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Oceania

AFTA priorities fight for free and open travel for 2022

Kristin Mariano Jan 20, 2022

The Australian Federation of Travel Agents’ fight for free and open travel and additional financial support for the sector, the apparent uniform decision by carriers to reduce commission to…

Volcanic Ash Cloud Forces Airlines To Cancels Fiji Flights

Joe Cusmano Jan 19, 2022

The eruption of Tonga’s underwater volcano over the weekend is causing airlines to cancel flights between Australia and Fiji.

Australian Man Cannot Leave Israel for 8,000 Years

Joe Cusmano Jan 15, 2022

Various travel bans and limitations have become the norm over the last two years, but one Australian man has been banned from leaving Israel until the year 9999 because of unpaid child…

Airlines and Aviation

Jetstar Starts Services to Phuket, Holydays in Thailand Are Back

Joe Cusmano Jan 15, 2022

Thailand holidays are back, with Jetstar’s first flight to Phuket since borders reopened, departing from Sydney on Wednesday and Melbourne yesterday.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas To Reduce Capacity Due To COVID-19 Rise

Joe Cusmano Jan 15, 2022

In response to an increase in COVID-19 infections, Qantas has reduced nearly a third of its projected domestic and international capacity in the March quarter.

Covid Isolation Causes The Cancellation Of 78 Flights In Sydney

Joe Cusmano Jan 13, 2022

Omicron is still wreaking havoc on the airline industry, as demonstrated by the fact that Sydney Airport was forced to cancel nearly 80 flights on Tuesday due to the isolation of aviation…

STAAH unveils top 10 online booking channels for 2021

Megha Paul Jan 12, 2022

STAAH, one of the leading cloud-based hotel distribution and guest booking platforms, has unveiled the lists of online channels that brought the greatest booking revenue to hotels and…

Airlines and Aviation

Rex Plans To Mandate Booster Shots For Staff

Joe Cusmano Jan 12, 2022

A report from Australian Aviation reveals that Rex will become the country’s first airline to require its employees to receive booster shots.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia Cuts Capacity And Stops International Flights

Joe Cusmano Jan 12, 2022

Given the current Omicron outbreak, Virgin Australia has announced that it will reduce its flight capacity by 25% in January and February and suspend its newly reinstated only international…

The Langham, Gold Coast set to open in 2022

Kristin Mariano Jan 12, 2022

Langham Hospitality Group will be managing its third luxury hotel in Australia.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas Resumes Flights To Johannesburg After A Lengthy Absence

Joe Cusmano Jan 11, 2022

Qantas will resume its operation in South Africa, with the flight landing to Johannesburg for the first time since early 2020 and the first “rescue flights” to bring Australians back home.

Australia Eliminates PCR Tests For International Arrivals

Joe Cusmano Jan 10, 2022

Anyone who has been feeling apprehensive about taking a PCR test on arrival back into Australia, this is good news.

Test Wait Times And Isolation Cancel 80 Sydney Flights

Joe Cusmano Jan 7, 2022

Australians face the possibility of missing out on their summer vacations because of long delays in COVID testing.

Lack of consistency Is Holding Australians To Travel

Joe Cusmano Jan 7, 2022

A poll commissioned by the Australian Airports Association indicated that more than six out of ten travellers were discouraged from booking flights because of border restriction…

Airlines and Aviation

Airline Start-Up In Australia: What Makes It So Challenging?

Joe Cusmano Jan 6, 2022

Bonza, a new low-cost airline with big plans for Australia, will launch in mid-2022.

The Federal Government Pledges $78 Million In Aid To The Aviation Sector

Joe Cusmano Jan 5, 2022

As part of the post-COVID recovery, the federal government has pledged $78 million in additional financial aid to Australia’s aviation sector. In announcing the Aviation Recovery…

Airlines and Aviation

Air New Zealand Suspends Meal Service Onboard

Joe Cusmano Jan 5, 2022

Health and safety concerns over the COVID-19 Omicron model have forced Air New Zealand to halt food serving on aircraft temporarily.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas Returns A380 Sooner To Relieve B787 Pilots

Joe Cusmano Jan 4, 2022

Qantas is speeding up the first of its iconic A380 superjumbos back into service this month to relieve pressure on pilots of its Boeing 787 Dreamliners in Queensland.

AIME confirms Australian Convention Bureaux for 2022 Event

Kristin Mariano Jan 4, 2022

Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME), the leading meetings and conventions event in the Asia Pacific region, has today revealed that almost all of Australia’s Convention Bureaux…

Australia relaxes testing rules amid Omicron surge

Megha Paul Dec 31, 2021

Australia has narrowed its definition of close contacts of coronavirus cases and relaxed requirements for COVID-19 tests

Cruising (Ocean) - Partner Content

PONANT Mediterranean 2022 – More cruises than ever before!

Kristin Mariano Dec 28, 2021

Embark on a Mediterranean cruise and enjoy a taste of the "dolce vita" to experience an exotic escape with PONANT on a small-ship luxury cruise.

Accor’s The Sebel brand arrives in the Whitsundays

Kristin Mariano Dec 27, 2021

Accor has opened its first The Sebel branded property in the Whitsundays in heart of tropical north Queensland with the opening of The Sebel Whitsundays Airlie Beach today.

A healthy Australian aviation industry needs a healthy Australian travel industry

Kristin Mariano Dec 27, 2021

Australia’s Aviation Industry will only recover fully if Australia has a healthy outbound travel sector and that won’t happen without ongoing Government Support for Australia’s travel…

November Saw A Huge Increase In Passengers At Sydney Airport

Joe Cusmano Dec 25, 2021

After very subdued numbers in October, passenger traffic at Australia’s busiest airport, Sydney, increased in November.

How Will Travel Be In 2022 And What Will Change

Joe Cusmano Dec 25, 2021

On March 1, 2020, Australia announced the first COVID-19 death: a 78-year-old Perth man who was a passenger on the Diamond Princess and had been evacuated and treated in Western Australia.

Airlines and Aviation

Air NZ Cancels Hundreds Flight As Country Reopening Delayed

Joe Cusmano Dec 25, 2021

Due to the current Omicron outbreak, the New Zealand government has postponed the planned commencement of quarantine-free travel for its citizens and residents until the end of February.

Airline fees negatively impact consumer and travel businesses – AFTA

Kristin Mariano Dec 24, 2021

Fee changes, which predominantly relate to airline commissions, will have a detrimental impact on choices for Australian consumers, according to the Australian Federation of Travel Agents…

Post Pandemic Sea Of Change Predicted For Two Australian States

Joe Cusmano Dec 23, 2021

After two years of Covid closures in Victoria and New South Wales, an increase in interstate arrivals to Queensland in 2022 is expected.

Australian Airlines Launch “No More Carry On” Campaign

Joe Cusmano Dec 23, 2021

No More Carry On, a combined effort, urges or patience and preparedness as travellers, airline crews, and airport staff navigate a return to widespread flying and COVID-19-related travel…

Airlines and Aviation

Air New Zealand seeking innovators for next generation aircraft

Kristin Mariano Dec 23, 2021

Air New Zealand wants to get a zero-emissions aircraft in the air in the next five years and is calling on traditional aviation manufacturers as well as entrepreneurs and innovators from…

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas Restarts Sydney-Singapore-London Flights

Joe Cusmano Dec 22, 2021

On March 27 of 2022, Qantas’ flagship QF1 flight from Sydney to London will once again have a stopover in Singapore, with the return of the Airbus A380 on June 19.

New Zealand’s border reopening delay results in flight cancellations

Megha Paul Dec 22, 2021

Following the New Zealand government’s announcement delaying the start of non-MIQ travel, Air New Zealand will cancel around 120 services through to the end of February

NSW And Vic. Update Entry Requirements For International Visitors

Joe Cusmano Dec 22, 2021

International arrivals and aircrew no longer need to be isolated for 72 hours after entering NSW or Victoria, but both governments have instituted additional testing requirements.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia Takes-Off With First International Flight

Joe Cusmano Dec 22, 2021

With its new daily Fiji service, Virgin Australia has restarted commercial international flights for the first time since the beginning of the COVID crisis.

PONANT Luxury Expeditions return to Antarctica!

Kristin Mariano Dec 22, 2021

PONANT has successfully returned to Antarctica with four Luxury Expedition Vessels exploring the region.

Qantas To Become Sustainable On Core Long Haul Route

Joe Cusmano Dec 17, 2021

Qantas is making significant changes to flights on one of its main routes in a first for Australian airlines.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas Announces Staggering Loss After An Unprecedented Year

Joe Cusmano Dec 17, 2021

Quarterly losses of more than $1.1 billion are expected, although Qantas says it has made progress in decreasing its debt.

Visiting The U.S. Is Easy Now: Here Is What You Need to Know

Joe Cusmano Dec 17, 2021

Australian visitors can enter the United States for pleasure and business purposes once again.

Cruise ship ban extended to 2022

Joe Cusmano Dec 16, 2021

The cruise industry in Australia has taken another blow as Saturday, Australia extended its ban on cruise vessels entering the country, according to a statement by the country’s Health…

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas Launches Direct Flights To Rome In 2022

Joe Cusmano Dec 16, 2021

Last September, Qantas announced a significant change to the non-stop Perth to London flight, suspending Australia’s only non-stop flights to the UK, citing Western Australia border…

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia Announces Partnership With United Airlines

Joe Cusmano Dec 16, 2021

Virgin Australia Group said today that it will partner with United Airlines beginning in April 2022, increasing the number of U.S. destinations Virgin Australia customers can access while…

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas To Recommence B787-9 Delivery In 2022

Joe Cusmano Dec 16, 2021

Qantas has confirmed that it will take delivery of three further Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners as early as next year, after suspending deliveries in May 2020.

Reopening updates

Virgin Australia Launches Celebration Sale As Queensland Reopens

Joe Cusmano Dec 16, 2021

As the Queensland border reopens, Virgin Australia has unveiled a major sale on flights to the state, with some fares as low as $59.

India signs air bubble pact with Australia. Here’s what you need to know

Megha Paul Dec 16, 2021

Australia has finally joined the list of countries that has a travel bubble with India

Reopening updates

Accommodation Association welcomes Australia’s gradual reopening

Kristin Mariano Dec 15, 2021

Accommodation Association welcomed the gradual reopening of Australia including West Australia on 5 February but warned the skills shortage would continue to impact most accommodation…

Western Australia to reopen borders to international visitors

Kristin Mariano Dec 15, 2021

Western Australia will embark on its Safe Transition Plan as announced last month, to safely ease its hard border controls in line with a 90% vaccination rate on Saturday February 5, 2022.

AIME 2022 to set stage for reconnecting travel biz

Megha Paul Dec 14, 2021

With AIME 2022 showcasing its new event format of in-person and online, buyers can expect an experience like no other to help supercharge business for next year

Airlines and Aviation

Bonza announces 737 fleet expansion to match Rex

Joe Cusmano Dec 10, 2021

The budget carrier’s CEO announced an expansion of Bonza’s 737 MAX 8 fleet of two planes to eight in the first year.

Tourism New Zealand marks 20th anniversary of ‘The Fellowship Of The Ring’

Megha Paul Dec 8, 2021

December 10, 2021 will mark 20 years since the international premiere of the first film in the iconic The Lord Of The Rings Trilogy, The Fellowship of the Ring

Quarantine Free Travel

Travellers from NSW, ACT and Vic will be allowed into Queensland early

Joe Cusmano Dec 7, 2021

Queensland will open its borders to quarantine-free travel for people from interstate COVID hotspots in a week, a week earlier than expected.

THAI starts Phuket-Sydney route to boost Phuket Sandbox programme

Megha Paul Dec 7, 2021

THAI’s chief commercial officer Nond Kalinta said the airline will operate a three-weekly service on the Phuket-Sydney-Phuket

Reopening updates

NSW and VIC will keep borders open

Joe Cusmano Dec 7, 2021

Despite fears that the Omicron variant will spread between states, Victoria and NSW will keep their borders open, Covid restrictions also eased.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas To Offer All A380 Seats To Frequent Flyers

Joe Cusmano Dec 7, 2021

Has the pandemic prevented you from redeeming many of your Qantas points? Qantas is giving some amazing deals right now, so take advantage of them.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas Sydney to Delhi inaugural flight takes off

Joe Cusmano Dec 7, 2021

A nonstop Qantas flight from Sydney to Delhi took off on Monday morning, marking the airline’s first journey to the Indian metropolis in more than 40 years.

A Christmas gift from PONANT

Kristin Mariano Dec 6, 2021

It's time for your clients to get ready for their next voyage with PONANT and lock in their travel plans for 2022 & 2023!

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia Partners With Link To Re-start Sydney-Canberra

Joe Cusmano Dec 6, 2021

Virgin partnered with Link Airways to restart regular flights between Sydney and Canberra, which were suspended at the start of the pandemic.

Rebel Wilson invites fellow Aussies to Fiji

Kristin Mariano Dec 6, 2021

Australian actress Rebel Wilson stars in a new campaign for Tourism Fiji as the country opened for quarantine-free travel for fully-vaccinated travellers from selected travel partner…

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia reports AUD3.7B profit

Joe Cusmano Dec 3, 2021

Virgin Australia has reported a $3.7 billion after-tax profit for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021, its first since 2012.

Introducing the Accor Stadium

Kristin Mariano Dec 3, 2021

Accor has won the naming rights for Stadium Australia, with the iconic venue in Sydney Olympic Park to begin the transition to Accor Stadium.

Fiji Welcomes Fully Vaccinated Australians

Joe Cusmano Dec 2, 2021

Concerns about the Omicron strain and additional coronavirus restrictions have indeed been raised not only in Australia but all throughout the world.

International Arrivals Now Subject To Additional Restrictions

Joe Cusmano Dec 2, 2021

International travellers will be required to undergo a 72-hour self-isolation period upon arrival in Australia considering the finding of a new form of COVID-19, the Australian government…

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas Secures Crucial Regulated Longreach Route

Kristin Mariano Dec 2, 2021

The Queensland government has renewed its contract with Qantas to continue serving the northern Queensland communities of Longreach, Barcaldine, and Blackall for another five years.

Western Australia closes border to South Australia

Joe Cusmano Dec 1, 2021

Following recent COVID cases in South Australia and the increased threat of the new Omicron variant overseas, Western Australia has closed its border with South Australia.

New Zealand lays out tourism recovery roadmap

Megha Paul Dec 1, 2021

New forecasts for New Zealand tourist recovery suggest it would take until 2024 for the industry to return to its "new normal."

Fiji proceeds with border reopening despite Omicron

Megha Paul Dec 1, 2021

Fiji will press on with plans to reopen its border to international travellers, despite the threat from the newly identified Omicron Covid-19 variant

Airlines and Aviation

Air New Zealand supports sustainably endorsed tourism businesses in New Zealand

Kristin Mariano Dec 1, 2021

Air New Zealand has announced that it will move to sell only activities and attractions awarded a Qualmark endorsement for their commitment to quality, safety and sustainability from 31…

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas Pioneers The World First Green Frequent Flyer Initiative

Joe Cusmano Nov 30, 2021

Members of Qantas Frequent Flyers will now be rewarded for making environmentally friendly decisions both at home as well as on the air.

Have You Checked if Your Passport is Still Valid?

Joe Cusmano Nov 30, 2021

With many Australians keen to travel overseas now that the international travel restriction have been lifted since November 1, there has been a rush on passport renewals – particularly as…

Domestic Flight PCR Tests Will Be Covered By The Government

Joe Cusmano Nov 30, 2021

Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt has confirmed that Australians would not have to spend more than $150 for a PCR COVID-19 test to travel inside the country.

Sydney Airport Arrivals From Southern Africa Test Positive For Covid-19

Joe Cusmano Nov 30, 2021

Urgent genomic testing is underway to ascertain whether two overseas passengers who tested positive for COVID-19 after landing in Sydney are carrying the new Omicron variant.

Airlines and Aviation

Rex beats Qantas in securing prized regulated routes

Joe Cusmano Nov 26, 2021

The Queensland government has awarded Rex a new five-year contract to operate an essential regional aviation route connecting regional communities across central Queensland with Brisbane.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas CEO reveals WA Premier promise on Perth to London flight restart

Joe Cusmano Nov 26, 2021

Premier Mark McGowan promised Qantas head Alan Joyce that the Perth-to-London flight would return.

Air New Zealand set to take off in January

Megha Paul Nov 26, 2021

Air New Zealand has welcomed the news that from 17 January 2022, New Zealanders will be able to travel to and from Australia

New Zealand announced three phases to welcome international visitors

Joe Cusmano Nov 26, 2021

On Wednesday, New Zealand’s COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins outlined the country’s road map out of harsh border restrictions, including double-jabbed Kiwis travelling to and from…

No quarantine for fully vaccinated South Koreans in Australia starting December 1

Kristin Mariano Nov 26, 2021

Tourism Australia is excited to be welcoming back fully-vaccinated travellers from South Korea as it reopens its borders to quarantine-free travel starting 1 December.

New Zealand announces reopening to tourists in April

Megha Paul Nov 25, 2021

New Zealand has announced it will reopen borders to visitors vaccinated against Covid-19 in the opening months of 2022

Airlines and Aviation

Bonza surveys thousands to pick top destinations

Joe Cusmano Nov 24, 2021

Bonza, Australia’s new start-up airline, set to fly in early 2022, has received thousands of entries from Australians outlining their top travel destinations.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas resumes flights from Melbourne

Joe Cusmano Nov 24, 2021

Qantas has announced that it will increase international flights from Melbourne beginning Monday and reintroduce Melbourne-London services beginning this Saturday, for the first time in 20…

Airlines and Aviation

Air New Zealand cancels 1000 flights due to trans-Tasman uncertainty

Joe Cusmano Nov 24, 2021

Due to ongoing border uncertainty between New Zealand and Australia, Air New Zealand has cancelled over 1000 flights between the two countries until December 31, 2021.

Qantas debuts Melbourne-New Delhi flights in December

Megha Paul Nov 24, 2021

Qantas is doubling down on its move into India, launching direct flights between Melbourne and New Delhi for the first time in its history alongside a new service from Sydney set to start…

Why are many Australians cautious to book their holidays?

Joe Cusmano Nov 24, 2021

Many Australians want to travel abroad but figuring out where and when is becoming a huge problem.

Border change announcement helps but greater support is needed, says Accommodation Association

Kristin Mariano Nov 24, 2021

Peak industry body, the Accommodation Association, applauds the Federal Government’s announcement of additional changes to international border arrangements from 1 December.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas and Accor are offering double customer rewards

Joe Cusmano Nov 23, 2021

Members of Qantas and Accor’s loyalty programmes will now have the option to be rewarded twice as a result of their partnership.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia to add seven aircraft to meet growing demand

Joe Cusmano Nov 23, 2021

Virgin Australia said on Thursday that it would add seven additional Boeing Co 737 NG aircraft to its fleet, practically returning it to pre-pandemic levels, to achieve a one-third share of…

Australia opens for fully vaccinated international students

Joe Cusmano Nov 23, 2021

Next month, Australia will be open to fully vaccinated international travellers, students, working holidaymakers, and provisional family visa holders.

Before the summer rush, hotel rates soar in Australia

Joe Cusmano Nov 22, 2021

If you’re considering a trip to the seaside this Christmas, you’ll want to get in quickly, as Australians tend to book their vacations in advance. The cost of lodging in popular tourist…

Hotels in Queensland are preparing to ban unvaccinated guests

Joe Cusmano Nov 22, 2021

Unvaccinated Queenslanders may be barred from visiting holiday locations this summer, with several large hotels stating that they would deny reservations rather than deal with the state’s…

Australia is “Yours to Explore,” says country to Singaporeans

Kristin Mariano Nov 19, 2021

With quarantine-free travel for fully vaccinated citizens from Singapore to Australia commencing from 21 November, Tourism Australia is kicking off a new campaign to encourage Singaporeans…

Airlines and Aviation

Rex finally announces the addition of Brisbane to its network

Joe Cusmano Nov 18, 2021

Rex Airlines is expanding beyond regional flights, adding Brisbane to its domestic network as the independent airline pursues Australia’s so-called “Golden Triangle.”

Your Cruise, Your Way: Exciting Avalon Waterways’ experiences onboard and on-shore

Kristin Mariano Nov 17, 2021

Avalon Waterways’ experiences will bring you once-in-a-lifetime activities and excursions according to your taste at Europe’s great cities.

Rex rolls out wi-fi on its 737 fleet

Joe Cusmano Nov 17, 2021

As it resumed flights between major cities yesterday, Rex has begun gradually putting out Wi-Fi connection equipment throughout its fleet of Boeing 737-800NG aircraft.

Virgin Australia unveils new business & economy class seats

Joe Cusmano Nov 17, 2021

Next-generation business class and economy class seats are being trialled on Virgin Australia’s domestic Boeing 737 aircraft, with two planes being outfitted with the new seats to gather…

Airlines and Aviation

Rex’s deputy chairman claims, Bonza is doomed to fail

Joe Cusmano Nov 15, 2021

The prospective start-up airline Bonza has lately been one of Australia’s foremost aviation stories.

Australia’s travel bubble with Japan and South Korea to start soon

Joe Cusmano Nov 15, 2021

Australia will soon open to two additional countries as the national vaccination rate prepares to reach 90%.

Australia welcomes back Singaporeans

Kristin Mariano Nov 15, 2021

With quarantine-free travel for vaccinated citizens from Singapore to Australia commencing from 21 November, Tourism Australia is kicking off a new campaign to welcome Singaporean citizens…

Australians are undecided on international travel

Joe Cusmano Nov 13, 2021

According to a new study from the University of Queensland, just 51% of Australians want to go abroad now that international borders have reopened.

Vaccination Updates

Air NZ to require vaccine proof or negative test for domestic flights

Joe Cusmano Nov 13, 2021

Air New Zealand has announced it would adopt new guidelines for domestic flights across New Zealand from mid-December, with all passengers required to either produce confirmation of complete…

Airlines and Aviation

First Qantas A380 returns to Australia

Joe Cusmano Nov 13, 2021

Qantas A380s will resume service early next year.

Airlines and Aviation

Keen traveller snaps up dozens of flights in one day

Joe Cusmano Nov 10, 2021

One keen traveller evidently driven stir crazy by the pandemic purchased a staggering quantity of flights in just 24 hours, Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce has revealed.

Tourism New Zealand sets sights on AIME 2022

Chris Head Nov 10, 2021

The AIME Insider is back, and with some exciting news from across the Tasman Sea! We are thrilled to share that Tourism New Zealand will be showcasing at AIME 2022, with not one, but three…

Quarantine Free Travel

The travel bubble with Singapore begins

Joe Cusmano Nov 10, 2021

Today is the first day that Singapore’s ‘Vaccinated Travel Lane’ VTL program enables fully vaccinated Australians to re-enter the country without quarantine.

Sydney Airport to sell for USD 17 billion

Megha Paul Nov 10, 2021

Sydney Airport said it had agreed to USD 17.5 billion takeover bid by an Australian investor consortium, just days after reopening to international travel

Western Australia COVID-19 roadmap to opening state border

Joe Cusmano Nov 10, 2021

WA Premier Mark McGowan has set the lofty aim of 90 per cent immunisation in the people aged 12 and older before he will drop the state’s border.

Have you downloaded your international vaccination passport?

Joe Cusmano Nov 9, 2021

Australians are now able to obtain their proof of vaccination to travel internationally.

Fully vaccinated Singaporeans can enter Sydney & Melbourne quarantine free

Joe Cusmano Nov 9, 2021

Australians were free to travel overseas without prior approval from the country’s federal government from last Monday (November 1, 2021).

Tech unicorn SiteMinder debuts on ASX with oversubscribed AU$627M IPO

Megha Paul Nov 8, 2021

SiteMinder will commence trading on Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) following oversubscribed Initial Public Offering (IPO) of AU$627 million today

Epidemiologist calls for arrival airport testing in Australia

Joe Cusmano Nov 8, 2021

One of Australia’s leading epidemiologists has called for international arrivals to be tested for COVID-19 before leaving the airport.

Indonesia mulls travel lane for vaccinated visitors from Australia

Megha Paul Nov 5, 2021

Travel lane between Indonesia and Australia for those who are vaccinated against Covid-19 is being proposed by the Southeast Asian country’s president Joko Widodo

Reopening updates

Emirates increases services to Australia as borders reopened

Joe Cusmano Nov 4, 2021

With Australia's borders now open to international travellers, Emirates is celebrating by expanding its operations in the country.

Reopening updates

South Australia to ease border restrictions for travellers

Joe Cusmano Nov 4, 2021

Within the next several weeks, South Australia will reopen its borders to people from New South Wales and Victoria.

Airlines and Aviation

British Airways will resume Sydney flights in March 2022

Joe Cusmano Nov 3, 2021

According to Executive Traveller, the British Airways website will once again show availability on flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Sydney (SYD) with a refuelling stop in Singapore…

Tourists will be allowed back to Australia before year-end

Joe Cusmano Nov 2, 2021

Tourists will be able to enter Australia without quarantine by the end of the year, but they must be double vaccinated, according to Scott Morrison.

First international flights land in Sydney after 590 days

Joe Cusmano Nov 2, 2021

For the first time in 20 months, tearful reunions have returned to Sydney Airport, with arriving Australians free to hug relieved relatives and friends waiting to greet them.

Which airlines are operating international flights from Sydney?

Joe Cusmano Nov 2, 2021

More flights will depart Australia beginning this month, as Qantas and Jetstar have moved forwards the restart of some international routes.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas prepares planes for reopening of international travel

Joe Cusmano Nov 2, 2021

Qantas Airways engineers are hard at work preparing the airline's fleet for international flights to commence today, the first day that Sydney is open to fully vaccinated citizens and…

Reopening updates

Australia Removes ‘Do Not Travel’ For UK, USA, Singapore and Fiji

Joe Cusmano Nov 2, 2021

The federal government's global "do not travel" advisory, which applied to all countries except New Zealand, has been lifted ahead of the removal of international border restrictions.

From then to now! Embracing the hospitality and tech evolution

Megha Paul Nov 1, 2021

Kevin Tatem, managing director in South East Asia at STAAH reminisces about the good old days and talks about how innovation in technology and industry transformation has changed our…

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas will resume the A380 services from April 2022

Joe Cusmano Oct 29, 2021

Three months earlier than previously planned; Qantas will resume the A380 service with two superjumbo jets beginning service to Los Angeles in April 2022.

Airlines and Aviation

Before booking flights, Aussies demand money-back guarantee

Joe Cusmano Oct 29, 2021

According to new data, Australians are reluctant to make travel plans as the country prepares to reopen its international borders in November.

New Zealand is easing quarantine but won’t welcome tourists yet

Megha Paul Oct 29, 2021

New Zealand officials have said they will gradually loosen their border quarantine requirements, which have been among the toughest in the world throughout the pandemic

Countries where Australians can travel with no quarantine

Joe Cusmano Oct 29, 2021

Australians won't have to spend a single day in quarantine when visiting nations including the UK, Italy, the US, and Greece.

Airlines and Aviation

Airlines get ready to fly again but what will be the airfare cost

Joe Cusmano Oct 28, 2021

When borders reopen, domestic and international airlines are bracing for a flood of tourists, as well as individuals who have not travelled to see their family in nearly two years.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia launches 1.7M fares sale on the network

Joe Cusmano Oct 28, 2021

Virgin Australia has launched over one million new discount fares across dozens of domestic and international destinations in advance of easing border restrictions and the approaching summer…

Reopening updates

Its official! Vaccinated Australians can enter Singapore on November 8

Joe Cusmano Oct 28, 2021

Singapore's Civil Aviation Authority has announced the expansion of the country's Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) scheme to include Australian passengers.

100% Kiwi! STAAH gets New Zealand FernMark

Megha Paul Oct 27, 2021

STAAH has announced it has recently become a New Zealand FernMark Licensee as FernMark acts as a ‘tick of approval’ from the New Zealand Government and gives confidence to its clients

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas and Jetstar staff to return to work to handle the demand

Joe Cusmano Oct 27, 2021

Qantas has recently announced an accelerated return to service, bringing back more international flights from Sydney and announcing the debut of non-stop flights to India.

AIME partners with CENTREPIECE at Melbourne Park to host 2022 event

Megha Paul Oct 27, 2021

AIME, the leading meetings and conventions event in the Asia Pacific region, has announced CENTREPIECE at Melbourne Park as the official venue to host its 2022 Welcome Event, to be held on…

The rebirth of travel in Australia

Joe Cusmano Oct 27, 2021

The international travel ban in Australia will be lifted on 1 November 2021, when New South Wales reopens to quarantine-free overseas travel for fully vaccinated citizens and residents.

Australia’s travel agents still far from recovery

Kristin Mariano Oct 27, 2021

Australia’s travel agents and businesses have been in hard lockdown for more than 600 days.

Hawaiian resumes flights to Sydney from 15 December

Joe Cusmano Oct 26, 2021

Hawaiian Airlines is the latest international carrier to announce a return to Australia's shores, with plans to operate five flights per week between Sydney and Honolulu beginning on…

Delhi-Sydney boost! Qantas marks India return after a decade from December

Megha Paul Oct 26, 2021

The Australian carrier Qantas will start non-stop services to India after a decade as the carrier will have three-weekly flights between Delhi-Sydney from 6 December

Rex launches sale cheap fares over Christmas going for just $69

Joe Cusmano Oct 26, 2021

Rex is offering a major bargain to celebrate the reopening of Australia's state borders to bring families together in time for Christmas.

NSW initiatives will play major role but recovery will take time

Kristin Mariano Oct 26, 2021

The NSW Government’s ongoing support of the Tourism and Events sector, including this week’s announcement of a AUD530 million recovery package, will play a major role in the hospitality…

Aurora Expeditions celebrates Antarctica return with special offers to inspire discovery

Kristin Mariano Oct 26, 2021

Australia’s award-winning adventure travel company, Aurora Expeditions, has today announced it will be resuming operations in Antarctica, commencing its voyages from Punta Arenas, Chile from…

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia bookings surge after domestic border opening

Joe Cusmano Oct 25, 2021

Following the Victorian and Queensland governments' plan to reopen borders, Virgin Australia has seen a spike in website traffic and booking demand.

Reopening updates

Australia-Singapore ‘travel bubble’ by November

Joe Cusmano Oct 25, 2021

Morrison stated that Australia's travel arrangement with Singapore would be similar to the one it established earlier last week with New Zealand's South Island.

Airlines and Aviation

Cathay Pacific increases frequency to Sydney from November

Joe Cusmano Oct 23, 2021

Cathay Pacific is the latest airline to announce plans to resume service to Sydney on November 1.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia bookings surge after domestic border opening

Joe Cusmano Oct 23, 2021

Following the Victorian and Queensland governments' plan to reopen borders, Virgin Australia has seen a spike in website traffic and booking demand.

Airlines and Aviation

Experts warn that Aussies maybe hit with higher airfares

Joe Cusmano Oct 23, 2021

Experts in the aviation industry have once again warned that Australians returning from overseas will face exorbitant airfares for the next year as the industry gradually ramps up its…

Singapore Airlines delivers Sydney early Christmas gift with return of flagship A380

Megha Paul Oct 22, 2021

Singapore Airlines announced Sydney will once again welcome the carrier's flagship Airbus A380 from 1 December 2021, increasing capacity to the Sydney market ahead of the Christmas holiday…

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas plans to commence ‘Project Sunrise’ flights by 2024

Joe Cusmano Oct 21, 2021

If all goes according to plan, Qantas will fly non-stop from Sydney to London, Paris, and New York City in just over 18 hours as early as 2024 as reported by Executive Traveller.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia brings international flight schedule forward

Joe Cusmano Oct 21, 2021

Flights between Australia and Fiji will resume one week earlier than previously scheduled, thanks to an announcement from Fiji on their tourism reopening plan.

Here’s what to know as Melbourne welcomes vaccinated Sydney residents without quarantine

Megha Paul Oct 21, 2021

Travel restrictions between Sydney and Melbourne, Australia's largest cities, eased on 20 October as Victoria opened its borders to fully vaccinated residents from New South Wales

Qantas launches super sale for domestic flights

Joe Cusmano Oct 21, 2021

Qantas has launched a promotional sale for some flights in response to states and territories reopening domestic borders ahead of Christmas.

Aurora Expeditions certified 100% Carbon Neutral in an ongoing active sustainability plan

Kristin Mariano Oct 21, 2021

Aurora Expeditions is certified 100% Carbon Neutral as part of its long-term and far-reaching sustainability strategy.

Airlines and Aviation

Qatar Airways looks at discontinuing Canberra

Joe Cusmano Oct 20, 2021

Qatar Airways is looking to discontinue the Canberra leg of its Doha-Sydney route, claiming it is "uneconomical" for the airline.

A&K returns to pre-COVID levels

Kristin Mariano Oct 20, 2021

Luxury travel company Abercrombie & Kent is quietly optimistic about the future after seeing a record fortnight of bookings post-COVID.

Vaccination Updates

Australia’s international vaccine passport available from today

Joe Cusmano Oct 19, 2021

Australians who have been fully vaccinated will be able to download an international vaccination passport starting today.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas and Virgin’s bring forward flight schedules

Joe Cusmano Oct 19, 2021

Qantas has moved international flights to London and Los Angeles forwards by nearly three weeks, with flights to these locations now departing on November 1.

Reopening updates

Airlines react to NSW decision to open international borders

Joe Cusmano Oct 18, 2021

Major airlines have reacted quickly to the NSW government's decision to end quarantine for returning Australians, enabling bookings for November, and adding extra flights.

How NSW decision to abolish quarantine will affect other states

Joe Cusmano Oct 18, 2021

NSW will be the first state to accept international travellers without requiring mandatory quarantine.

Vaccination Updates

NSW ends quarantine for fully vaccinated travellers

Joe Cusmano Oct 17, 2021

Beginning next month, the state's border will be open to fully vaccinated Australian residents who will not be required to quarantine in hotels or at home.

Air New Zealand adds quarantine free flights to NSW from 5 November

Megha Paul Oct 15, 2021

Air New Zealand has added quarantine free flights from Auckland - Sydney for Australian citizens or permanent residents

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, Fiji welcomes back guests as it re-opens to the world

Chris Head Oct 15, 2021

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, Fiji, the premier eco-adventure luxury destination in the South Pacific, is more than ready to welcome back its first guests after months being closed to…

Is Australia a big enough market to support another airline?

Joe Cusmano Oct 15, 2021

Bonza promises to be the independent low-cost airline that many Australian consumers have wished for. Still, some are sceptical that the market can support another operator.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia adds three new Gold Coast services

Joe Cusmano Oct 15, 2021

Virgin Australia has launched three new flights between Cairns, Launceston and Hobart, and the Gold Coast as travel confidence improves.

Getting the MICE industry back together

Anthony Gallagher Oct 14, 2021

Travel Daily caught up with the International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) CEO Geoff Donaghy and discussed critical lessons from COVID-19 and the future of MICE in Australia.

Reopening updates

International travel from Australia could be moved to November 1

Joe Cusmano Oct 14, 2021

The reopening of Australia's borders and the implementation of the home quarantine programme might be fast-tracked to November 1.

Qantas to order more than 100 new jets to replace domestic fleet

Joe Cusmano Oct 14, 2021

Qantas CEO Alan Joyce announced a multi-billion-dollar order for over 100 new aircraft to replace its ageing domestic fleet and new long-haul aircraft to fly nonstop to London and New York.

The place where happiness finds you is reopening on December 1st

Kristin Mariano Oct 13, 2021

The island paradise of Fiji, known for its incredible scenery and warm, welcoming people, will be open to visitors once again starting this December.

Airlines and Aviation

The Australia NZ burst bubble hits Air New Zealand

Joe Cusmano Oct 13, 2021

Due to stringent COVID restrictions in Auckland, Air New Zealand is operating at less than one-third of its typical domestic capacity.

How Qantas financial stability was boosted by the pandemic

Joe Cusmano Oct 13, 2021

Qantas' relentless, even ruthless approach has enabled it not just to survive the airline industry's greatest crises but become unstoppable in its own market.

New ultra-low-cost airline Bonza to launch in Australia next year

Joe Cusmano Oct 13, 2021

"Bonza" will be Australia's sole independent low-cost airline specialising in regional leisure destinations, with a fleet of Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets equipped with all-economy seats.

Airlines and Aviation

Jetstar launches promo fare to Fiji from $199

Joe Cusmano Oct 13, 2021

Fiji's government declared two days ago that it will reopen to Australians in December, and it appears that travelling there has gotten a lot easier thanks to Jetstar.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas confirms nonstop Darwin-London service

Joe Cusmano Oct 12, 2021

When international flights resume on November 14 following the reopening of Australia's border, Qantas has confirmed it will run its flagship direct service from Australia to London via…

Scott Morrison confirms no inbound travel till next year

Joe Cusmano Oct 12, 2021

Foreign tourists seeking to visit Australia for a holiday will have to wait until 2022.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas plans to launch new international routes in 2022

Joe Cusmano Oct 12, 2021

After moving through with plans to begin foreign flights in December, Qantas is set to fly to numerous new international destinations next year.

Reopening updates

Fiji to reopen for foreign travel as it hits vaccine milestone

Megha Paul Oct 11, 2021

Fiji will ease Covid-19 restrictions and announce its reopening for international travel after the country hit a vaccination milestone last week

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas operates the longest commercial flight in its history

Joe Cusmano Oct 11, 2021

It took the Qantas plane about 18 hours to get from Buenos Aires to Darwin through the Antarctic coast, and it was the airline's longest commercial journey ever.

Suspension of travel bubble with NZ extended

Joe Cusmano Oct 8, 2021

Professor Paul Kelly, Australia's Chief Medical Officer, issued a statement on New Zealand green zone flights owing to the current COVID-19 outbreak in the country.

Airlines and Aviation

QantasLink pilots first to accept two-year salary freeze

Joe Cusmano Oct 7, 2021

As the grounded airline navigates the COVID-19 crisis, approximately 450 regional pilots have become the first large, unionised cohort at Qantas to accept a two-year wage freeze.

Australia won’t welcome international tourists until 2022

Megha Paul Oct 6, 2021

International tourists won't be welcomed back to Australia until next year, with the return of skilled migrants and students given higher priority

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates to back Airbus A380 to Australia

Joe Cusmano Oct 6, 2021

According to Executive Traveller, Emirates plans to resume its flights to Australia with Airbus A380s following the country's return of international travel.

Qantas and Emirates to extend codeshare to 2028

Joe Cusmano Oct 6, 2021

Emirates and Qantas have extended their codeshare agreement for another five years in order to aid in the recovery from the pandemic.

Qantas announces second wave of international flights

Joe Cusmano Oct 5, 2021

Qantas intends to resume international flights to the second group of overseas destinations on March 27, 2022, two years after the pandemic-related grounding.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas sells out some overseas flights

Joe Cusmano Oct 5, 2021

Qantas said some of its December foreign flights were already sold out, particularly to London and Los Angeles.

Searches for Australian international borders soar by 180% since restrictions have been lifted

Megha Paul Oct 4, 2021

Since the announcement of the re-opening of the Australian border, searches for Australia international border have increased by 180% worldwide while ‘flights to Australia 2022’ have…

Air New Zealand to introduce ‘no jab, no fly’ for international travellers

Megha Paul Oct 4, 2021

Air New Zealand is asking customers to get ready for international travel by getting vaccinated from 1 February 2022

Reopening updates

Australia to reopen international border in November

Joe Cusmano Oct 3, 2021

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced that the international border will reopen in November, initially permitting travel for vaccinated citizens and their relatives.

Tourism New Zealand unveils new marketing hub in India

Megha Paul Oct 1, 2021

Tourism New Zealand has launched its 100% Pure New Zealand Marketing Hub in India, housing free and professionally designed marketing assets for travel agents

Australians are eager to travel again

Joe Cusmano Oct 1, 2021

According to the newest Inmarsat Passenger Confidence Tracker 2021, Australians appear to be among the world's most eager to return to the skies.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas plans to launch new international routes in 2022

Joe Cusmano Oct 1, 2021

After moving through with plans to begin foreign flights in December, Qantas is set to fly to numerous new international destinations next year.

Airlines and Aviation

Rex extends suspension of services and stand downs

Joe Cusmano Oct 1, 2021

Following an extension of lockdown for greater Sydney and regional New South Wales (NSW), Regional Express (Rex) will extend its suspension of domestic services and stand-down period for…

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia resumes flights to Fiji

Joe Cusmano Sep 30, 2021

There will be daily flights from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane to Fiji's Nadi Airport in late December, with Virgin Australia joining the list of airlines planning to restart foreign…

Stranded Australians may be offered flights by government

Joe Cusmano Sep 30, 2021

Stranded Australians may be offered seats on additional government-facilitated flights to send as many homes by Christmas as feasible in the coming months.

Qantas updated flight schedule shows interstate travel back on

Joe Cusmano Sep 30, 2021

Qantas has revised its flight schedule as millions of people in Australia's southeast prepare to escape from lengthy COVID lockdowns.

Reopening updates

PM commits to open international travel by Christmas

Joe Cusmano Sep 28, 2021

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has backed the federal tourism minister's estimate that foreign travel will resume "at the very least" by Christmas.

Australian airports ready to facilitate international travel

Joe Cusmano Sep 27, 2021

The Australian government has allocated $64 million in vital overseas passenger security screening at Australia's key international airports as aviation continues its COVID-19 comeback.

Federal government aid for international aviation to continue

Joe Cusmano Sep 23, 2021

Another $184 million will be given to international aviation by the federal government until March 2022 to help the industry weather the current economic downturn.

Australia takes a significant step on vaccine passports

Joe Cusmano Sep 23, 2021

The Morrison government has awarded a contract for new digital passenger declarations to international IT company Accenture, a major step towards the establishment of a vaccine passport for…

NSW trialling home quarantine for vaccinated travellers

Joe Cusmano Sep 22, 2021

The first signs of quarantine in Australia after the country reaches its vaccination targets have been revealed in an NSW pilot 'at home' programme.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas, Jetstar launch promo as states set to reopen

Joe Cusmano Sep 21, 2021

Jetstar and Qantas have launched a promo to entice travellers back to the skies as New South Wales and Victoria get ready to reopen.

Air NZ and Airbus test hydrogen-powered aircraft

Joe Cusmano Sep 21, 2021

Air New Zealand has teamed up with aircraft manufacturer Airbus to investigate the feasibility of adding hydrogen-powered passenger planes to its fleet by 2030.

Airlines and Aviation

Air NZ to operate quarantine flights between Australia and NZ

Joe Cusmano Sep 20, 2021

Air New Zealand announced on Friday (17 September) that it will operate a limited number of quarantine flights between Australia and New Zealand.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas website international flight searchers spike

Joe Cusmano Sep 17, 2021

Searches for flights on Qantas' website have tripled, indicating that Australians are eager to return to international travel.

Airlines may stop flights to Australia ahead of restart

Joe Cusmano Sep 17, 2021

Unfortunately, Australia has a government that is unable to take well thought and planned decisions that would make the country move on and give a little breath to the ailing aviation and…

Border closure have bought the travel industry on its knees

Joe Cusmano Sep 16, 2021

Australians are finding it impossible to plan their vacations because of lockdowns and border closures, and one tour operator has lost $400k in just three months because of the closures and…

Airlines and Aviation

Singapore Airlines suspends services to Australia

Joe Cusmano Sep 16, 2021

Singapore Airlines blamed the cancellation of dozens of pre-Christmas flights on a lack of clarity from the Australian government on international travel.

Trans-Tasman bubble may reopen next year, but not the same as before

Joe Cusmano Sep 16, 2021

Experts say the trans-Tasman bubble is unlikely to reopen as Australia battles the highly contagious Delta variant.

Vaccination Updates

How will the vaccine passport work in each state and overseas?

Joe Cusmano Sep 15, 2021

Vaccine passports will be issued to adults who have been fully vaccinated by the federal government in the coming weeks, as promised by cabinet ministers.

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