduled to fly SYD-CAN this morning as QJE6215.

CBR rather than Guangzhou (CAN)?

[James Smith]

Apologies Kent and others. End of year brain drain!

X4A is scheduled to continue flying CBR-MEL-CBR as QJE6216/17.

[Kent Broadhead]

Apologies Kent and others. End of year brain drain!

X4A is scheduled to continue flying CBR-MEL-CBR as QJE6216/17.

Cheers James - I should have included a smiley, just end of year joshing :)

[Greg Hyde]

X4B has reportedly started ground tests.

C-FPBZ, (MSN 55269)

Can't confirm

[Greg Hyde]

X4A has continued with test/proving/certification/training flights between CBR-MEL.

1 x 23/12/23
2 x 30/12/23
1 x 02/01/24 (So far today)

[Joseph Saragozza.]

Do we know when we will see images of the cabin?

[Greg Hyde]

X4B has reportedly started ground tests.

C-FPBZ, (MSN 55269)

Can't confirm

Performed, Taxi checks & RTO yesterday.

[C Patters]

Any pics of X4B that anyone can share?

[Greg Hyde]

Any pics of X4B that anyone can share?

If there was a picture I could confirm the above.

It is expected to the same livery as the QLink E190's

[Rowan McKeever]

Future VH-X4B (test reg: C-FPBZ / MSN: 55269) is airborne now on its first test flight.

https://aviation.flights/aib/A220/55269

[C Patters]

Posted from another site images have emerged of X4B

https://www.facebook.com/100063598450792/posts/862962169167057/?mibextid=WC7FNe

[James Smith]

Thanks for the flight details, Rowan and Facebook photo link, C Patters. Standard QFLink livery but unfortunately the name looks to be covered up with red tape. Total first flight time was 2 hours and 15 minutes.

[Greg Hyde]

James, I expect it will the BIG REVEAL with the first of the animal names

https://www.qantas.com/au/en/promotions/name-qantas-a220.html

[Greg Hyde]

Posted from another site images have emerged of X4B

https://www.facebook.com/100063598450792/posts/862962169167057/?mibextid=WC7FNe

Nice shots, note the serial no. on the left of the front door.

[lloyd fox]

Got it finally
https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/53456969924/in/dateposted-public/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/53456656866/in/dateposted-public/

[Sean L]

X4B should be Koala

[Greg Hyde]

X4B has had a second test flight as ABK369 lasting 02:49

[James Smith]

A220-300 VH-X4B has now completed its third flight of 2 hour 29 minutes from YMX, on 14/1/24 as ABK369/C-FPBZ. Total flight time is now 7 hours 33 minutes.

[Zac M]

X4B was accepted by Qantas at some point today (Australian time), it is due to leave Montreal Mirabel 1000L on Friday 19/1 and will route YMX-YVR-HNL-NAN-CBR arriving in Canberra on Tuesday, will be using the flight number QF6075 at least through till NAN

[Greg Hyde]

Nice shots of X4B "Koala"

https://twitter.com/qantas/status/1747777257631031695?s=46&t=wdZx1fUYZAcB4RrNJUmFQA

[Greg Hyde]

Do we know when we will see images of the cabin?

Read the QF has banned cabin shots at the moment.

This is due to QF still waiting for some seat components to be supplied and the cabin is not complete.

[Rowan McKeever]

Delete please.

[Rowan McKeever]

Further to Zac's message, QF6076 NAN-CBR is scheduled to arrive at 1430 on Tuesday.

[Greg Hyde]

X4B was accepted by Qantas at some point today (Australian time), it is due to leave Montreal Mirabel 1000L on Friday 19/1 and will route YMX-YVR-HNL-NAN-CBR arriving in Canberra on Tuesday, will be using the flight number QF6075 at least through till NAN

X4B has commence its delivery flight as QJE6075 and is currently in YVR

https://www.flightaware.com/live/flight/QJE6075

[Greg Hyde]

X4B was added to the register on 16/01/24

[Dennis McLean]

X4B due in NAN at 2.27pm local time today.

[James Smith]

Flightaware is showing an arrival time of 13:47 for VH-X4B in CBR this afternoon, with a 10:00 local time departure from NAN. It looks as though sistership VH-X4A has been in CBR overnight, so if still there this afternoon will make a great photo opportunity with the different colour schemes if both A220s are side by side or angled nose to nose.

[Greg Hyde]

X4B has started training flights this morning.

[Greg Hyde]

X4A & X4B are both doing training flights today

[C Patters]

Do we know when the next QF A220 will come off the production line?

[Jamie D]

X4A is in Melbourne after having an issue yesterday. X4B doing training flights today.

[Greg Hyde]

X4A is in Melbourne after having an issue yesterday.

Can't give them anything new, the break it all the time.

[Greg Hyde]

X4A is in Melbourne after having an issue yesterday.

X4A is scheduled to return to Canberra this morning as QantasLink 6201

X4B is back to training again.

[Greg Hyde]

X4A & X4B are both performing training flights.

Yesterday, X4A, completed a diversion to Canberra (test) whilst on a flight between MEL & BNE

[Greg Hyde]

The A220 cabin reveal is reportedly set for the 22/02/24.

[Brenden S]

That would be in line with the half year results then.

[Greg Hyde]

A220 big reveal

https://www.qantas.com/au/en/about-us/our-company/fleet/qantaslink-a220.html#our-aircraft

[Greg Hyde]

Amongst the fluff:

As part of the Qantas Group’s Australian domestic fleet renewal program, we’ve ordered 29 new Airbus A220 aircraft. The first A220 commercial flights are scheduled to commence on 1 March 2024 (subject to regulatory approval).

[Greg Hyde]

Looks like X4B had the honour this morning operating QF1266, MEL - CBR and
X4A is about to operate QF1268, MEL - CBR

[Greg Hyde]

From QF Facebook

The first QantasLink Airbus A220 commercial flights took to the skies today, operated by two brand new jets straight from the Airbus factory in Mirabel, Canada.
VH-X4B, named ‘Koala’, operated the inaugural service QF1266 from Melbourne to Canberra, carrying passengers and aviation enthusiasts on the historic flight.

VH-X4A, named ‘Minyma Kutjara Tjukurpa’ with its striking Indigenous livery, made its commercial passenger debut shortly afterwards as QF1268.

As part of our fleet renewal program, the A220s will progressively replace our retiring Boeing 717s, with the third A220 due to arrive in Australia in June and a further four to be delivered by mid-2025.

https://www.facebook.com/Qantas

[Zac M]

Amazing to fly on, very comfortable in both classes!

[Greg Hyde]

From CASA

A220s enter service

Ever wonder how we certify a new type of airliner for operations in Australia?
The introduction this month of a new aircraft type, the Airbus A220-300, is the culmination of a 12-month project involving a CASA team with expertise in areas ranging from flight operations and cabin safety to ground operations.

The A220 aircraft, which will be operated by National Jet Systems (NJS) using the Qantas brand and will replace the airline’s Boeing B717 fleet, are part of an order of 29 aircraft from Airbus Canada.

National Jet is the first Australian airline to operate this first of type, first of model aircraft, with 2 of the aircraft – VH-X4A (painted in the green livery Minyma Kutjari Tjukurpa) and VH-X4B – to operate from the Melbourne, Canberra and Brisbane ports.
The project started a year ago when a pre-application was received by NJS.
CASA flight operations inspectors travelled to Montreal, Canada, for type rating training at the CAE simulator centre to gain a greater technical understanding of the aircraft.

A cabin safety expert also undertook training in Zurich, Switzerland, on emergency procedures and passenger handling.

The assessment process included reviewing documentation covering the manual suite, inspections, testing, and certification for the Air Operator’s Certificate, Civil Aviation Safety Regulation (CASR) Part 42 (continuing airworthiness) and CASR Part 145 (maintenance facility).

There were also practical assessments covering an evacuation demonstration and proving flights.

The evacuation demonstration was conducted in a hangar at Canberra airport with 9 CASA and 30 Qantas staff involved.

A simulated rejected take-off, which required the exit doors to be opened within 10 seconds, helped ensure procedures were within certification requirements.
Proving flights took place over 2 days. A return flight from Melbourne to Brisbane tested both cockpit and ground scenarios, including a simulated fire in a toilet, a scenario of preparing the cabin for a water ditching and night landing.

The second flight from Melbourne to Sydney was diverted to Canberra airport before flying back to Melbourne.

[MarkR]

There is some industrial action at the Airbus plant with a go slow, wonder if it will pushback deliveries.

[James Smith]

With the third A220 due to be delivered in June, does anyone have a list of the MSNs for any future A220s for QLINK?

There are a couple of aircraft on the Airbus Family A220 Aircraft List on Aviation Flights showing under Airline as "Unknown." C-GPSN, MSN 55271 is one but has had three test flights already, so it would be too early and not too far away from delivery. The other is C-GPNO, MSN 55273 which looks to be still in production. Could this A220 be the future VH-X4C?

Did QANTAS not release the MSNs much before production was completed for the first two A220s? I recall the discussion about the MSN and Line Numbers being the same on the A220.

[Rowan McKeever]

I think only the MSN for X4A came out through Qantas' socials, I don't recall seeing anything from them with the MSN for X4B.

FWIW 55271 has been noted on another forum as being a B6 aircraft.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-X4C is reportedly 55288 with test reg C-FPBD

[Dennis McLean]

Interesting Greg, according to Flight Aware, this aircraft did a flight YMX/YMX as Airbus Canada, ABK364, for 2 hr 21 min on 5/2/24.

[Greg Hyde]

Interesting Greg, according to Flight Aware, this aircraft did a flight YMX/YMX as Airbus Canada, ABK364, for 2 hr 21 min on 5/2/24.

That maybe its first flight

[C Patters]

https://aviation.flights/aib/A220/55288

[Rowan McKeever]

Interesting Greg, according to Flight Aware, this aircraft did a flight YMX/YMX as Airbus Canada, ABK364, for 2 hr 21 min on 5/2/24.

That would've been the last C-FPBD, now YL-ABU with Air Baltic.

https://aviation.flights/aib/A220/55264

[Dennis McLean]

Thanks

[Greg Hyde]

VH-X4C is reportedly 55288 with test reg C-FPBD

Based on the current production numbers X4C "should" be rolled out by the end of the month.

[C Patters]

Does anyone know what’s wrong with X4B?

[Ben L]

She’s been having some proactive/preventative maintenance and is back in service today. X4A will now have the same treatment for the next week or so.

[C Patters]

OK thanks Ben for the insights! Strange that this is occurring though for such new aircraft

[C Patters]

Any word on when X4C will be delivered?

[Greg Hyde]

Any word on when X4C will be delivered?

Don't quote me "mid-July"

[C Patters]

Thanks Greg! Seems a bit later than originally planned as I think it was due in June sometime.

[Greg Hyde]

Thanks Greg! Seems a bit later than originally planned as I think it was due in June sometime.

Correct, delayed due to .....

Hard to get a read on the Montreal factory with production delays, part problems, industrial action, no eyes on the ground, ....

[C Patters]

Can anyone shed some light into what’s going on with X4A? These are brand new aircraft & shouldn’t be having any issues

[Lauren J]

Can anyone shed some light into what’s going on with X4A? These are brand new aircraft & shouldn’t be having any issues

Airbus A220s worldwide have a pretty poor reliability rate. Combination of supply chain issues, PW1000Gs, and general teething problems that are seeming to take longer to resolve than other aircraft.

[MarkR]

Nice aircraft when their flying, red ink for airlines taking the gamble in the meantime.

[MarkR]

Can anyone shed some light into what’s going on with X4A? These are brand new aircraft & shouldn’t be having any issues

Anti corrosion work being done, next delivery will go straight in for work while those to come later will get a fix on the production line

[Robert.M]

Really! You’ll think that would have been done while being built!

[Kent Broadhead]

Really! You’ll think that would have been done while being built!

It's the PW engine issues isn't it, not airframe?

[Brenden S]

I heard it is wing corrosion issues on the grapevine.

[MarkR]

I heard it is wing corrosion issues on the grapevine.

The slat tracks were designed with such tight tolerances that it squeezes out basically all the grease. So, they’re starting to corrode in places where it’s rolling up against the rollers.

[Brenden S]

That will do it.

[C Patters]

Some images of X4C

https://www.flickr.com/photos/cyulplanespotter/53804633740/sizes/l/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/cyulplanespotter/53803259777/sizes/l/

[Greg Hyde]

Some images of X4C

https://www.flickr.com/photos/cyulplanespotter/53804633740/sizes/l/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/cyulplanespotter/53803259777/sizes/l/

Named "Little-Red Flying Fox"

[Greg Hyde]

X4D is reportedly s/n 55298

[Greg Hyde]

Nice article on QF & A220 in the August edition of Airliner World

[James Smith]

A220-300, VH-X4C (MSN55288) had an engine run and taxi check at YMX on 15/7/24, a taxi check and rejected take off on 19/7/24 and a couple of hours later its first flight YMX-YMX of 1 hour and 12 minutes. It was using test registration C-FPBD and callsign ABK388.

[James Smith]

A220-300, VH-X4C (MSN55288) has just completed its second test flight from YMX using callsign ABK388 with a flight time of 3 hours and 7 minutes.

[James Smith]

A220-300, VH-X4C (MSN55288) completed its third test flight of 2 hours 10 minutes from YMX on 26/7/24 using callsign ABK388. Total test flight hours are now 6 hours 29 minutes.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-X4C was added to the VH-Reg on 30/07/24.

Delivery must be near.

[James Smith]

Another site is saying that VH-X4C will commence its delivery flights to Australia at midnight on 3rd August AEST (Friday) providing that there are no last minute delays.

[MarkR]

An emergency AD has been issued for the A220 by Canada due to a missing pin in the left hand main gear.
https://x.com/WandrMe/status/1819055691279294541/photo/1

[Rowan McKeever]

Affects X4A and X4B but not X4C, perhaps unsurprisingly since C is still at the factory. Other high MSNs listed on the AD have already been delivered, albeit 55286 was only delivered (to Air Baltic) around 10 days ago.

[MarkR]

Another site is saying that VH-X4C will commence its delivery flights to Australia at midnight on 3rd August AEST (Friday) providing that there are no last minute delays.

Caught @ YVR an hour or so ago

https://www.jetphotos.com/photo/11413695

[James Smith]

As with the two previous A220-300 delivery flights, the sectors have been YMX-YVR-HNL-NAN-SYD/CBR flown over four days. The final leg for VH-X4C is scheduled to depart NAN at 9:00 AEST today as QJE6076 with an expected arrival time of 14:30 in CBR.

[Lauren J]

As with the two previous A220-300 delivery flights, the sectors have been YMX-YVR-HNL-NAN-SYD/CBR flown over four days. The final leg for VH-X4C is scheduled to depart NAN at 9:00 AEST today as QJE6076 with an expected arrival time of 14:30 in CBR.

Is it arriving in Sydney first before Canberra?

[Rowan McKeever]

No, it's coming straight to CBR as X4B did. I'd expect subsequent deliveries to do the same given the EIS work will be done here. X4A probably only stopped in SYD for PR purposes.

[Greg Hyde]

No, it's coming straight to CBR as X4B did. I'd expect subsequent deliveries to do the same given the EIS work will be done here. X4A probably only stopped in SYD for PR purposes.

X4A stopped at SYD for a photo-op as well as PR (TV News).

Why do QLink flights change flight numbers as they cross the Pacific ?

X4C was departed YMX as QantasLink 6075 and switched to QantasLink 6076 departing NAN.

[Rowan McKeever]

Not sure re the flight number. X4A and X4B did the same thing. I can only assume it's to do with crossing the date line (I'm assuming this because it's consistently happened at NAN which is west of the date line) but I can't think why exactly that would necessitate the change of number.

[Greg Hyde]

Not sure re the flight number. X4A and X4B did the same thing. I can only assume it's to do with crossing the date line (I'm assuming this because it's consistently happened at NAN which is west of the date line) but I can't think why exactly that would necessitate the change of number.

The B717's heading to VCV also switched flight numbers between QF & SXI.

[Rowan McKeever]

The B717's heading to VCV also switched flight numbers between QF & SXI.

Someone will correct me if I'm wrong but I believe that was due to ownership.

[Dennis McLean]

X4C arrived in CBR at 3.46pm

[Jamie D]

How long before eis for X4C? What needs to be done post delivery to get it I to service?

[Zac M]

X4C will enter service today as QF1271 CBR-MEL

[Mitchell M.]

I've heard that X4C has had some engineering issues relating to the slide raft. Seems that the A220s have been having quite a few problems ever since they've been delivered.

[Rowan McKeever]

QF's next A220 (MSN 55298, test rego C-FOWQ, will be VH-X4D) appears to have had its first flight.

https://www.flightradar24.com/data/aircraft/c-fowq#36da260c

[James Smith]

Yes, a 2 hour 25 minute test flight. How did you realise that C-FOWQ was the future VH-X4D, Rowan? A bit of a surprise as there was no recording or photo of the A220 exiting the assembly hanger, in primer or full colour scheme, or having taxi checks or a rejected take off. Also, the Canadian test registration was not shown anywhere that I could find when you posted, Rowan, only the MSN. It is now showing on Aviation Flights that I use but only after the flight was completed.

It is interesting to add that from first flight to delivery of X4C was only 15 days so we should see X4D delivered by mid September, all being well.

[Rowan McKeever]

I use Aviation Flights alongside planespotters. The MSN for the next QF A220 was floating around before X4C was delivered and while planespotters didn't list the operator for 55298 it did list the test reg.

After X4D I've got nothing as I haven't seen the MSN for what will be X4E. I assume it can't be too far behind X4D as QF will need 5 A220s in service by mid-November.

[Greg Hyde]

The original announcement was 6 this year but I'm sure it that hasn't been pushed back with production delays..

[James Smith]

QantasLink A220-300, using callsign ABK398 and test registration C-FOWQ, (MSN55298 - to be VH-X4D) has just completed its second test flight of 2 hours and 59 minutes from YMX.

[Ben L]

X4D is pencilled in to leave Mirabel at midnight AEST on Saturday night.

https://www.qantas.com/au/en/travel-info/flight-status.html?flight-status__type=departing&flight-status__selected-airline=QF&flight-status-number=6075&flight-status__date-field=07092024&flight-status__time-field=00%3A00-23%3A59&flight-status.search=true

[Ayden H]

Any words on what its name will be?

[James Smith]

QantasLink A220-300, VH-X4D has just completed its third test flight of 2 hours and 8 minutes from YMX. According to Qantas Flight Status it is still scheduled to depart YMX for YVR as QF6075 at midnight AEST on Saturday night.

[James Smith]

Qantas Flight Status now shows the delivery flight of X4D on Saturday to be cancelled.

[Greg Hyde]

Hasn't been added to the VH-reg as yet.

[Ben L]

Qantas Flight Status now shows the delivery flight of X4D on Saturday to be cancelled.

Now re-scheduled for Tuesday night Aus time.

[Ben L]

Now re-scheduled for Tuesday night Aus time.
Make that Wednesday. That’s my final offer ��

[Greg Hyde]

Make that Wednesday. That’s my final offer ��

May not be QF's :):)

[Ayden H]

Make that Wednesday. That’s my final offer ��

Yep, now scheduled to depart YMX on Wednesday at 10am local time (12am Thursday AEST)

[Ayden H]

VH-X4D QantasLink Airbus A220-300 (MSN 55298) was added to the VH-reg on 9/9/2024.

[Ayden H]

Any words on the MSN for #5? Planespotters.net only shows BFM MSNs beyond 55304, though I'm thinking something along the lines of 5531x or 5532x.

[Rowan McKeever]

From a reputable source on another forum, #5 will be 55312.

[Greg Hyde]

From a reputable source on another forum, #5 will be 55312.

Seen similar, couldn't confirm

[Ayden H]

From a reputable source on another forum, #5 will be 55312.

Roger that. 312 isn't showing up on either PS.N or A.F, which likely means it's a YMX S/N.

[Ayden H]

I still haven't found any photos of X4D online so I can't find the name.

[James Smith]

Originally Posted by Ayden H
Yep, now scheduled to depart YMX on Wednesday at 10am local time (12am Thursday AEST)


The delivery flight of VH-X4D, QF6075 has now been rescheduled by QANTAS to Friday 13/9/24 at 10:00 am local time, 12 midnight Saturday AEST.

[Stirling D]

Decent amount of disruption today with X4C aog

[Ayden H]

Just over 24 hours out and Qantas haven't cancelled it (yet). Hopefully she gets out this time.

[Ayden H]

X4D just took off from YMX on time. unusually it's flying under a QFA callsign rather than QJE. (QFA6075)

[Stirling D]

Something to do with international approvals I think

[Greg Hyde]

Looks like X4D is called "Platypus"

[Ayden H]

Do you have a picture?

[Greg Hyde]

No, I would post one if I had it.

[Ayden H]

Found one

https://cdn.jetphotos.com/full/5/673067_1726271512.jpg

[Dennis McLean]

X4D has landed in HNL 15 minutes ago at 12.16pm Local time 14/9

[Greg Hyde]

X4D has filed its last delivery leg with ETA at 05:45PM AEST Monday (16 Sep) at Canberrrra.

[Ayden H]

X4D departed NAN as QFA6076 at 1413 local (0213Z), current ETA for CBR is 1704 local (0704Z)

[Zac M]

X4D will enter service tomorrow morning as QF1271

[C Patters]

Do we know when X4E will be delivered?

[Ayden H]

Putting my bets on late November or early December

[Ayden H]

Barring any unforeseen circumstances, Qantas' next A220 (X4E) should be named 'Rainbow Lorikeet'.

The rest should be as follows:
X4F: 'Sugar Glider'
X4G: 'Tasmanian Devil' (replacing YQW)
X4H: 'Wedge-Tailed Eagle'
X4I: 'Whale Shark'
X4J: 'Crimson Rosella'
X4K: 'Echidna'

[C Patters]

Thanks Ayden! Do we have the delivery schedules for the remaining frames above noting that X4E should be delivered sometime between now & the end of the year?

[Lauren J]

Barring any unforeseen circumstances, Qantas' next A220 (X4E) should be named 'Rainbow Lorikeet'.

The rest should be as follows:
X4F: 'Sugar Glider'
X4G: 'Tasmanian Devil' (replacing YQW)
X4H: 'Wedge-Tailed Eagle'
X4I: 'Whale Shark'
X4J: 'Crimson Rosella'
X4K: 'Echidna'

Thank you Ayden this is very helpful!
I don't suppose anyone knows the MSNs yet?

[Mitchell M.]

Barring any unforeseen circumstances, Qantas' next A220 (X4E) should be named 'Rainbow Lorikeet'.

The rest should be as follows:
X4F: 'Sugar Glider'
X4G: 'Tasmanian Devil' (replacing YQW)
X4H: 'Wedge-Tailed Eagle'
X4I: 'Whale Shark'
X4J: 'Crimson Rosella'
X4K: 'Echidna'

I heard that X4E would be replacing YQW, must’ve changed.

[Ayden H]

I mean with regards to the name, as YQW is named 'The Tassie Devil'. I can see where the confusion came from though.

[Ayden H]

Thank you Ayden this is very helpful!
I don't suppose anyone knows the MSNs yet?

Other than that X4E is 55312 (which has previously been stated in this thread) I don't unfortunately.

[Rowan McKeever]

I mean with regards to the name, as YQW is named 'The Tassie Devil'. I can see where the confusion came from though.

I'd heard the same, that X4E was going to have a special livery for Tasmania effectively replacing YQW in that role. Perhaps that was incorrect and it's X4G instead, as doing said special livery on X4E and naming X4G 'Tasmanian Devil' wouldn't make much sense.

[Ayden H]

It is entirely possible, however I've been looking at the list given by Qantas on their website and noting that B, C and D have been named in order and assumed the rest would be so. I could be 100% wrong as well.

[Mitchell M.]

I'd heard the same, that X4E was going to have a special livery for Tasmania effectively replacing YQW in that role. Perhaps that was incorrect and it's X4G instead, as doing said special livery on X4E and naming X4G 'Tasmanian Devil' wouldn't make much sense.

Looks like X4E will carry on the legacy as it has been confirmed by qantas that the next A220 will have the Tassie Devil livery.
https://www.qantasnewsroom.com.au/media-releases/end-of-an-era-qantas-marks-final-day-of-717-flying-in-australia/

[Lauren J]

I can’t see where the media release mentions a Tassie Devil livery on an A220. It says that X4E will be named “The Tasmanian Devil” but it doesn’t directly say that it will wear a special livery.

[Mitchell M.]

Good point, but it's pretty conclusive that X4E will wear the livery. I've also been told by a flight attendant that this is the case.

[Ayden H]

Any updates on X4E?

[Ayden H]

QantasLink A220-300 VH-X4E MSN 55312 (test registration C-FOVX) has performed an engine run and taxi check on 6/11/2024.

[Ayden H]

After sitting at the end of the taxiway for what felt like years, it is taxiing back to the apron at 10:25pm local time

[Greg Hyde]

QantasLink A220-300 VH-X4E MSN 55312 (test registration C-FOVX) has performed an engine run and taxi check on 6/11/2024.

Been out for another run on the 09/11/24

[Ayden H]

Taxi check and RTO according to aviation.flights (https://aviation.flights/aib/a220/55312). Probably have its FF today local time or sometime this week.

[Ayden H]

QantasLink Airbus A220-300 VH-X4E MSN 55312 (test registration C-FOVX) is currently taxiing for its first flight YMX-YOW-YMX.

[James Smith]

QantasLink A220-300, using callsign ABK312 and test registration C-FOVX, (MSN 55312 - to be VH-X4E) has completed its first test flight of 4 hours and 18 minutes from YMX on 15/11/24.

[Greg Hyde]

X4E will reportedly carry the same "Tassie Devil" livery as the previous B717.

[James Smith]

QantasLink A220-300, using callsign ABK312 and test registration C-FOVX, (MSN 55312 - to be VH-X4E) has completed its second test flight of 2 hours and 11 minutes from YMX with a quick stop in YOW and back to YMX on 19/11/24.

[Brenden S]

I guess the livery will be applied here in Australia. A shame it isn't going to be painted on. The decals on YQW are looking very faded here in Perth.

[Ayden H]

QantasLink A220-300 VH-X4E MSN 55312 (test registration C-FOVX) has completed its third flight of 2 hours and 5 minutes at YMX on 25/11/24.

[Ayden H]

https://youtu.be/nswQQMQyNzA?t=27

At 27 seconds into this video you can see VH-X4E in the hangar. Doesn't look to have any special livery/decals on it yet.

[Greg Hyde]

X4E was added to the VH-Reg today (28/11/2024).

Delivery should be imminent.

[Greg Hyde]

X4E has commenced her delivery flight.

[Ayden H]

First picture of X4E. No special livery sadly
https://cdn.jetphotos.com/full/6/1464134_1733091652.jpg

[Greg Hyde]

Looks like it is named "Tasmanian devil".

Can't zoom the image to confirm

[Ayden H]

It is.

[Rowan McKeever]

I'd like to hope that a special livery will be applied when it arrives in Australia but I understand it's needed in service from late this week or early next which, even for stickers, doesn't seem overly likely.

[Tony JC]

Decals can be applied overnight in most cases.

[Adrian B]

Currently 90 mins out of HNL

[Dennis McLean]

VH-X4E arrived in NAN at 3.26pm local time.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-X4E is scheduled to arrive in Canberra @ 13:23 today

[Raymond Rowe]

Half way across to Canberra

[Ayden H]

About to land

[Ayden H]

VH-X4E entered service today as QF1273 CBR-MEL.

[Greg Hyde]

Next flight is

QJE1513 MEL -> LST

I hope she had her decals fitted.

[Ayden H]

Nope.

Any news on any potential MSNs for the next 220?

[Kurt A]

VH-X4E entered service today as QF1273 CBR-MEL.

X4E seen at CBR on Saturday 7th Dec before entering service.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54190590186_fbc0f89187_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2qyCWus) https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54190590191_ab72c6a4df_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2qyCWux)

[Robert.M]

Next flight is

QJE1513 MEL -> LST

I hope she had her decals fitted.

Saw photos of it at LST. No decals. Just the name “Tasmanian Devil”.

[Greg Hyde]

Noticed the other "Tassie Devil" or Melba in the background of the above photo.

[Raymond Rowe]

Nice rear end shot Kurt

[Kurt A]

Thanks Ray!

[Alex Ch]

Any idea why X4C has been out of action? Positioned HBA-CBR last Saturday and hasn't flown since

[C Patters]

Brand new aircraft out of action not ideal!

[Ryan K]

I'm not sure why, but the whole A220 introduction has been nothing short of a nightmare. Customers are not confident booking the A220 when so many flights are being cancelled.

[Lauren J]

I'm not sure why, but the whole A220 introduction has been nothing short of a nightmare. Customers are not confident booking the A220 when so many flights are being cancelled.

30% of the world’s fleet is grounded, and the aircraft’s reliability problems extend beyond just engine issues.
There’s a good discussion on this post about some of the A220’s issues: https://www.reddit.com/r/aviationmaintenance/s/ZRCXJbFWne

[Greg Hyde]

For those with a good memory (or watch a lot of aviation docos)

The B747-100 had problems with the P&W JT9D engines to point there were around 20 f brand new PAN AM B747's parked at Everett minus engines.

It wasn't until December 1969, the 747 received its FAA airworthiness certificate and the rest is history.

I'm saying that this is the same, but it's not the first time that an aircraft has been plagued with engine issues.

[Brian Wilkes]

I'm not sure why the Irishman ordered the things in the first place having known all the pre and ongoing production problems with them.

[Alex Ch]

It seems like the technical issues have also been compounded by crewing problems with attracting and retaining pilots due to what has been described elsewhere as a very ordinary contract. It's hard to recall a more troubled EIS for any aircraft type.

[Zac M]

I think that’s a little bit dramatic, and not really accurate. A lot of the crew are still awaiting their training slots following the completion of B717 ops…

[Ryan K]

The A220 is being withdrawn from Launceston from March. The ****show continues! Apparently to be replaced with the E190 and a few weekly 737 evening flights. Hobart services are also likely to be changed to E190 and mainline services too.

[C Patters]

What is the reason for withdrawal? Where are the A220’s being re directed too?

[Dennis McLean]

There is a DRW/SIN/DRW flight from the end March.

[C Patters]

Do we know when the next batch of A220's will start arriving X4F, X4G etc?

[Ryan K]

I'm not sure, but even with extra air frames, a lack of crew continues to be a huge issue.

[James Smith]

From the QANTAS 2H/2024 results, X4F is due for delivery in March/April, 2025. A further one is due for delivery in FY25, with another 11 due for delivery in FY26 and a further 11 due for delivery by the end of calendar year 2027. This is of course subject to change and will complete the current order of 29 A220's.

[Ben L]

X4F: Qantas flight status page has QF6075 scheduled from Mirabel on Sunday morning local.

[Lauren J]

Any confirmed MSNs for the next few A220s? X4F-X4J?

[Ayden H]

I believe MSN 55340, could be wrong. https://aviation.flights/aib/A220/55340

[Ayden H]

55340 confirmed. https://www.planespotters.net/airframe/airbus-a220-300-unknown/enojd9

[Greg Hyde]

VH-X4F/55340 was added to the VH-Reg on 27/03/2025.

[Ben L]

X4F: Qantas flight status page has QF6075 scheduled from Mirabel on Sunday morning local.

Now brought forward to midday Saturday local (Sunday morning Aus time).

[Greg Hyde]

X4F has commenced her ferry using QLK6075

[Lauren J]

There were some rumours that X4F would be the first mainline A220, I’m assuming this turned out to not be true?

[Ben L]

X4G has been spotted. MSN 55352 and test reg C-FOVP.

[Greg Hyde]

X4G has been spotted. MSN 55352 and test reg C-FOVP.

Thanks Ben, expected delv by June 30.

[Lauren J]

X4F is named “Rainbow Lorikeet” and has been spotted in Vancouver in QantasLink colours.

[Tony JC]

There were some rumours that X4F would be the first mainline A220, I’m assuming this turned out to not be true?

At this stage, all A220’s are to be operated by NJS under the QantasLink branding.

[Ayden H]

[deleted]

[Ayden H]

Picture of X4F at YVR
https://cdn.jetphotos.com/full/6/699542_1743294796.jpg

[Ayden H]

Anyone know why X4F is still in Vancouver? Nothing on the QF site for the next three days.

Edit: scheduled to depart YVR at 1000 local (1700Z) as QF6076

[James Smith]

QLK6076 departed YVR on time and is now just over an hour out from HNL. The confusing thing is that each leg has the next flight number. QANTAS flight status shows HNL-NAN is QLK6077 on 1/4/25 arriving on 2/4/25, after crossing the international dateline and NAN-CBR will be QLK6078 on 3/4/25.