We have been working closely with SmartLynx to ensure flights between Sydney and Lord Howe Island meet the same exceptional level of safety and service. These flights are ready to transition earlier than planned, with all flights from 1 December 2025 operated by SmartLynx and available to book through Qantas as a codeshare service. Find out more.
Qantas flights, operated by SmartLynx Australia (formerly Skytrans)
Find out about your flying experience with SmartLynx between Sydney and Lord Howe Island.
About our partnership
From April 2025, flights between Sydney and Lord Howe Island transitioned to being operated by our airline partner, SmartLynx. If you're travelling before 1 December 2025, you'll be flying on a SmartLynx operated flight for Qantas, which will look a little different. Find out more about your onboard experience All flights from 1 December 2025 inclusive, will be operated by SmartLynx.
Why has this changed?
We're investing in our fleet, which means upgrading our Dash 8-200 (Q200) aircraft. As the Q200 is the only aircraft that can fly to Lord Howe Island due to the runway length, our trusted partner SmartLynx will operate our original Q200 fleet.
About SmartLynx (formerly Skytrans)
SmartLynx is our trusted partner with more than 30 years of experience servicing the Cape and the Torres Straight region in Queensland. Until 29 July 2025, SmartLynx was operating under the name Skytrans, and underwent a rebrand to become SmartLynx, with no change to their operations.
Your experience
What to expect onboard during the transition period
Flying until 30 November 2025
While the SmartLynx services will look a little different externally, the internal cabin configuration of the aircraft will remain the same. There will be no change to the flight schedule, frequency of flights or check-in process, and you'll still check in to a Qantas (QF) flight number at the airport, via the Qantas App or by visiting Manage booking
On a SmartLynx flight operated for Qantas, you'll enjoy Qantas' catering onboard, as well as carry-on and checked baggage allowances. SmartLynx pilots and cabin crew will be operating the flight, with training and support from Qantas.
Rest assured, your Qantas Frequent Flyer benefits will still apply as normal, including the opportunity to earn Qantas Points, Status Credits and Status Bonuses, and enjoy access to Qantas lounges (where applicable).
Flying from 1 December 2025
You'll be flying on a Qantas codeshare flight operated by SmartLynx Australia (formerly Skytrans). Check in will be via SmartLynx using the new flight number/s provided.
SmartLynx flights arrive at Sydney Domestic Terminal 2 and depart from Sydney Domestic Terminal 3. When flying from Lord Howe Island to Sydney and connecting onto a Qantas domestic flight, you will need to make your way from Terminal 2 to Terminal 3.
There will be no change to Qantas Points and Status Credits earned, or lounge access. Priority check-in, boarding and additional baggage allowance are not available on this SmartLynx operated codeshare flight.
If you're travelling between Sydney and Lord Howe Island from 1 December 2025, find out more about Qantas codeshare flights operated by SmartLynx
How to check if your flight experience will change
If your flight changed and you'll now be travelling on a SmartLynx operated flight for Qantas, we've let you know via email or SMS. For any new bookings, you'll see the operating carrier information when booking online.