By aviation writer Scott Mayman

Canberra’s role in Australia’s newest airline remains unclear, despite Koala Airlines revealing more details about its planned launch later this year.

The start-up carrier has outlined a revised business model that will focus on charter flights feeding passengers on to international airlines, rather than competing directly with Qantas and Virgin Australia on domestic routes.

Chief executive Bill Astling told Bloomberg the airline plans to operate three leased Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, subject to regulatory approvals, including certification to use the aircraft type in Australia. The jets have reportedly already been secured.

Mr Astling said Koala Airlines would avoid direct competition with the major domestic carriers, with the company not expecting to sell its own tickets through its website.

In a social media post, he said the airline remained committed to establishing “a credible third airline alternative” in Australia.

Despite earlier promotional material featuring a Koala Airlines aircraft flying over Canberra, the company has not confirmed whether the national capital will be part of its network.

That has left questions over whether Canberra Airport could play a role in the airline’s operations, either as a charter base or through connections with international services.

Koala Airlines has not responded to requests for further information about its planned routes or whether Canberra is under consideration.

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