Air Link (Dubbo) Cessna 510 Citation Mustang Bizjet VH-SEQ Calls into Rockhampton Airport - Plus More!

On Friday 21 February, Air Link (Dubbo) Cessna 510 Citation Mustang bizjet VH-SEQ visited Rockhampton Airport from Archerfield and the Sunshine Coast.

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Mitchell Water Cessna 525 Citation M2 bizjet VH-WMY flew up from Melbourne (Moorabbin) and Ararat to Mackay Airport before it then continued up to Townsville.  VH-WMY then flew back to Moorabbin.

Of interest, VH-WMY has also visited Chinchilla Aerodrome and Roma Airport over the last couple of days.

And LifeFlight (Aeromed) Canadair CL-600-2B16 Challenger 604 bizjet VH-OFC "Ambulance 634" flew up from Brisbane to Rockhampton Airport and Emerald Airport before returning to Rocky and then Brisbane.

UPDATE!  On Saturday 22 February, VH-OFC "Ambulance 634" visited Mackay Airport from Brisbane.

Photo taken by Ryan Hothersall  ©

S&S Aviation / Business Aviation Solutions Bombardier CL-600-2B16 Challenger 604 Bizjet VH-XPA Pops into Hamilton Island Airport - Plus More!

On Thursday 20 February, S&S Aviation / Business Aviation Solutions Bombardier CL-600-2B16 Challenger 604 bizjet VH-XPA visited Hamilton Island Airport from the Gold Coast before later departing to Townsville.  It then headed overseas to Nadi, Fiji.

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And new Pilatus Australia (South Australia) Pilatus PC-24 Super Versatile Jet VH-DMS arrived into Mackay Airport from Cessnock.

UPDATE!  On Friday 21 February, VH-DMS departed Mackay Airport and returned to Cessnock.

 

Meanwhile, also on Thursday 20 February, the Queensland Government (State of Queensland) Beech B300C Super King Air 350 VH-8PE arrived into Rockhampton Airport from Cairns and later departed to Brisbane

Hughes Aviation (Hughes Pastoral Group) (Gympie) Pilatus PC-12//47E NGX VH-8HP flew down from Tierawoomba to Archerfield. 

Austrek Aviation Beech B200 Super King Air VH-ZGD visited Rockhampton Airport from Toowoomba.

And Machjet (Machjet International) Beech B200C King Air VH-PUY as "Machflight 121" visited Rockhampton Airport from Mareeba.

A Pair of Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Lockheed C-130J-30 Hercules Aircraft - A97-448 & A97-467 - Spotted Visiting Rockhampton Airport

On Wednesday 19 February, a pair of Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Lockheed C-130J-30 Hercules transport aircraft were spotted visiting Rockhampton Airport.

A97-467 "Envoy 72"

C-130J A97-448 as "Trojan 46" arrived into Rockhampton Airport from Townsville before it later departed back there.

And C-130J A97-467 as "Envoy 72" arrived into Rockhampton Airport from RAAF Base Richmond before it later departed back to the South.

Nice!

Photo taken by Steve Vit  ©

GBJ Nominees (Navair Flight Operations) Textron (Cessna) 510 Citation Mustang Bizjet VH-IEQ "Navair 123" Calls into Rockhampton Airport - Plus More!

On Tuesday 18 February, the sleek looking GBJ Nominees (Navair Flight Operations) Textron (Cessna) 510 Citation Mustang bizjet VH-IEQ as "Navair 123" arrived into Rockhampton Airport from Bankstown.

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UPDATE!  On Wednesday 19 February, VH-IEQ "Navair 123" departed Rockhampton Airport for Townsville before later returning to Rocky and then continuing back to Bankstown.

Stirling Helicopters Piper PA-23-250 Aztec VH-EQD arrived into Rockhampton Airport from Archerfield.  It then departed to Roma Airport before returning to Rocky and then later departing back to Archerfield.

Photo taken by Jamie C  ©

Air Link (Dubbo) Beech B200 King Air VH-ISS Pops into Mackay Airport Heading to New Cairns Base - Plus More!

On Sunday 16 February, Air Link (Dubbo) Beech B200 King Air VH-ISS flew up from Archerfield to Mackay Airport and then Cairns where it will now seemingly be based. 

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While Strickland Bosavi Foundation Cessna U206G VH-ITV arrived into Rockhampton Airport from Archerfield and then departed to Atherton. 

And several Flight Training Adelaide (FTA) / Qantas Group Pilot Academy Diamond DA-40 Star training aircraft were noted visiting some Central Queensland Airports, all flying out of their Toowoomba-Wellcamp Airport base.

VH-PQE, VH-EFI and VH-YTI all flew up from Wellcamp to Gladstone Airport and then down to Hervey Bay (Fraser Coast) Airport and back to Wellcamp.  While VH-YTL and VH-YNG flew up from Wellcamp to Bundaberg Airport and back. 

Photo taken by Emily C  ©

Air Charter Services / Flight Options (Australia) Embraer EMB-505 Phenom 300 Bizjet VH-VKX Pops into Hamilton Island Airport - Plus More!

On Saturday 15 February, Air Charter Services / Flight Options (Australia) Embraer EMB-505 Phenom 300 bizjet VH-VKX was noted visiting Hamilton Island Airport from Brisbane.

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Bowenville based (operated by Real Time Aviation - Brisbane) Cessna 525 CitationJet CJ1+ bizjet VH-JSZ departed the Whitsunday Airport at Shute Harbour for Archerfield. It had arrived yesterday from Archerfield via Dalby and Natal Downs.

LifeFlight (Aeromed) Canadair CL-600-2B16 Challenger 604 bizjet VH-OFA as "Ambulance 614" flew up from Brisbane to Mackay then to Longreach, Charleville, Wellcamp and Brisbane.  It had also visited Mackay Airport and Proserpine (Whitsunday Coast) Airport at the start of the week.

UPDATE!  VH-OFA "Ambulance 614" visited Mackay Airport again directly from Brisbane on Sunday 16 February.

Fellow LifeFlight Challenger 604 bizjet VH-OFB "Ambulance 624" has also visited some CQ Airports this past week, including Longreach, Mackay, Rockhampton and Bundaberg Airports during a busy week flying out of and back to Townsville.

Meanwhile, also on Saturday 15 February, Seair Pacific / Istlecote Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX VH-MIF arrived into Rockhampton Airport from Lady Elliot Island and then departed to Townsville.  It then flew down to the Labona Station Airstrip within Adani Australia's (Bravus Mining & Resources) Carmichael Coal Mine site and then Emerald Airport.

UPDATE!  On Sunday 16 February, VH-MIF departed Labona to Emerald Airport and then returned to Labona and then departed to Rockhampton Airport and onwards to Hervey Bay (Fraser Coast) Airport and the Gold Coast.

Finally, also on Saturday 15 February, QantasLink (Alliance Airlines) Embraer ERJ-190AR (ERJ-190-100 IGW) VH-UZI looked to visit Rockhampton Airport from Townsville as QFA2690/3 on a sports charter flight for the Queensland rugby League (QRL).

Photo taken by Steve Vit  ©

QantasLink (Alliance Airlines) Embraer E-190 Regional Jet VH-UYR Now Re-Painted and back at CQ Airports - Plus More! - UPDATED!

On Friday 14 February, QantasLink operated but Alliance Airlines owned Embraer E-190 regional jet VH-UYR made a return to Central Queensland Airports following a period of time in the Flying Colours paint shop in Townsville receiving the QantasLink livery.  It operated into Emerald Airport twice during a busy day as QFA1902/13/78/21 both times flying from and back to Brisbane.  (UPDATE!  Photo added below!)

Of interest VH-UYR was transferred back to the QantasLink / Alliance stable after operating in Darwin with Air North for some time.  It was re-painted in Townsville during January and February.

While Townsville Airlines Raytheon B1900D VH-PSK arrived into Rockhampton Airport from Cairns ad Townsville and then departed to Brisbane.  VH-PSK completed a similar flight earlier in the week.

Fellow Flightech Air Logistics / Townsville Airlines Aero Commander 500-S VH-YJI arrived visited Rockhampton Airport from Cairns.

Forster Helicopters (Townsville) new Airbus Helicopters AS 350 B3 VH-KFT arrived into Rockhampton Airport from the Sunshine Coast and Bundaberg Airport.  It then departed to Mackay Airport and then Townsville. 

And Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Lockheed C-130J-30 Hercules A97-464 as "Trojan 14" was noted flying up from RAAF Base Richmond to descend to low level overhead Hervey Bay (Fraser Coast) Airport.  It then flew low level around Fraser Island before climbing back up overhead Hervey Bay (Fraser Coast) Airport and then back South.

Photo taken by Gareth Ruhe  ©

Jetstar Airways New Airbus A320neo (A320-251N) VH-A5C First Visit to Central Queensland at Hervey Bay (Fraser Coast) Airport - Plus More!

On Thursday 13 February, Jetstar Airways brand new Airbus A320neo (A320-251N) VH-A5C was noted making its first visit into Central Queensland at Hervey Bay (Fraser Coast) Airport.  It operated as JST890/1 from and back to Sydney.

(Photo Added...)

VH-A5C was delivered into Melbourne (Tullamarine) from Toulouse at the start of February and entered service on Saturday 8 February.

Meanwhile, also on Thursday 13 February, McDermott Aviation Group / Machjet International Cessna 525A CitationJet CJ2 bizjet VH-SUY landed at Gladstone Airport from the Sunshine Coast and then departed to Mareeba.  Later VH-SUY as "Machflight 421" landed back at Gladstone Airport from Mareeba and then departed to Sunshine Coast.

Stroud Aviation and Transportation (Boonah) / Navair Flight Operations Cessna 510 Citation Mustang bizjet VH-SHI as Navair 173 which had arrived into Rockhampton Airport from Archerfield and Bundaberg Airport two days earlier, departed there to Toowoomba. 

Air Gold Coast Cessna 525 Citation CJ1 bizjet VH-CDG visited Bundaberg Airport from Archerfield.

AirMed Australia Cessna 510 Citation Mustang Bizjet VH-PWX as "AirMed 921" arrived into Rockhampton Airport from Archerfield and then departed to Coffs Harbour. 

And after arriving at the start of the week, New Zealand based (American registered) Dassault Falcon 900EX bizjet N146EX departed Hamilton Island Airport for the Gold Coast. 

Finally, also on Thursday 13 February, Auslink Aviation / Aircrew Training and Support Diamond DA-40 VH-END flew up from Archerfield to Rockhampton Airport and then Townsville.

UPDATE!  On Friday 14 February, VH-END departed Townsville for Richmond and Mount Isa.  On Saturday 15 February, VH-END returned to Archerfield from Mount Isa via Longreach and Roma Airports.

And Heli Qld Airbus Helicopters EC 130 T2 VH-WJY was noted flying around the Bundaberg area after flying up from Toowoomba.  It later returned to Toowoomba.

Photo taken by Tony Haynes  ©

Air Gold Coast Cessna 525A CitationJet CJ2 bizjet VH-ZDM Pops into Hamilton Island Airport - Plus More!

On Wednesday 12 February, Air Gold Coast Cessna 525A CitationJet CJ2 bizjet VH-ZDM visited Hamilton Island Airport from the Gold Coast.

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Parker Aviation Ventures (Sydney) / Air Link (Dubbo) Embraer EMB-500 Phenom bizjet VH-PNM flew up from Archerfield and Brisbane to Hamilton Island Airport before later returning directly to Archerfield.

Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) (Cobham SAR Services Pty Ltd) Bombardier CL-600-2B16 Challenger 604 bizjet VH-XNC as "Rescue 440" flew down from Cairns to complete some aerial surveillance / search work South of Roma.  It then landed at Emerald Airport to refuel before returning to Cairns.

UPDATE!  On Thursday 13 February, VH-XNC "Rescue 440" flew back down to the search area near Roma and completed more airwork while on a flight out of and back to Cairns.

Meanwhile, also on Wednesday 12 February. Poolhurst Aviation Air Charter Services Pilatus PC-12/47E VH-PDE, which had landed at Planet Downs yesterday, departed there back to Archerfield.

Hughes Aviation (Hughes Pastoral Group) (Gympie) Pilatus PC-12/47E NGX VH-8HP, which flew down from Keeroongooloo to Warwick and Toowoomba the previous day, flew out of Toowoomba to Warwick, Caldervale Station, Keeroongooloo and Tumbah Station this morning, continued on to Emerald Airport and then Tierawoomba.

Hinterland Aviation Beech B200 King Air VH-HLJ visited Rockhampton Airport from Cairns as HND455.

And APA Helicopters Eurocopter AS350B3 VH-83Q arrived into Rockhampton Airport from the South and parked at Stirling Helicopters.

Photo taken by Brodie Lawson  ©

Navair Flight Operations Embraer EMB-500 Phenom 100 Bizjet VH-HQK Pops into Rockhampton Airport Again! - Plus More!

On Tuesday 11 February, Navair Flight Operations Embraer EMB-500 Phenom 100 bizjet VH-HQK was noted arriving into Rockhampton Airport from Dubbo.  The (becoming) frequent visitor later looked to return back to Dubbo.

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While Stroud Aviation and Transportation (Boonah) / Navair Flight Operations Cessna 510 Citation Mustang bizjet VH-SHI as "Navair 173" arrived into Bundaberg Airport from Archerfield.  It then flew up to Rockhampton Airport.

UPDATE!  On Thursday 13 February, VH-SHI "Navair 173" departed Rockhampton Airport for Toowoomba and Archerfield.

And Air Link (Dubbo) Cessna 510 Citation Mustang bizjet VH-SEQ made a late visit into Moranbah Airport from Archerfield and Brisbane.

Meanwhile, also on Tuesday 11 February, Meandarra Aerial Spraying Ayres S2R-G10 Turbo Thrush VH-NFN arrived into Rockhampton Airport from the South.  It sounded like the locally-based R-Mach Aviation may have hired it for a while. 

Queensland Government (QGAir) Rescue (State of Queensland) Agusta AW139 helicopter VH-ESZ flew down from Townsville to Rockhampton Airport, Bundaberg Airport and then Archerfield. 

And Southern Air Beech 1900C VH-VSO flew up from Devonport to Archerfield then up to Townsville before then completing three return flights from there to Charters Towers Aerodrome.  It then returned to Archerfield late in the afternoon.

Photo taken by Steve Vit  ©

RAAF Boeing B737-7ES / E-7A Wedgetail A30-003 "Mitchel 01" Completes a Missed Approach at Hervey Bay (Fraser Coast) Airport

On Monday 10 February, Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Boeing B737-7ES / E-7A Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) aircraft A30-003 was noted completing a missed approach at Hervey Bay (Fraser Coast) Airport.

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A30-003 was flying as "Mitchel 01" and looked to visit Hervey Bay Airport from RAAF Base Williamtown near Newcastle in New South Wales.

Photo taken by David Geck  ©

New Zealand Based (American Registered) Dassault Falcon 900EX Bizjet N146EX Arrives into Hamilton Island Airport - Plus More!

On Monday 10 February, New Zealand based (American registered) Dassault Falcon 900EX bizjet N146EX arrived into Hamilton Island Airport from Sydney.

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UPDATE!  On Thursday 13 February, N146EX departed Hamilton Island Airport for the Gold Coast.  It then flew onwards to Auckland, New Zealand.

Robindale Group / Air Link Cessna 510 Citation Mustang bizjet VH-CMK flew up from Orange to the Sunshine Coast and then Bundaberg Airport. Later, it flew across to Emerald Airport.

UPDATE!  On Wednesday 12 February, VH-CMK departed Emerald Airport and returned to Bundaberg Airport and then the Sunshine Coast and Orange.

Hughes Aviation (Hughes Pastoral Group) (Gympie) Pilatus PC-12/47E NGX VH-8HP continues to fly around the region.  From early in the morning, it flew a round trip from Mackay Airport to Cairns, Tumbar Station, Bundaberg Airport and back to Mackay Airport.  Then during the afternoon, it flew down to Emerald Airport and Keeroongooloo.

Flylink Aviation College Diamond DA 40 VH-EUU flew out from Archerfield to Roma Airport and then Longreach Airport.  It looked to be planned to return to Archerfield over that route on Tuesday 11 February.

Finally, over the weekend, on Sunday 9 February, visitors to the Labona Station Airstrip within Adani Australia's (Bravus Mining & Resources) Carmichael Coal Mine site included Cleveland Bay Aviation (Townsville) Piper PA-31-350 Navajos VH-XMC and VH-JVD (which is registered in NSW) which flew down from Townsville to Labona and then operated between Labona and Emerald Airport.

While on Saturday 8 February, Brisbane-based Crockett Aviation Group Beech B200 King Air VH-FAQ as "Navair 173" and AERgO Asset Management Beech B200 King Air VH-XGV as "Navair 179" called into Labona from the Sunshine Coast, Townsville and Cairns at various times.

Also on Saturday 8 February, re-registered Winton-based Cessna 177 VH-DZF departed my local Clermont Aerodrome for Dalby.  It was later noted heading further South towards Boonah.

Photo taken by Tony Haynes  ©

A Third Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) Boeing CH-47F 'Foxtrot' Chinook Helicopter Passes Through Rockhampton Airport Heading to Townsville

On Friday 7 February, a third Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) Boeing CH-47F 'Foxtrot' Chinook helicopter '88165' was noted passing through Rockhampton Airport as "Concorde", looking to head up to Townsville to provide further assistance with the flood relief efforts in North Queensland.

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As with the other Chinooks, it arrived into Rockhampton Airport from the Oakey Army Aviation Centre before later heading to Townsville.

UPDATE!  On Saturday 8 February, RSAF Chinook '88165' again as "Concorde" was photographed flying back into Rockhampton Airport from Townsville and before it then continued back to Oakey.  The other two RSAF Chinooks remain in Townsville.

As we've mentioned previously, the RSAF Chinooks are flown by the RSAF's 127 Helicopter Squadron which is based at the Sembawang Air Base (SBAB) in Singapore, with a detachment at Oakey.

The squadron goes by the motto of "Strength, Courage, Swiftness", the motto is supported by the squadron motif, a white horse in full battle armour.  

The Chinook '88165' also features an attractive commemorative tail livery to celebrate the 25th year of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) Oakey detachment in 2023.

Photos taken by Steve Vit  ©

Eagle One Aviation (Navair Flight Operations) Cessna 525B CitiationJet CJ3+ Bizjet VH-X8X "Navair 143" Pops into Hamilton Island Airport - Plus More!

On Friday 7 February, Eagle One Aviation (Navair Flight Operations) Cessna 525B CitiationJet CJ3+ bizjet VH-X8X as "Navair 143" flew up from Bankstown to Hamilton Island Airport.  It then flew down to the Gold Coast and back to Bankstown. 

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While Stroud Aviation and Transportation (Boonah) / Navair Flight Operations Cessna 510 Citation Mustang bizjet VH-SHI visited Rockhampton Airport from Archerfield.

And LifeFlight (Aeromed) Canadair CL-600-2B16 Challenger 604 bizjet VH-OFC "Ambulance 634" flew out to Longreach Airport from Brisbane before then landing at Emerald Airport and heading back to Brisbane.

Of interest, VH-OFC "Ambulance 634" has had a busy couple of days late this week, visiting Rockhampton Airport and Mackay Airport twice.

Fellow LifeFlight Challenger 604 VH-OFB "Ambulance 624" seems to be presently based at Townsville and called into Proserpine (Whitsunday Coast) Airport and Mackay Airport earlier in the week.  As did LifeFlight Challenger 604 "Ambulance 614" which also visited Prosie and Mackay Airports but from Brisbane.

And LifeFlight (Aeromed) Bombardier Challenger 604 bizjet VH-URR "Ambulance 604" has returned from a stint in Singapore and visited Barcaldine Airport on Tuesday 4 February from Brisbane.

UPDATE!  On Saturday 8 February, VH-OFC "Ambulance 634" again visited Rockhampton and Mackay Airports while on a flight out of and back to Brisbane.

Meanwhile, also on Friday 7 February, there was a swap of Queensland Government (QGAir) Rescue (State of Queensland) Agusta AW139 helicopters with VH-EZJ arriving into Rockhampton Airport from Archerfield and then departing to Mackay Airport and Townsville.  While Leonardo S.P.A. Helicopter AW139 helicopter VH-EGK flew into Rockhampton Airport from Townsville and then departed to Archerfield.

Townsville based Cleveland Bay Aviation seemed to take delivery of Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain VH-XMC after it flew up from Mackay Airport.  The former Victoria based aircraft looked to arrive into Mackay Airport from Adelaide via Traralgon in September last year having looking like it was grounded in Adelaide since early 2023.

Austrek Aviation Beech B200 King Air VH-ZMW visited Rockhampton Airport from Toowoomba.

And several visitors to the Labona Station Airstrip within Adani Australia's (Bravus Mining & Resources) Carmichael Coal Mine site included a single Skytrans Dash-8 flight from each of Townsville and Rockhampton Airports - plus Seair Pacific (Istlecote) Cessna 208 Caravan VH-TFB from Hervey Bay (Fraser Coast) Airport and then to Cairns - and a pair of Machjet (Machjet International) Beech B200C King Air turboprops VH-ZPY as "Machflight 11" and VH-PUY as "Machflight 73" both from and back to Cairns.

It seems that there were no flights in and out of Labona on Thursday 6 February most likely due to inclement weather.

Finally, also on Friday 7 February, Vee H Aviation (Link Airways) Beech B200GT Super King Air 250 VH-VEW flew from Emerald Airport to Clermont Aerodrome and then to Brisbane.  On Thursday 6 February, and after diverting into Emerald Airport the previous day from Mackay Airport, VH-VEW did the same, flying from Emerald Airport to Clermont Aerodrome and then to Brisbane before it then flew back to Emerald Airport.

And Link Airways (Corporate Air / Vee H Aviation) Cessna 441 Conquest VH-VEH as "Survey 23" completing some aerial survey work in the area, flying out of and back to Emerald Airport.  It had arrived into Emerald Airport from Goulburn via Biloela / Thangool Airport on Thursday.

UPDATE!  On Thursday 13 February, job done, VH-VEH "Survey 23" departed Emerald Airport and returned to Goulburn.

RDO Equipment Co. Pilatus PC-12/47 VH-WPH Pops into Emerald Airport - Plus More!

On Wednesday 5 February, RDO Equipment Co. Pilatus PC-12/47 VH-WPH visited Emerald Airport from its Toowoomba base.

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As mentioned previously, VH-WPH is no stranger to Central Queensland and is unique now that it has been fitted with a 7-bladed propeller which will reportedly generate less cabin noise and provide increased performance allowing for operations into shorter airfields.

Plus AERgO Asset Management Beech B200 King Air VH-XGV as 'Navair 179' flew up from Archerfield to Gladstone Airport before continuing to Rockhampton Airport and then Mackay Airport.

UPDATE!  On Thursday 6 February, VH-XGV "Navair 179" departed Mackay Airport for Townsville and Cairns.

While on Tuesday 4 February, AirMed Australia Cessna 510 Citation Mustang Bizjet VH-PWX as "AirMed 974" landed at Bundaberg Airport from Dubbo and Tamworth.  It then departed to Coffs Harbour.

And DeGunst Transport P/L Textron (Cessna) 208 Caravan VH-NPZ flew up from Bundaberg Airport to Mackay Airport and back.

Photo taken by Trevor Hardsman  ©

New QantasLink Dash--Q400 Next Gen VH-84B (ex C-GENM) First Revenue Flight into CQ at Longreach Airport

On Tuesday 4 February, recently delivered QantasLink Dash-8-Q400 VH-84B completed its first ever revenue flight, and it happened to be into CQ, with it touching down at Barcaldine Airport and then Longreach Airport from Brisbane as QLK2546.

It then departed Longreach Airport and returned to Brisbane as QLK2547.

The second-hand Dash-8-Q400 is the second of 12 (or 14) aircraft that the Qantas Group has purchased from Canadian operator WestJet Encore.  VH-84B previously operated as C-GENM and operated with the airline from August 2013 until August 2024.

The Dash-8 arrived into Australia via Darwin and then Brisbane on Sunday 8 December, still wearing its Canadian registration marking of C-GENM, completing a massive delivery flight from Canada - Eastbound via Europe and Asia. 

It was promptly placed on the Australian Aircraft Register and also given the name 'Winton'.

UPDATE!  On Wednesday 5 February, VH-84B returned back to Longreach Airport from and back to Brisbane as QFA2544/2547.

Photos taken by Gareth Ruhe and Bill Wong  ©

UPDATED! A Pair of The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) Boeing CH-47F 'Foxtrot' Chinook Helicopters Pops into Rockhampton Airport Heading to Townsville

Late on Tuesday 4 February, the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) Boeing CH-47F 'Foxtrot' Chinook helicopter '88168' was spotted arriving into Rockhampton Airport as "Celtic" after flying up from the Oakey Army Aviation Centre.

It looked to be staying at Rocky for the night and it is speculated that it will continue up to Townsivlle to assist with clean-up efforts after the heavy rains and flooding in those parts in the North Queensland.

UPDATE!  On Wednesday 5 February, after some speculation, a second RSAF CH-47F Chinook helicopter touched down at Rockhampton Airport with '88166' also flying up from Oakey but as "Cyclops".

Always great to see the RSAF Chinook helicopters in town.  They are flown by the RSAF's 127 Helicopter Squadron which is based at the Sembawang Air Base (SBAB) in Singapore, however as mentioned, with a detachment at Oakey.

The squadron goes by the motto of "Strength, Courage, Swiftness", the motto is supported by the squadron motif, a white horse in full battle armour.

Photo taken by John Lee  ©

Australian Army (Helicorp) Leonardo (Agusta) AW139 Helicopters VH-YBF & VH-YBG Both Call Into Rockhampton Airport - Plus More!

On Monday 3 February, a pair of Australian Army (Helicorp) Leonardo (Agusta) AW139 helicopters were noted passing through Rockhampton Airport.

They were identified as VH-YBF, flying as "Finch 85" and VH-YBG as "Finch 23".

Both helicopters arrived from the Oakey Army Aviation Centre and then later departed to Mackay Airport where they looked to stay for the night.

UPDATE!  On Tuesday 4 February, VH-YBG "Finch 23" then VH-YBF "Finch 85" both departed Mackay Airport for Townsville. Later, VH-YBG returned South to Mackay Airport as "Warhorse 203" and then flew back to Townsville again.  While VH-YBF operated North of Townsville as "Warhorse 85". 

Meanwhile, also on Monday 3 February, Harris Aviation Charters / Aero-Star Aviation (SA) Beech B300 Super King Air 350 VH-8HA flew up from Toowoomba to Mount Isa and later flew down to Rockhampton Airport.

Vee H Aviation (Link Airways) Beech B200GT Super King Air 250 VH-VEW flew up from Brisbane to Clermont Aerodrome. During the afternoon it departed for Collinsville Aerodrome but could not land due to weather and diverted to Mackay Airport.

UPDATE!  On Wednesday 5 February, VH-VEW departed Mackay Airport bound for Oaky Creek Coal Mine site but again due to weather had to divert, this time to Emerald Airport.

Machjet (Machjet International) Beech B200C King Air VH-PUY as "Machflight 73" arrived into Rockhampton Airport from Cairns and then departed to Karumba.  

And Central Queensland Helicopter Rescue Service (CQ Rescue) / CQ Aeromedical Leonardo AW139 helicopter VH-XQ9 flew from Mackay Airport as "Rescue 402" to Proserpine Hospital and then Townsville.

Finally, on a quiet Sunday 2 February, Brisbane-based Crockett Aviation Group Beech B200 King Air VH-FAQ as "Navair 173" visited Hamilton Island from Archerfield.

Sincere thanks to local plane spotter Scott H for taking the time to capture and send through these great photos!

All photos taken by Scott Harris  ©

Coulson Aviation Sikorsky S-61 Helicopter C-FXEC Spotted at CQ Airports Heading North

On Saturday 1 February, the big Coulson Aviation Sikorsky S-61 Helicopter C-FXEC was photographed at a couple of Central Queensland Airports as it looked to head up to North Queensland where massive rainfall totals continue to accumulate.

C-FXEC flew up from the Sunshine Coast to Rockhampton Airport and then to my local Clermont Aerodrome.

After parking up for a little while, it then departed to the North-West.

C-FXEC had flown up form Bankstown to the Sunshine Coast via Coffs Harbour the previous day.

UPDATE!  On Sunday 2 February, C-FXEC was spotted soon after arriving into Cairns where it then seemed to be parked up in preparation for upcoming flights.

Of interest, C-FXEC has been part of the National Aerial Firefighting Centre (NAFC) fleet based at Bankstown Airport in Sydney.  The NAFC provides a cooperative national arrangement for the provision of aerial firefighting resources for combating bushfires and other natural disasters.

UPDATE!  On Wednesday 12 February, C-FXEC departed Townsville and returned South to New South Wales via Clermont Aerodrome and Roma Airport.

Photos taken by Steve Vit and Jonathan Williams  ©

Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) (Cobham SAR Services Pty Ltd) Bombardier CL-600-2B16 Challenger 604 Bizjet VH-XNC "Rescue 440" Pops into Rockhampton Airport - Plus More!

On Friday 31 January, Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) (Cobham SAR Services Pty Ltd) Bombardier CL-600-2B16 Challenger 604 bizjet VH-XNC as "Rescue 440" was noted flying down from Cairns to complete airwork of the Central Queensland coast and then landing at Rockhampton Airport.  It later returned to Cairns.

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It seemed to coordinate a search and rescue flight by the locally-based Capricorn Helicopter Rescue Service (CHRS) (Babcock Mission Critical Services Australasia) Bell 412EP VH-EPR as "Rescue 300" which flew out of Rockhampton Airport and headed out on a SAR flight East of Gladstone.

It later refuelled at Heron Island before then returning to Rockhampton Base Hospital. 

Meanwhile, also on Friday 31 January, Western Downs Civil (Chinchilla) Raytheon B200 King Air VH-85H flew up from Archerfield to Chinchilla Aerodrome and then Gladstone Airport before later returning to Archerfield.

Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Boeing B737-7ES / E-7A Wedgetail A30-006 "Wedgetail 14" Completes Airwork at Rockhampton Airport - Plus More!

On Friday 31 January, Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Boeing B737-7ES / E-7A Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) aircraft A30-006 was noted completing airwork at Rockhampton Airport.

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It looked to fly up from RAAF Base Williamtown to complete airwork including a missed approach at Rockhampton Airport. It then flew back down to Williamtown.

A30-006 was heard to be flying as "Wedgetail 13".

Meanwhile, also on Friday 31 January, Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Boeing C-17A Globemaster III A41-210 as "Stallion 46" flew up from RAAF Base Amberley to a position South of Emerald where it descended to low level and flew up past Emerald and Clermont before then climbing back up to 13000ft.  It then flew down to Rockhampton Airport where it completed a missed approach and then returned to Amberley.

Finally, also on Friday 31 January, Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Alenia C-27J Spartan transport aircraft A34-002 as "Kaos 01" flew up from Amberley and completed airwork and then landed at Bundaberg Airport. It then took off and completed more airwork before then returning to Amberley.

Photo taken by Scott Harris  ©

Brand New Pilatus Australia (SA) Pilatus PC-24 Super Versatile Jet VH-DMS Pops into Mackay Airport - Plus More!

On Thursday 30 January, brand new Pilatus Australia (South Australia) Pilatus PC-24 Super Versatile Jet VH-DMS was noted visiting Mackay Airport from Cessnock.

As shown, the sleek new PC-24 bizjet only arrived into Australia from overseas via Darwin two weeks ago and is pictured above arriving into Adelaide on delivery to its new operator.

While re-registered and AAA Aircraft / Flight Options (Australia) Cessna 550 Citation II VH-VDF visited Bundaberg Airport from the Sunshine Coast. 

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It was re-registered in July last year and was re-painted at Flinders Aviation at Redcliffe in November last year.

And South Australian-based Agusta AW119 MKII helicopter VH-CGW flew up from Wagga Wagga via a few stops to Roma Airport and then Emerald Airport. It later departed Emerald Airport for the North and was last noted around the Whitsundays area. VH-CGW had flown up from Melbourne (Moorabbin) the previous day.

Photo taken by Tony Haynes  ©

Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Alenia C-27J Spartan A34-008 "Wallaby 74" Spotted Completing Airwork at Gladstone Airport

On Thursday 30 January, Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Alenia C-27J Spartan transport aircraft A34-008 was spotted at completing airwork at Gladstone Airport.

It looked to fly up from RAAF Base Amberley towards Biggenden where it descended to low level and then flew to Gladstone. After completing a missed approach at Gladstone Airport, A34-008 continued towards Moura before being seen near Taroom. It then returned to Amberley.

Of interest, A34-008 was flying as "Wallaby 74".

Sincere thanks to local plane spotter Jamie C for taking the time to capture and send through these great photos!

All photos taken by Jamie C  ©

National Jet Express (ex Cobham) Dash-8-Q400 Next Gen VH-IYV First Visit to CQ at Moranbah Airport - Plus More!

Late on Wednesday 29 January, National Jet Express (ex Cobham) Dash-8-Q400 Next Gen VH-IYV made its first visit to Central Queensland, calling into Moranbah Airport on a Fly-in Fly-out (FIFO) chart flight from and back to Brisbane as JTE356/7. 

UPDATE!  On Thursday 30 January, VH-IYV completed the JTE392/3 FIFO charter flight into Rockhampton Airport also from and back to Brisbane.

VH-IYV had flown across to Brisbane from Adelaide over the weekend (pictured above) and completed a charter flight to Far North Queensland at the start of the week. 

Both 'usual' NJE Dash-8-Q400s VH-8QA and VH-8QB continue to operate their FIFO charter flights into Moranbah Airport.

Meanwhile, also on Wednesday 29 January, Link Airways (Corporate Air / Vee H Aviation) SAAB 340B+ turboprop VH-VEB was also noted visiting Moranbah Airport from Brisbane.

Southern Air Beech 1900C VH-VSO completed a visit to Emerald Airport from Archerfield and Toowoomba-Wellcamp. It also looks to be making a visit on Thursday 30 January.

Airlie Beach-registered Piper PA-46-600TP VH-T43 departed the Whitsunday Airport at Shute Harbour to Griffith.

Seair Pacific / Istlecote Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX VH-MIF flew up to Middlemount Aerodrome from Lady Eliott Island. It then flew down to Maryborough Airport and then Hervey Bay (Fraser Coast) Airport.

Photo taken by Tony Haynes  ©

Nauru Airlines Boeing B737-319 VH-XNU Calls into Mackay Airport - Plus More!

On Tuesday 28 January, Nauru Airlines 'classic' Boeing B737-319 VH-XNU was spotted on the ground soon after arriving into Mackay Airport from Brisbane as RON642.  After some time on the ground, it returned to Brisbane after dark but as RON643.

It has been suggested that this flight - like the one by Air Nauru B737-300 VH-PNI last week - was a closed Fly-in Fly-out (FIFO) charter flight.

UPDATE!  On Wednesday 29 January, VH-XNU returned to Mackay Airport again from and back to Brisbane as RON642/3.

Meanwhile, also on Tuesday 28 January, S&S Aviation / Business Aviation Solutions Bombardier CL-600-2B16 Challenger 604 bizjet VH-XPA visited Proserpine (Whitsunday Coast) Airport again from the Gold Coast.

Brisbane-based Teys Australia Cessna 525 Citation CJ2 bizjet VH-TEY arrived into Rockhampton Airport from Archerfield and Biloela / Thangool Airport.

UPDATE!  On Wednesday 29 January, VH-TEY departed Rockhampton Airport for Miles Airport and then back to Archerfield.

And Bowenville based (operated by Real Time Aviation - Brisbane) Cessna 525 CitationJet CJ1+ bizjet VH-JSZ flew up from Archerfield to Natal Downs and then down to Clermont Aerodrome and across to Rockhampton Airport.  It then returned to Archerfield.

UPDATE!  Late on Wednesday 29 January, VH-JSZ flew into Rockhampton Airport from Archerfield and then departed to Mackay Airport and Clermont Aerodrome before then returning to Archerfield.

UPDATE!  On Friday 31 January, VH-JSZ visited Clermont Aerodrome from Archerfield and Dalby.

Finally, also on Tuesday 28 January, Austrek Aviation Beech B200 Super King Air VH-ZGD flew into Rockhampton Airport from Toowoomba, Port Macquarie and Archerfield.  It then departed back to Toowoomba.

Vee H Aviation (Link Airways) Beech B200GT Super King Air 250 VH-VEW made yet another visit to my local Clermont Aerodrome from Brisbane.

Southern Air Beech 1900C VH-VSO visited Rockhampton Airport from Archerfield.

UPDATE!  VH-VSO completed its weekly visits to Emerald Airport from and back to Tooowoomba-Wellcamp and/or Archerfield on Wednesday 29 January and Thursday 30 January.

Kelsall P/L (Aeronautics and Technology Holdings) Pilatus PC-12/45 VH-PID arrived into Rockhampton Airport from Toowoomba.  It then departed to Bundaberg Airport before later returning to Toowoomba.

And Comet-registered Cessna 208B Grand Caravan VH-RTC flew East from Tobermorey to Longreach Airport, Red Rock Station and then Hedlow Airfield.  It looks to have flown out there the previous day.

Photos taken by 'AC'  ©

VistaJet Bombardier BD-700-1A10 Global 6000 Bizjet 9H-VJH Pops into Hamilton Island Airport - Plus More!

On Saturday 25 January, VistaJet Bombardier BD-700-1A10 Global 6000 bizjet 9H-VJH was noted visiting Hamilton Island Airport.

It was flying as 'VJT884' / "Vistajet 884" and flew down from Cairns after arriving there the previous day from Hawaii (as shown above).

The sleek bizjet then departed back to Cairns to meet Australian Border Force requirements before it then continued to Phuket.

This is the second lovely VistaJet Global Express bizjet to call into Hamilton Island Airport within a week with VistaJet Bombardier BD-700-2A12 Global 7500 bizjet 9H-VIK as 'VJT712' / "Vistajet 712" visiting last Saturday - see Blog post below!

Meanwhile, also on Saturday 25 January, LifeFlight (Aeromed) Canadair CL-600-2B16 Challenger 604 bizjet VH-OFA "Ambulance 614" flew down from Townsville and Cairns to Mackay Airport before continuing to Brisbane.

Also during the week, LifeFlight (Aeromed) Canadair CL-600-2B16 Challenger 604 bizjet VH-OFC "Ambulance 634" was noted visiting Hervey Bay (Fraser Coast) Airport as well as Rockhampton and Mackay Airports.

Of interest, LifeFlight (Aeromed) Canadair CL-600-2B16 Challenger 604 bizjet VH-OFB "Ambulance 624" operated more flights to overseas destinations.

Finally, late on Friday 24 January, S&S Aviation / Business Aviation Solutions Bombardier CL-600-2B16 Challenger 604 bizjet VH-XPA visited Proserpine (Whitsunday Coast) Airport from the Gold Coast.

Photo taken by Jonanthan Williams  ©

Tex Onsite (Tex Assets P/L) Aero Commander 500 Aircraft VH-TZS & VH-TXE Come and Go and Mackay Airport - Plus More!

On Friday 24 January, Tex Onsite (Tex Assets P/L) Aero Commander 500-S VH-TZS was noted arriving into Mackay Airport from Townsville.

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Sistership Tex Onsite (Tex Assets P/L) Aero Commander 500-U VH-TXE was then noted departing Mackay Airport bound for Townsville.  It has been undergoing planned maintenance at Mackay Airport.

Of interest, Tex Assets P/L also operates Aero Commander 500-S VH-JPO and Aero Commander 500-U VH-TQA.

Finally, also on Friday 24 January, Link Airways (Corporate Air / Vee H Aviation) Cessna 441 Conquest VH-VEH visited Clermont Aerodrome from Brisbane.

Photo taken by Simon Coates  ©

Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Boeing B737-7ES / E-7A Wedgetail A30-006 "Wedgetail 13" Completes Airwork at Hamilton Island Airport

On Friday 24 January, Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Boeing B737-7ES / E-7A Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) aircraft A30-006 was noted completing airwork at Hamilton Island Airport.

File photo

It looked to fly up from RAAF Base Williamtown to complete airwork including a missed approach at Hamilton Island Airport. It then flew back down to Williamtown.

A30-006 was heard to be flying as "Wedgetail 13".

Photo taken by Scott Harris  ©

Consolidated Pastoral Company P/L Cessna 421C Golden Eagle VH-UTC Calls into Some CQ Airports - Plus More!

Since the start of this week, Consolidated Pastoral Company P/L Cessna 421C Golden Eagle VH-UTC has been noted visiting some different Central Queensland Airports.  It originally flew down from Darwin and landed at Longreach Airport on Monday 20 January.

File photo

It has then visited various locations and looked to call into Rockhampton Airport from the South on Thursday 23 January.  It then returned in that direction towards Biloela / Thangool Airport.

Meanwhile, also on Thursday 23 January, Austrek Aviation Beech B200 King Air VH-ZMW arrived into Rockhampton Airport from Toowoomba.  It then departed to Archerfield and back to Toowoomba.

While The Queensland Government Airwing (State of Queensland) Raytheon B300 Super King Air VH-SGQ flew down from Cairns and Townsville to Mackay Airport and then Rockhampton Airport before ending at Brisbane.  It had flown up to Cairns from Brisbane, making the same stops, on Wednesday 22 January.

Finally, also on Wednesday 22 January, FKG Air (Redjet Aviation) Hawker Beechcraft B200GT VH-FKB flew up to my local Clermont Aerodrome from Toowoomba and Archerfield before later returning directly back to Toowoomba.

Nauru Airlines Boeing B737-300 VH-PNI Pops into Mackay Airport on a Charter Flight - Plus More!

On Thursday 23 January, Nauru Airlines Boeing B737-300 VH-PNI was noted visiting Mackay Airport on what appeared to be a closed charter fight from and back to Brisbane.

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The colourful little Boeing touched down at Mackay Airport from Brisbane as RON906 and returned to the capital soon after as RON907.

Meanwhile, also on Thursday 23 January, the locally-based Embraer EMB-550 Legacy 500 bizjet N142GZ departed Mackay Airport base for Brisbane.

UPDATE!  On Monday 27 January, N142GZ returned to Mackay Airport from Brisbane before then flying down to Melbourne (Essendon).

Mitchell Water Cessna 525 Citation M2 bizjet VH-WMY had another busy day of flying up from Melbourne (Moorabbin) to the Whitsunday Airport at Shute Harbour and then Mackay Airport via Melbourne (Essendon), Ararat and Adelaide (Parafield). It later departed Mackay Airport and returned to Moorabbin.

And ADD Aviation Services / CML No.1 P/L Raytheon Hawker 800XP bizjet VH-OFJ arrived into Hamilton Island Airport from Melbourne (Essendon) and Melbourne (Avalon).

Photo taken by Brodie Lawson  ©

RAAF Boeing B737-7ES / E-7A Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) Aircraft A30-005 "Wedgetail 11" Missed Approach at Mackay Airport

On Thursday 23 January, Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Boeing B737-7ES / E-7A Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) aircraft A30-005 was noted completing airwork at Mackay Airport.

File photo

It was flying as "Wedgetail 11" and looked to fly up to Mackay Airport from RAAF Williamtown to complete the airwork which included a missed approach.  It then departed back to Williamtown.

Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Boeing C-17A Globemaster III A41-210 Low Level over Mackay Airport as "Stallion 32"

On Wednesday 22 January, Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Boeing C-17A Globemaster III A41-210 was noted completing a low-level pass at Mackay Airport.

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The Globemaster flew out of RAAF Base Amberley as "Stallion 32" and headed up to North of Rockhampton where it descended into Mackay and completed a low pass over Mackay Airport.  It then headed over water and then flew South at low-level to East of Gladstone where it climbed and tracked overhead Bundaberg and back to Amberley.

Photo taken by Peter Sajko  ©

Harris Aviation Charters / Aero-Star Aviation (SA) Beech B300 Super King Air 350 VH-8HA Pops into Rockhampton Airport - Plus More!

On Tuesday 21 January, Harris Aviation Charters / Aero-Star Aviation (SA) Beech B300 Super King Air 350 VH-8HA was noted passing through Rockhampton Airport.

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It arrived from Toowoomba, Brisbane and Mount Isa and later returned to Brisbane and Toowoomba.

While both Sydney-registered Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Christian VH-JVD and Piper PA-31 Navajo VH-CYY arrived into Rockhampton Airport from Townsville and then departed to the Labona Station Airstrip within Adani Australia's (Bravus Mining & Resources) Carmichael Coal Mine site. They both then returned to Townsville.

And Mitchell Water Cessna 525 Citation M2 bizjet VH-WMY was noted flying up from Melbourne (Moorabbin) to Archerfield and then the Whitsunday Airport at Shute Harbour. It later flew back to Archerfield.

Photo taken by Gareth Ruhe  ©

Australian Army (Helicorp) Leonardo (Agusta) AW139 Helicopters VH-YQJ & VH-YBG Both Call Into Rockhampton Airport - Plus More!

On Monday 20 January, a pair of Australian Army (Helicorp) Leonardo (Agusta) AW139 helicopters were noted passing through Rockhampton Airport.

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They were identified as VH-YQJ, flying as "Warhorse 203" and VH-YBG as "Wombat".

Both helicopters arrived from Townsville and then later departed to the Oakey Army Aviation Centre.

Meanwhile, also on Monday 20 January, Robindale Group / Air Link Cessna 510 Citation Mustang bizjet VH-CMK flew up from Orange to the Sunshine Coast and then Bundaberg Airport. Later, it flew across to Emerald Airport.

UPDATE!  On Wednesday 22 January, VH-CMK departed Emerald Airport for Bundaberg Airport and then the Sunshine Coast and Orange.

Homada Pty Ltd Cessna 560XL Citation XLS bizjet VH-XCU flew into Hamilton Island Airport from Melbourne (Moorabbin). It later departed to Melbourne (Essendon). VH-XCU also visited Hamo last Monday 13 January.

While re-registered Gippsland GA-8 Airvan VH-88N arrived into Proserpine (Whitsunday Coast) Airport from Latrobe Valley via Dubbo and Saint George.  We presume it has arrived for local tourist operations.

Vee H Aviation (Link Airways) Beech B200GT Super King Air 250 VH-VEW flew up from Brisbane to the Oaky Creek Mine site and the Clermont Aerodrome before returning to Brisbane.

Seair Pacific / Istlecote Textron Aviation (Cessna) 208B Caravan VH-TLH flew up from Hervey Bay (Fraser Coast) Airport, Maryborough Airport and Rockhampton Airport to Middlemount Aerodrome.  It then flew back to Rockhampton Airport and then Hervey Bay Airport.

And late last week, Perri Air / South Burnett Air Services Quest Kodiak 100 VH-8FV looked to fly up from its Dalby base to land at the Central Highlands Aerial Services (CHAS) facility just North of Emerald.  It then looked to spend the weekend flying from there to places like Barcaldine, Longreach and Blackall Airports before returning to Dalby on Monday 20 January.

Photo taken by Scott Harris  ©

VistaJet Bombardier BD-700-2A12 Global 7500 Bizjet 9H-VIK Pops into Hamilton Island Airport - Plus More!

On Saturday 18 January, VistaJet Bombardier BD-700-2A12 Global 7500 bizjet 9H-VIK as 'VJT712' / "Vistajet 712" flew into Hamilton Island Airport from Washington, Denver, Honolulu and Cairns where it cleared Australian Border Force requirements.

After a short time on the ground 9H-VIK departed Hamo and returned to Cairns for parking (as shown).

The locally-based Embraer EMB-550 Legacy 500 bizjet N142GZ returned to its Mackay Airport base from Brisbane after flying down last weekend.

While a nice little corporate we haven't seen for a little while in the form of Avcair (Avgunn) LearJet 60 bizjet VH-ILJ was noted flying down from Longreach Airport to Brisbane. It had arrived from Mount Isa the previous day as shown.

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It seems that VH-ILJ has spent a lot of recent times flying from Brisbane to various destinations in Asia and the Middle East.

Also noted visiting Longreach Airport also on Saturday 18 January was Machjet (Machjet International) Cessna 525A Citation CJ2 bizjet VH-ZIY as "Machflight 41".  It arrived from the Sunshine Coast and later returned there but via Brisbane.

And LifeFlight (Aeromed) Canadair CL-600-2B16 Challenger 604 bizjet VH-OFA "Ambulance 614" flew up from Brisbane to Longreach Airport.  It then flew to Cairns and then down to Proserpine (Whitsunday Coast) Airport and Mackay Airport before it then returned to Brisbane.

It was a busy week for VH-OFA which also visited Rockhampton and Gladstone Airports during the latter part of the week.

Plus LifeFlight (Aeromed) Canadair CL-600-2B16 Challenger 604 bizjet VH-OFB "Ambulance 624" has completed two big overseas trips in the last week or so but managed to visit both Rockhampton and Mackay Airports on Wednesday 15 January.

Meanwhile, also on Saturday 18 January, Kennedy Aviation / Kennedy Air-Ag Air Tractor AT-802A 'Fire Boss' water bombing aircraft VH-XAJ as "Bomber 455" arrived into Longreach Airport from Gunnedah and departed to Mount Isa to assist with a bushfire emergency.

It joined VH-AWU which arrived into Mount Isa on Thursday 16 January, flying up from Toowoomba via Roma Airport and Longreach Airport.

Photo taken by Jonathan Willimas ©

Virgin Australia (ex REX Airlines) Boeing B737-8FE(WL) VH-REX (ex VH-VUU) Makes First Visit to CQ at Proserpine (Whitsunday Coast) Airport

On Saturday 18 January, there was an interesting 'first visit' into Central Queensland with Virgin Australia Airlines Boeing B737-8FE(WL) VH-REX calling into Proserpine (Whitsunday Coast) Airport from and back to Brisbane as VOZ1117/8.

But technically, it isn't the first visit by this particular airframe - MSN 36609 / LN 3232.

The 14.8-year-old airframe was originally flown by Virgin Blue / Virgin Australia from 2010 to 2020 with the registration marking of VH-VUU.

In 2020, it was initially stored at Melbourne (Tullamarine) before being stored at Jakarta in Indonesia.  The aircraft was then re-registered as VH-REX and re-painted into full Regional Express (REX) Airlines livery with it being delivered and entering service in February 2021.

When REX's jet operations collapsed in 2024, VH-REX was withdrawn from service and again stored at Tullamarine before being again moved to Jakarta.  In November 2024, VH-REX returned to Tullamarine before then being re-painted back into full Virgin Australia Airlines livery at Wagga Wagga.

VH-REX entered service with Virgin Australia on Tuesday 24 December.

Of interest, VH-REX is the first of two former Virgin Australia and REX Airlines aircraft to re-enter service with Virgin with Boeing B737-800 VH-RQP also starting flying with Virgin on earlier this month after also arriving back from Jakarta in December and then also being re-painted at Wagga Wagga.

Photos taken by Ryan Hothersall, Bernie Proctor and Robert Myers  ©