Qantas customers will continue to enjoy direct flights between Sydney and Lord Howe Island for years to come thanks to a new agreement with regional airline Skytrans.
With QantasLink set to retire its Q200 aircraft currently servicing the route, the New South Wales Government has awarded Skytrans an exclusive licence to operate this service starting February 26, 2026. The decision ensures reliable air connectivity to the island amid QantasLink’s major turboprop fleet upgrade.
QantasLink and Skytrans will finalise a codeshare agreement that will mean customers can book Lord Howe Island flights directly through Qantas.com.
Frequent flyers will continue to earn Status Credits and Qantas Points, with access to Qantas lounges in Sydney. Under this partnership, Skytrans will maintain the current flight schedule and frequency operated by QantasLink and operate flights from Qantas’ Terminal 3 at Sydney Airport, leaving existing bookings unaffected.
The 36-seat Q200, the only QantasLink aircraft capable of landing on Lord Howe Island’s short runway, will be retired as part of Qantas’ regional fleet renewal.
QantasLink CEO Rachel Yangoyan emphasized the company’s commitment to maintaining service continuity for Lord Howe Island residents and visitors.
“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,” Yangoyan said.
“We have been working closely with Skytrans to secure a codeshare arrangement for these flights so our frequent flyers can continue to enjoy the benefits they know and love when flying with Qantas.
“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 CEO Alan Milne said.
Transition Timeline
Present – March 29, 2025: QantasLink will continue current operations on the Q200 aircraft.
March 30, 2025 – February 25, 2026: QantasLink and Skytrans will share the regulated route license. Skytrans pilots and crew may assist with QantasLink flights during this period.
February 26, 2026 – March 2030: Skytrans will exclusively operate all Lord Howe Island flights under its license, with booking options available on both Skytrans and Qantas channels.
