Boeing 737-838(WL) ZK-ZQA "Jean Batten" has exited the Jetconnect fleet flying its final service under its ZK markings as QFA124 from Auckland to Brisbane 25 October 2017. It was promptly cancelled from the NZ register on the same day as its last flight under the Jetconnect air operators certificate.
Having flown with the Qantas affiliate since delivery in September 2009, ZK-ZQA is heading to the Qantas mainline fleet and will presumably take up its previous identity used for the delivery flight, VH-VZF.
Having flown with the Qantas affiliate since delivery in September 2009, ZK-ZQA is heading to the Qantas mainline fleet and will presumably take up its previous identity used for the delivery flight, VH-VZF.
ZK-ZQA was the 75th Boeing 737 delivered to the Australian Airlines/Qantas Airways Group and this milestone was proudly displayed under the cockpit window below the aircraft's name.
The Boeing made its first flight from Renton 31 July 2009 wearing manufacturer test registration N1795B. It was initially registered VH-VZF to VH-VZF Pty Ltd on 05 August 2009 and leased to Qantas as the operator. While wearing its VH marks, the 737 wore the New Zealand flag and "ZQA" on the nosewheel door. It arrived at Melbourne 03 September 2009 as QFA6020 from Boeing Field via Honolulu and Nadi. After pre-service maintenance, it was cancelled from the VH register 16 September 2009 to become ZK-ZQA leased to Jetconnect Ltd. The same day it ferried from Melbourne to Auckland as QFA6021 and on arrival a special ceremony was held to celebrate the New Generation airliner's introduction to the Jetconnect operation and the unveiling of the chosen name "Jean Batten".
ZK-ZQA entered service 17 September 2009 as QFA116 from Auckland to Brisbane.
