OREANDA-NEWS. QantasLink today welcomed the Queensland Government's decision on regulated air service routes, which ensures regional and rural communities across Queensland continue to have access to air travel.

QantasLink was awarded the Brisbane - Roma - Charleville route and the Brisbane - Longreach - Barcaldine - Blackall route.

As a result, QantasLink will upgrade all Roma, Longreach, Barcaldine and Blackall services to its 74-seat Q400 aircraft, providing customers with a quieter, more comfortable and faster travel experience on every flight. All Charleville services will be upgraded to the Q300 aircraft.

QantasLink Chief Executive Officer, John Gissing said the airline recognised the importance of air services to regional communities.

"As the national carrier and Australia's largest regional airline, QantasLink has a proud history of keeping regional and rural communities connected," said Mr Gissing.

"QantasLink will continue to provide reliable and affordable premium air travel to the Longreach, Roma, Charleville, Barcaldine and Blackall communities.

"We have also timed the services in consultation with the local communities, to ensure that our flights are best suited to their needs.

"Qantas' history started in outback Queensland in 1920, so we're delighted that we can continue to serve these important regional communities."

Queensland's Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said today's outcome was a positive one for Queenslanders.

"This is a great deal for regional Queensland as part of our strong plan for a brighter future.

"This was robust and competitive tender process. The State Government is looking forward to working with QantasLink to service the communities of regional Queensland."

To celebrate the announcement, QantasLink is offering sale fares to Roma (USD 89 one way), Charleville (USD 95, one way), Longreach (USD 105, one way), Barcaldine (USD 99, one way) and Blackall (USD 99, one way), from 14 October to 19 October for travel between 18 December to 19 April 2015.

QantasLink operates to 57 metropolitan and regional destinations in Australia, as well as to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. QantasLink fleet includes the following jet and turboprop aircraft: 18 Boeing 717-200 (125-115 seats), 31 Q400 (74 seats), 16 Q300 (50 seats) and three Q200 (36 seats).