Qatar Airways to acquire minority stake in Virgin Australia
Qatar Airways is reportedly looking to acquire a 25% equity On Virgin Australia. Subject to regulatory approval, the investment will allow Qatar Airways to leverage the scale and expertise of its global network, enabling Virgin Australia to launch long-haul flights to Doha from Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney. Not only will this provide travelers with more loyalty benefits, but there will also be opportunities to connect itineraries across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Air New Zealand returns to Hobart
Air New Zealand will resume operations from October 27 Seasonal direct flights between Auckland and Hobart. The flights operate three times a week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, using the airline’s A320neo and A321neo aircraft. With over 600 seats available each week, customers will have great opportunity to take advantage of the updated ‘Seats to Suit’ option.
Jetstar to launch flights between Sydney and Hamilton
From 16 June 2025, Jetstar will begin operating flights to and from sydney and hamilton. The service will operate four times a week and will add more than 75,000 new seats across the Tasman region, providing passengers with more choice and flexibility.
Brisbane Airport to undergo major transformation
Brisbane Airport is undergoing a major transformation Over the next few years, this marked the most significant changes to the terminal since it opened 29 years ago. The departures area will have self-service check-in kiosks and baggage drop facilities, and security and passport control will be moved from level 3 to level 4. In addition, the duty-free zone will be expanded to include 31 new dining venues and specialty stores. The new security system will be in place by the end of 2025, with other changes to be completed in phases through 2027.
Qantas completes first A380 flight between Australia and South Africa
At the end of September, Qantas completed its first Airbus A380 flight between Australia and South Africa. Flights from Sydney to Johannesburg will operate up to six times a week, accommodating 485 passengers in four cabins, including 14 first class suites in a unique 1-1-1 layout. Click here Learn more about this new route.
UK introduces new travel rules
From January 2025, Australians traveling to the UK will need to complete a new form before flying. This is an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) and must be completed and approved online before departure. ETA is a digital visa-free scheme mainly used for business and leisure purposes, with travelers paying a £10 (AU$20) fee. While this is already required for visitors from Gulf countries, it is being rolled out globally in two phases. To find out more about how to apply, Click here.
Virgin Australia to retrofit Max-8 aircraft and acquire Rex aircraft
Virgin Australia has announced it will retrofit existing Max-8 aircraft and acquire Rex aircraft due to delays in the airline’s supply chain. This is to ensure the airline has a stable pipeline of aircraft into service, allowing it to flexibly meet customer demand. To learn more about airline fleets, Click here.
Emirates to resume daily flights to Adelaide
Emirates will resume operations from October 28 There are daily flights between Adelaide and the Dubai aviation hub. The flights will be operated using long-range Boeing 777-200LRs, offering passengers a choice of 38 business class flat-bed seats and 264 economy class recliners. The flight schedule for these 13-hour flights is designed to align with the airline’s “Best European Arrival and Departure Times”, providing seamless connections to European and UK destinations.
