OREANDA-NEWS. QantasLink today unveiled its refurbished Boeing 717 jet aircraft with Tourism Tasmania 'Tassie Devil' decal, further strengthening its commitment to the State.

The unveiling of the aircraft - named 'The Tassie Devil' with the unique decal - coincides with the launch of Boeing 717 services on the Melbourne - Hobart route, which commences on Sunday 1 June.

Qantas Domestic CEO Lyell Strambi said that the aircraft demonstrates the Qantas Group's continued commitment to Tasmania.

“Qantas is strong supporter and investor in Australian tourism and this special aircraft will be flown around the country, promoting Tasmania to every city and town that it operates to,” Mr Strambi said.

“Our refurbished Boeing 717 jets have already been flying on the Sydney - Hobart route and the feedback from customers has been overwhelming and we're really looking forward to introducing it on the Melbourne - Hobart route from tomorrow.

“It is a fantastic aircraft, with market-leading seats, premium food and drinks and exceptional on board service, as well as iPad in-flight entertainment for all customers.”

The Premier of Tasmania and Tourism Minister Will Hodgman welcomed the 'Tassie Devil aircraft.

“The Tasmanian Devil branding of this new jet will be a great flying advertisement for Tasmania and assist the Tasmanian Government to realise our goal of growing our tourism industry to 1.5 million visitors per year by 2020,” Premier Hodgman said.

Through the Boeing 717 operation, QantasLink, with Cobham Aviation Services, has established a crew base in Tasmania, with 30 cabin crew and 15 pilots to be based in Hobart. This is the first time that Qantas has established a crew base in Tasmania.

In 2013, Qantas signed a USD 4.35 million marketing co-operative with the Tasmanian Government to promote Tasmania internationally and within Australia.

The Qantas Group operates 60 return flights between Hobart and Melbourne and 18 return flights between Hobart and Sydney each week.