Qantas customers can look forward to continued flights between Sydney and Lord Howe Island, thanks to a new agreement with regional airline Skytrans. As Qantas retires its Q200 aircraft, Skytrans has been awarded the exclusive licence by the New South Wales Government to operate this route starting 26 February 2026.
Seamless Transition and Continued Benefits
QantasLink and Skytrans are finalising a codeshare agreement to ensure a smooth transition. This means locals and tourists can continue booking flights to Lord Howe Island on Qantas.com, earning Qantas Points and Status Credits, and enjoying access to lounges in Sydney. The flight schedule and frequency will remain unchanged, and operations will continue from Qantas’ Terminal 3 at Sydney Airport, ensuring no impact on existing bookings.
Commitment to Regional Connectivity
The 36-seat Q200 aircraft, the only one in QantasLink’s fleet capable of operating on Lord Howe Island’s short runway, is being phased out as part of Qantas’ investment in its turboprop fleet. QantasLink CEO Rachel Yangoyan emphasised the airline’s commitment to maintaining services to the island, stating, “We have a long and proud history with Lord Howe Island and are pleased to be partnering with Skytrans to make sure the island continues to have a reliable air service as the Q200s are phased out of the QantasLink fleet.”
A Strong Partnership for the Future
Skytrans CEO Alan Milne expressed excitement about the partnership, saying, “Skytrans is honoured to be able to continue this essential air service and looks forward to working closely with the Lord Howe Island community to ensure a safe, reliable and customer-focused operation continues.” Skytrans has been awarded the regulated route licence until March 2030.
Transition Timeline
- Present – 29 March 2025: QantasLink continues to operate its existing flights on the Q200 aircraft.
- 30 March 2025 – 25 February 2026: QantasLink and Skytrans share the regulated route license, with Skytrans pilots and cabin crew training or operating QantasLink flights.
- 26 February 2026 – March 2030: Skytrans operates all flights to Lord Howe Island under its exclusive licence.
Flights can be booked on Qantas.com, Skytrans.com.au, or through travel agents, ensuring a seamless experience for all passengers. This partnership highlights Qantas and Skytrans’ dedication to providing reliable and convenient air travel to one of Australia’s most beautiful destinations.
