Qantas 717-200

The 717 is gone — the last one flew in October 2024, ending more than two decades on QantasLink regional routes. If you still see it on a booking, the route has most likely moved to an A220-300 or an A319. It was a workhorse for regional Australia, but age and running costs caught up; the A220 that replaced it is a step up on every measure.

If you somehow draw one of the last services, Business up front in a two-by-two is the pick. The cabin's compact enough that every seat is near a door, and the low-altitude regional flying makes for good window views; the front rows are off first for a connection.

The back rows are noisy and buzzy, with the single rear lavatory and its queue right alongside. On a small jet the front-to-back gap is more noticeable than on a big one.