Alliance Aviation will reduce the number of Embraer E190s it operates for Qantas from 30 to 23 under a revised wet-lease agreement that also includes higher lease rates and an updated pricing mechanism.
The reduction will take place progressively through fiscal year 2027. Alliance said the aircraft released from the contract will become available for other ACMI and charter opportunities.
Qantas began wet-leasing Embraer E190s from Alliance in 2021 for operations under the QantasLink regional network. The Australian airline is also introducing Airbus A220-300s, which are gradually replacing older aircraft in its regional fleet.
QantasLink currently operates a mixed fleet that includes Boeing 717s, Airbus A220s, Embraer E190s, Fokker 100s, Dash 8 turboprops and Airbus A319s.
Alliance said it will adjust its workforce and operating model to match the lower flying activity, with employee consultations scheduled over the coming months. The company expects to disclose the financial impact of the revised agreement when it reports annual results on Aug. 25.
The carrier remains one of the world’s largest Embraer E190 operators, with a fleet of 51 aircraft. It also operates 22 Fokker 100s and 12 Fokker 70s, primarily serving the ACMI, charter and regional markets across Australia.
