By aviation writer Scott Mayman

Koala Airlines has secured three Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, slated to be delivered next year under a lease agreement, says chief executive Bill Astling.

This is the first time Mr Astling has revealed much beyond says the new airline is deliberately keeping a low profile as part of a disciplined, strategic approach.

Koala is planning to take on Qantas and Virgin, but not before the the end of next year.

While they’re quoted as saying: “Get ready, Canberra”, and releasing an artist’s impression of a Koala jet over the city, we’ve already seen Rex falter on its flights to Melbourne and tourist airline Bonza never made it to Canberra Airport.