TDM Guest Contributor

Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways Strengthen Sustainability Focus with New MoU

Joe Cusmano Oct 31, 2024 0

Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways have taken a significant step forward in their strategic partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on

TDM Guest Contributor

Qatar Airways to Acquire 25% Stake in Virgin Australia, Strengthening Partnership

Joe Cusmano Oct 7, 2024 0

In a significant move for the aviation industry, Qatar Airways Group has announced its intention to acquire a 25% equity stake in Virgin Australia from

Reports

ATIA lauds Qatar Airways’ investment into Virgin Australia

Marga Manlapig Oct 1, 2024

The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) extended appreciative comments regarding Qatar Airways’ impending investment into Virgin Australia.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia partners with Sabre to pioneer modern airline retailing via SabreMosaicTM

Kanchan Nath Sep 24, 2024

Sabre Corporation and Virgin Australia, one of Australia’s largest airlines, today announced a strategic partnership to modernize the airline’s retailing capabilities through the phased…

Global

Virgin Australia and Tourism & Events Queensland present limited-run fare sale

Marga Manlapig Sep 17, 2024

Virgin Australia and Tourism and Events Queensland are currently running a major online sale featuring over half a million fares to the sunshine state ranging from as low as $45.

Air

Virgin Australia enhances technical partnership with Amadeus

Marga Manlapig Sep 10, 2024

Virgin Australia announced that it recently expanded its distribution agreement with aviation IT solutions provider Amadeus following renewal.

TDM Guest Contributor

Virgin Australia to Cease Cairns-Tokyo Flights Due to Slow Recovery Post-COVID

Joe Cusmano Jul 28, 2024 0

Virgin Australia will discontinue its daily Cairns-Tokyo flight due to the slow recovery of inbound travel from Japan, still 35% below pre-COVID levels.

TDM Guest Contributor

Qatar Airways Eyes Stake in Virgin Australia

Joe Cusmano Jun 30, 2024 0

Qatar Airways, the Qatari Government-owned carrier, has unveiled plans to acquire a 20% stake in Virgin Australia (VA), which could significantly reshape the Australian aviation

TDM Guest Contributor

Virgin Australia Takes Flight: Expanding Horizons Amidst Air Vanuatu’s Turbulence

Joe Cusmano Jun 2, 2024 0

As the aviation industry navigates through the ever-changing skies, Virgin Australia is set to expand its wings, filling the void left by Air Vanuatu’s recent

TDM Guest Contributor

Virgin Australia Increases Flights to Vanuatu Amid Airline Liquidation

Joe Cusmano May 19, 2024 0

Amidst the unsettling news of Air Vanuatu’s grounding and subsequent liquidation, Virgin Australia has emerged as a beacon of hope, ensuring uninterrupted air connectivity between

TDM Guest Contributor

Virgin Australia and DiDi Australia Drive Rewards to New Heights

Joe Cusmano Apr 29, 2024 0

Virgin Australia's Velocity Frequent Flyer loyalty programme and DiDi Australia have announced a partnership. The partnership will offer Australians a new and simple method of earning…

TDM Guest Contributor

Virgin Australia Regional Airlines Crowned 2024 Best Regional Airline

Joe Cusmano Mar 17, 2024 0

Virgin Australia Regional Airlines (VARA) has made history by topping a global list of regional airline operators to clinch the 2024 Best Regional Airline title The post Virgin Australia…

TDM Guest Contributor

Virgin Australia posts $236 million profit but faces challenges ahead

Joe Cusmano Mar 7, 2024 0

Outgoing Virgin Australia CEO Jayne Hrdlicka warned of impending turmoil as the company reported $2.8 billion in sales for the six months ending 31 December, The post Virgin Australia posts…

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia to launch nation’s first-ever pets in cabin flights

Kanchan Nath Mar 7, 2024

The Australian-first service, which will have pet-lovers rejoicing around the nation, is subject to regulatory approval, and is expected to launch within 12 months.

TDM Guest Contributor

Virgin Australia Rolls-Out Baggage Tracking Tool to Entire Domestic and International Network

Joe Cusmano Feb 7, 2024 0

Virgin Australia now offers leading baggage tracking on all domestic and international routes*, including Queenstown, Bali, Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu, and Japan. In a first for Australian…

TDM Guest Contributor

Virgin Australia Will Increase Regional Network with a Link Airways Partnership Deal

Joe Cusmano Jan 22, 2024 0

Virgin Australia and Link Airways have announced a new codeshare partnership set to expand Virgin Australia’s regional footprint significantly, increasing Virgin Australia’s reach into…

Air

Virgin Australia Boosts its Order for 737 MAX-8 Planes

Joe Cusmano Nov 27, 2023

Virgin Australia has added six MAX-8s to its new Boeing MAX family aircraft pipeline, with six more expected for delivery in the second half of 2024, increasing the airline’s total…

Air

Virgin Australia Launches the 2024 Pride Flight

Joe Cusmano Nov 27, 2023

Virgin Australia Pride Flight is back for the fourth consecutive year, with more than 500 tickets currently available to purchase across three main Virgin Australia flights departing…

Air

Virgin Australia Launches Services to Uluru from Melbourne and Brisbane

Joe Cusmano Nov 23, 2023

Virgin Australia announced two additional direct flights from Melbourne and Brisbane will start operating next year, boosting tourism to Uluru. The new services, launched in…

Air

Sir Richard Branson Surprises Virgin Australia Flight With $1m in Free Cruises

Joe Cusmano Nov 20, 2023

Sir Richard Branson surprised passengers on a Virgin Australia flight from Melbourne to Hobart (VA1316) with a FREE cruise to celebrate Virgin Voyages’ debut in Australia next month.…

Air

Virgin Australia Ousts Qantas As The Most Trusted Airline

Joe Cusmano Nov 1, 2023

Qantas feels the effects of the post-COVID turmoil, while Virgin Australia is reaping the rewards. In the travel and tourist industry, Virgin has replaced Qantas as the most trusted…

Air

Virgin Australia Introduces New B737 Max Domestic Routes

Joe Cusmano Oct 16, 2023

As more of its 737 MAX 8 aircraft arrives, Virgin Australia will use it on additional domestic and short-haul international flights. At the end of September, the airline received its…

Air

Virgin Australia Soars Back To Profitability

Joe Cusmano Oct 14, 2023

Virgin Australia made a nett profit of $129 million after taxes, which was the first time in 11 years that the company made money. Revenue more than doubled from the previous year to $5…

Air

Virgin Australia Will Operate The New B737 Max 8s To Bali And Fiji

Joe Cusmano Oct 9, 2023

Virgin Australia has updated its schedule to include additional international flights using the Boeing 737 Max 8. New international 737 Max routes for Virgin Australia include…

Airlines and Aviation

SriLankan Airlines partners with Virgin Australia

Kanchan Nath Oct 2, 2023

SriLankan Airlines has entered into a first-ever interline partnership with Virgin Australia that will strengthen the airline’s network in Australia

Air

Virgin Australia Launches Luggage Tracking Tool

Joe Cusmano Sep 11, 2023

Virgin Australia launched on Friday the nation’s first-ever airline baggage tracking tool across more than two-thirds of its domestic network tomorrow, allowing guests to know where…

Airlines and Aviation

Explore Queensland with Virgin Australia at flights starting from $49

Kanchan Nath Sep 4, 2023

Aussie travellers can get more for less on their next Queensland getaway with Virgin Australia slashing fares on over 30 flight routes in (and to) the Sunshine State from today Fares from as…

Air

Virgin Australia’s first Boeing 737 MAX to Arrive Today

Joe Cusmano Jun 29, 2023

In what will undoubtedly be hailed by the airline as another chapter in its extraordinary turnaround since collapsing into administration just over three years ago in April 2020, before…

Air

Virgin Australia Tokyo Launches With B737-700 Amid B737-Max Delay

Joe Cusmano May 13, 2023

After Boeing missed its deadline for delivering the airline’s first B737-8s, Virgin Australia will not debut the B737-8 on its first Cairns-Tokyo Haneda service in June. Instead, it will…

Air

Virgin Australia Relaunches Its Popular Service To Vanuatu

Joe Cusmano Apr 11, 2023

Virgin Australia has resumed its popular direct flights between Australia and Vanuatu, significantly strengthening its Pacific connectivity. Return flights from $459 are currently…

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia has resumed services to Samoa

Joe Cusmano Mar 29, 2023

Guests on Virgin Australia’s first flight to Samoa in three years were greeted warmly as a proud Samoan crew operated the flight.

Eturbo News

United and Virgin Australia celebrate LGBTQ Pride on Sydney flight

Harry Johnson Feb 22, 2023 0

by: Harry Johnson | copyright: eTurboNews - Travel Industry News - World Travel News United flight 863 will be operated by United LGBTQ+ pilots and crew, and will connect US travelers to…

Air

Virgin Australia Launches Massive Sale And Corporate Offering

Joe Cusmano Jan 31, 2023

To celebrate the return of business travellers to levels greater than 110% of those seen in January 2019, Virgin Australia has just announced a massive sale on domestic and international…

Global

Virgin Australia Announces New Cairns-Tokyo Flight

Joe Cusmano Dec 15, 2022

Virgin Australia has announced a new international route, with a daily return flight from Cairns to Tokyo (Haneda) beginning on 28 June 2023. The route is being introduced for the…

Airlines and Aviation

Qatar Airways begins partnership with Virgin Australia

Kanchan Nath Sep 9, 2022

Qatar Airways and Virgin Australia, have officially commenced a strategic partnership that significantly expands the networks, lounges and loyalty programs of both airlines, bringing…

Airlines and Aviation

Qatar Airways and Virgin Australia Partnership Kicks Off

Joe Cusmano Sep 9, 2022

Qatar Airways and Virgin Australia have announced the kick-off of their alliance formed in May, which will open up markets in Australia, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa and extend…

Eturbo News

New Samoa flights on Fiji Air, Qantas, Air NZ and Virgin Australia

Harry Johnson Sep 5, 2022

Airlines ramp up their schedules in alignment with operational capacities, regulatory approvals and pent-up demand New Samoa flights on Fiji Air, Qantas, Air NZ and Virgin Australia

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia Orders Four Additional B737 MAX 8s

Joe Cusmano Aug 30, 2022

Virgin Australia has placed an order for four more Boeing 737 MAX 8 planes, raising its potential Boeing 737 fleet to 92. According to a statement issued by the airline, deliveries of…

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia Gets Green Light For Qatar Airways Code-share Fights

Joe Cusmano Aug 29, 2022

Virgin Australia passengers will now be able to jet off to Paris, Milan, and Rome on newly minted partner Qatar Airways, with code-share agreements to the trio of European cities…

Air

Qatar Airways and Virgin Australia launch partnership at ATM

Megha Paul May 12, 2022

Commencing mid-year, the partnership will give travellers greater access, unparalleled customer experience and unique benefits when travelling between Australia and Qatar Airways’ global…

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…

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.

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…

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.

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.

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.

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…

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

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…

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.

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

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.

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.

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…

Virgin Australia puts one million seats on sale

Joe Cusmano Sep 7, 2021

Virgin Australia has launched a sale with booking availability for travel until June next year, sale fares can be booked to popular destinations from now until midnight this Friday, or until…

Vaccination Updates

Virgin Australia launches vaccine incentive competition

Joe Cusmano Sep 2, 2021

Virgin Australia's COVID-19 vaccination incentive programme is ready to go, with "stacks of prizes up for grab."

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia to offer more value in economy 

Joe Cusmano Aug 20, 2021

Virgin Australia has launched three new economy fares today: Economy Choice, Economy Flex, and Economy Lite, each with its own set of booking options.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia joins the campaign to accelerate vaccinations

Joe Cusmano Jul 9, 2021

Virgin Australia Group CEO Jayne Hrdlicka joined other business leaders at the Operation COVID Shield National Business Partnership Forum meeting.

Airlines and Aviation

“Some people may die,” Virgin Australia boss’ insensitive words

Joe Cusmano May 24, 2021

Virgin Australia is still battling a PR nightmare after Jayne Hrdlicka the airline CEO made a speech at the Queensland University of Technology using the controversial statement “some people…

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia updates short-haul international network

Joe Cusmano May 18, 2021

After the federal budget released last week and the shifting projection of the opening of the international border, Virgin Australia also announced changes to its short-haul international.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia reveals the 2020 appalling result

Joe Cusmano May 7, 2021

Virgin Australia lost AUD3.1 billion last year and remains saddled with AUD1.2 billion of debt it carried into administration, according to filings with the corporate regulator.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia launches unprecedented sales on Sydney-Melbourne

Joe Cusmano May 4, 2021

Virgin Australia has launched unprecedented low fare sales between Australia’s two largest cities.

Features

Virgin Australia launches a sales blitz for airfares to Melbourne

Joe Cusmano Apr 27, 2021

Virgin Australia has just launched a sales blitz with fares to Melbourne only starting at $75 including baggage, seat selection and frequent flyer points.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia shapes growth strategies to aid tourism recovery

Joe Cusmano Apr 20, 2021

Virgin Australia Group has announced fast-tracked plans to acquire new aircraft, create more frontline jobs and grow its network to further support domestic tourism.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia brings back hundreds of cabin crew

Joe Cusmano Apr 19, 2021

Hundreds of cabin crew are needed after Virgin Australia negotiated the reintroduction of 10 Boeing 737-800 planes with aircraft lessors.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia Cancel all Short Haul International Flights

Joe Cusmano Feb 4, 2021

Virgin announced yesterday all short-haul international services would be cancelled until June 19.

Guest Column

Virgin Australia Extends Free Booking Flexibility

Joe Cusmano Jan 19, 2021

Virgin Australia announced last week that is offering booking flexibility for travel until 30 June this year.

Virgin Australia CEO Paul Scurrah to step down in November

Chris Head Oct 15, 2020

Paul Scurrah will stand down when Virgin is formally handed in early November and former Jetstar boss Jayne Hrdlicka will take over as CEO.

Brisbane airport’s home carrier Virgin Australia to launch first flight in new runway

Megha Paul Jul 8, 2020

Virgin Australia will be the first airline to depart on Brisbane’s new runway when it officially opens on 12 July 2020. After eight years of construction and five decades of planning,…

Virgin Australia 2.0 takes off! Bain makes a brave bet on the struggling airline industry

Megha Paul Jun 26, 2020

In one of the biggest single bets on the airline industry since it was completely devastated by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Bain Capital has agreed to buy collapsed Virgin…

Airlines and Aviation

Are Chinese airlines planning to snap up Virgin Australia?

Kristin Mariano Apr 23, 2020

Vaughn Strawbridge, administrator in Deloitte Australia that is now handling the case of Virgin Australia, confirmed that there are over 10 parties interested in the troubled airline. But…

Virgin Australia set to go into voluntary administration after failing to secure government lifeline

Megha Paul Apr 20, 2020

Virgin Australia has reportedly filed for voluntary administration, overwhelmed by massive debt brought on by the coronavirus lockdowns. An airline spokesman wouldn’t comment today…

Virgin Australia signs codeshare deal with ANA

Megha Paul Jan 20, 2020

Virgin Australia and All Nippon Airways (ANA) will implement codeshare flights and launch reciprocal frequent flyer benefits for their members. ANA guests will be able to codeshare on…

Global

The search is over: Paul Scurrah is named Virgin Australia CEO

Kristin Mariano Feb 6, 2019

Virgin Australia has announced that Paul Scurrah will be the group’s next chief executive after eight-month search.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia “go beyond basic fare rules” with Sabre

Alastair Newport Oct 18, 2017 10

Sabre Corporation has announced that Virgin Australia has recently implemented Sabre Branded Fares, joining a growing list of airlines globally.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia adds new Canadian connections

Mark Elliott May 30, 2017

Virgin Australia's passengers are now being offered connections to three major Canadian cities, via the airline's trans-Pacific flights to Los Angeles. A new codeshare agreement with…

United States

Virgin Australia kicks off new trans-Pacific route

Mark Elliott Apr 6, 2017

Virgin Australia launched a new trans-Pacific route this week, flying direct between Melbourne and Los Angeles. The inaugural service departed at 1130 on 4 April 2017 and landed at…

Interviews

John Borghetti leads Virgin Australia into bright new era

Mark Elliott Apr 4, 2017

After six years at the helm of Virgin Australia, John Borghetti is as charming, polished and passionate about the airline as ever. He has led the company through many substantial challenges,…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: Virgin Australia, Thai Lion, Air India and more…

Mark Elliott Mar 20, 2017

Bangladesh gets low-cost Dubai link Where? Dubai (UAE) to Sylhet (Bangladesh) When? Four times a week, effective immediately (rising to six per week in May 2017) Who? Flydubai Why? New…

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia to fly to China in major HNA deal

Mark Elliott Feb 23, 2017

Virgin Australia will launch its first ever flights to China - including Hong Kong - as part of a major alliance with China's HNA Group. First announced in May 2016, the partnership…

Eturbo News

Virgin Voyages Begins its Maiden Season in Australia  

Joe Cusmano Dec 12, 2023 0

The Virgin Voyages' Resilient Lady set off from Melbourne to Tasmania on her debut voyage, heralding the start of an incredible and spectacular cruising season. With the characteristic flare…

Technology

Virgin Australia expands long-term partnership with Sabre

Kanchan Nath Sep 21, 2023

Sabre Corporation has strengthened and expanded its relationship with Virgin Australia to allow the carrier to deliver improved retailing capability while supporting its growth objectives.

Cruise

Virgin Voyages’ Major Australia Expansion Confirmed

Joe Cusmano Sep 13, 2023

With US$550 million in the bank for his new all-adults cruise line, Richard Branson has made a major announcement. The cruise line, which will operate in Australia for the first time…

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia implements Sabre’s Revenue Optimizer and Dynamic Availability tools

Kanchan Nath Mar 20, 2023

Sabre Corporation announced the successful implementation of its Revenue Optimizer and Dynamic Availability solutions at Virgin Australia.

Global

Australian travel professionals laud Federal Government’s reforms to Sydney Airport slot management

Marga Manlapig Aug 6, 2024

The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) welcomed the Federal Government’s recent announcement regarding reforms to slot management at Sydney Airport.

Australia

New Australian walking company ‘Iconic Walks’ releases first product range

Kanchan Nath Jul 5, 2024

A new Australian-based walking company has launched its web site and revealed its initial product range offering walks in Australia, Nepal and Canada, and plans for eco lodge accommodation…

TDM Guest Contributor

North American Airlines Abolish Cancellation Fees: A Trend for Australian Carriers to Consider?

Joe Cusmano Jun 3, 2024 0

Airlines in North America have taken a bold step by axing cancellation fees for their flyers, a move that has caught the attention of Australian

TDM Guest Contributor

Australian Aviation Ascends: A Return to the Skies Post-Pandemic

Joe Cusmano May 26, 2024 0

In a remarkable rebound from the turbulence of the COVID-19 pandemic, Australia’s aviation sector has soared back to pre-pandemic passenger and capacity levels, according to

TDM Guest Contributor

Qantas and Virgin Step Up to Assist Stranded Bonza Passengers

Joe Cusmano May 5, 2024 0

In the wake of Bonza’s sudden halt in operations, Qantas and Virgin Australia have stepped up to ensure safe travel for stranded passengers. Both airlines offer free flights to Bonza…

Airlines and Aviation

Bonza: Passengers stranded as Australian airline cancels flights

Kanchan Nath Apr 30, 2024

Australia's newest budget airline suspended all its flights on Tuesday, the move has left thousands of passengers stranded around the country, forcing competitors to step in.

TDM Guest Contributor

Rex Soars High: Australia’s Most Reliable Airline for 16th Consecutive Month

Joe Cusmano Feb 27, 2024 0

In a remarkable display of consistency and reliability, Rex has been crowned Australia’s most reliable airline for the 16th consecutive month, according to data released The post Rex Soars…

TDM Guest Contributor

Virgin Voyages Avoids the Middle East Amid Growing Conflict

Joe Cusmano Feb 12, 2024 0

Amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East, Virgin Voyages has announced a significant repositioning of the itinerary for the Resilient Lady. The post Virgin Voyages Avoids the Middle…

Cruise

Virgin Voyages debuts Summer 2025 Itineraries including 21 new ports

Kanchan Nath Jan 22, 2024

Virgin Voyages, Richard Branson’s cruise line, is introducing 21 new ports starting in 2025 across Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady.

Airlines and Aviation

Turkish delight, Qantas quandary, Virgin victory?

Tony Harrington Jan 18, 2024

When the Australian Government recently blocked a request for more flights by Qatar Airways, it was widely viewed as a win for Qantas, a setback for Virgin Australia, and a blow to…

TDM Guest Contributor

Australia’s Cruise Industry Soaring to New Heights 

Joe Cusmano Jan 16, 2024 0

Following record-breaking performance in 2023, the Australian cruise industry is gearing up for an even more spectacular 2024. The post Australia’s Cruise Industry Soaring to New Heights …

Global

Virgin Voyages dives into highly anticipated 2024  wave season

Kanchan Nath Dec 19, 2023

Virgin Voyages is bringing back its most inclusive offer ever for the cruise industry’s annual wave season. The exclusively adult travel brand is also introducing 21 awe-inspiring new ports…

Cruise

Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady Makes Her Grand Entrance in Sydney

Joe Cusmano Dec 5, 2023 0

The Resilient Lady of Virgin Voyages arrived in Sydney Harbour, where Sir Richard Branson greeted it. According to a news announcement, the Virgin Group founder

Global

dnata partners with local Australian suppliers to craft home-grown, delicious airline meals

Kanchan Nath Oct 13, 2023

dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider, extensively uses local suppliers to provide ingredients for the over 175,000 meals it produces per day throughout Australia.

Cruise

Virgin Velocity Program Launches Cashless Cruises With Virgin Voyage

Joe Cusmano Oct 1, 2023

Before the cruise line’s debut in Australia in December, Virgin Australia’s Velocity Frequent Flyer reward programme unveiled its first-ever cruise-for-points deal with Virgin Voyages.…

Global

Virgin Voyages expands globally, introduces 19 new destinations & 27 new itineraries

Kanchan Nath Sep 14, 2023

Virgin Voyages, Richard Branson’s award-winning cruise line, is introducing 19 new ports and 27 epic new itineraries available through April 2025

Global

Virgin Voyages Adds 19 Destinations Plus 27 Itineraries

Joe Cusmano Sep 11, 2023

Virgin Voyages is introducing 19 new ports and 27 exciting new itineraries until April 2025. The new choices span the world, including a return to the UK in response to strong Sailor and…

Technology

Rex, Australia’s best regional airline, choose Aviator for Revenue Management

Chris Head Jul 18, 2023

Rex are making technological advances on multiple fronts and have just commenced using the latest web-based Aviator revenue management system.

Tourism

Japan Is Now Fully Open To Australian Tourists

Joe Cusmano Oct 18, 2022

Last Tuesday, Japan eased its previously rigid COVID restrictions, allowing international travellers to enter the country without a visa for the first time since the pandemic’s…

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Atlantic Cancels London-Hong Kong Route After 30 Years

Joe Cusmano Oct 11, 2022

Due to the closure of Russian airspace, Virgin Atlantic will not resume service between London Heathrow and Hong Kong. After nearly 30 years of service, the Hong Kong–London flight…

Air

Australian Airlines Should Guarantee Delayed Flight Compensation

Joe Cusmano Oct 3, 2022

There has been a rise in the number of people demanding that airlines ensure compensation for passengers whose flights are either cancelled or delayed. There has been widespread…

Airlines and Aviation

Air New Zealand Dismisses Virgin Merger Reports

Joe Cusmano Sep 21, 2022

On Friday, Air New Zealand issued a strongly worded statement to the ASX denying rumours that it has conducted negotiations with Virgin about a prospective merger. A statement…

Cruise

Australia’s Cruise Surge Set To Resume This Summer

Joe Cusmano Sep 5, 2022

As international ships return for the first summer season since the 2020 ban, interest in cruising has skyrocketed to levels not seen before the pandemic. September is “Cruise Month”…

Tourism

Vanuatu says Welkam Back! to Australian visitors as first flight lands in Port Vila

Kristin Mariano Jul 5, 2022

The first flight since Vanuatu reopened its borders to international travellers landed in Port Vila today, with visitors now able to travel freely throughout the country’s islands and…

Tourism

Australians Can Return To Bali But There Is A Catch

Joe Cusmano Feb 7, 2022

Australians can fly into Bali again as of last Friday, as the popular Indonesian tourist island announced a relaxation of its strict border restrictions.

Airlines and Aviation

Bain Plans IPO For Virgin Next Year

Joe Cusmano Feb 3, 2022

After buying Virgin Australia out of voluntary administration in November 2020, private equity firm Bain Capital is reportedly planning to list the company on Australia’s stock exchange in…

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.

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…

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.

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.

Air

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.

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

Fiji Airways to resume Australia flights by December 2021

Joe Cusmano Sep 7, 2021

Fiji Airways intends to resume flights to Australia "before Christmas" in 2021.

Vaccination Updates

Virgin hits 100K+ entries for VA-X & WIN competition

Joe Cusmano Sep 6, 2021

Virgin Australia has had its largest competition entry day on record last Thursday following the opening of the airline’s VA-X & Win COVID-19 vaccination jackpot on Wednesday.

Vaccination Updates

Virgin wants mandatory vaccination of frontline employees

Joe Cusmano Aug 31, 2021

Virgin Australia, like Qantas, wants all frontline workers to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by mid-November.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin expands its fleet and plans for the Boeing 737 Max

Joe Cusmano Aug 30, 2021

Virgin Australia will add nine additional Boeing 737-800 aircraft to its mainline fleet beginning in October of this year.

Airlines and Aviation

Australian Airlines receive another lifeline

Joe Cusmano Aug 5, 2021

To avoid another round of job losses, Australian airlines will be able to claim $750 per week for half of their pilots and flight attendants.

Airlines and Aviation

Warning for five interstate Virgin flights

Joe Cusmano Jun 29, 2021

Passengers on five different flights between three states are being forced into isolation after a Virgin Australia cabin crew member tested positive to Covid-19.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Velocity and 7-Eleven announce loyalty partnership

Joe Cusmano May 28, 2021

More than 10 million Velocity Frequent Flyer members will now earn Velocity Points whenever they shop for fuel, food, coffee, and convenience items at 7-Eleven from today.

Airlines and Aviation

After the Covid blow, Virgin expands its flight schedule

Joe Cusmano May 21, 2021

Virgin will be running 700 extra flights across Australia by October, including on five new routes focused on the country's north.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas CEO warns Australia could become a ‘hermit state’

Joe Cusmano May 12, 2021

Qantas boss Alan Joyce has conceded the airline may not be able to restart international flights again by October as he had hoped but warned Australia risks becoming a “hermit state” if its…

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin and Alliance partnership gets the OK from the ACCC

Joe Cusmano Apr 15, 2021

Virgin Australia and Alliance Airlines have received the green light from the consumer watchdog to expand their partnership to cover 41 regional domestic routes and two short-range…

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin launches new onboard menus, and more affordable fares

Joe Cusmano Apr 4, 2021

New onboard menus have been introduced on all Virgin Australia flights from today to give customers more choice and better value.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin half-price flights

Joe Cusmano Apr 4, 2021

Australia’s big three airlines have released some really cheap fares as part of the federal government 1.2 Billion push to kick start the battered tourism industry.

Features

Virgin scraps free food from its economy class

Joe Cusmano Mar 26, 2021

Virgin Australia has scrapped the free food offering in its economy class, with passengers only receiving complimentary water, tea, or coffee on flights.

Features

The domestic air travel market in Australia is recovering quickly

Joe Cusmano Mar 26, 2021

Exactly twelve months ago, the number of domestic flights operated in Australia was going into a steep decline. Now, the market is rapidly increasing.

Reopening updates

Details of the Australian government’s AUD1.2 billion ‘Ticket to Recovery’

Joe Cusmano Mar 12, 2021

Australian travellers will have access to hundreds of thousands of half-price airfares to more than a dozen tourism-reliant regions, subsidised by the government as part of the package…

Australia’s Queensland reopens borders

Megha Paul Dec 2, 2020

The Australian state of Queensland has reopened its borders to the residents from New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria on 1 December, after months of restrictions due to the Covid-19 pandemic

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas, Jetstar, and Virgin add additional flights

Joe Cusmano Nov 26, 2020

With the re-opening of the NSW borders for Victoria, Australian carriers have announced several additional flights between the two states. Qantas and Jetstar will operate a combined 17…

Features

Australians…are we still Young and Free?

Silvia O'Donovan Aug 28, 2020

On the 17th of March 2020 the Australian Government has implemented a total travel ban both outbound and inbound on all its residents. The ban was originally meant to be lifted on the 17th…

Technology

Australian Sojourn: StudentUniverse goes Down Under

Megha Paul Jun 17, 2019

The US-based student and youth travel booking website StudentUniverse has announced the brand’s continued global growth as it now launches in the Australian market. In a bid to expand…

Airlines and Aviation

Did Qantas blindside Alliance and Virgin with 20% takeover?

Kristin Mariano Feb 4, 2019

Qantas Group has announced on Friday that it had taken over 19.99% stake of Brisbane-based charter operator Alliance Airlines.

Tourism

Virgin Group: Richard Branson and India announce $55 billion Hyperloop project

Alastair Newport Feb 19, 2018

Richard Branson and The Indian State of Maharashtra announced their intent to build a Virgin Hyperloop between Pune and Mumbai, this weekend.  Beginning with an operational demonstration…

Face‑to‑Face

Face-to-Face: Rachel Meyer, director of international marketing, Visit Sunshine Coast, Australia

Gemma Greenwood Feb 5, 2017

What visitor trends are you noticing to the Sunshine Coast? With the expansion of Sunshine Coast Airport confirmed and the interest shown by international airlines in the region, it…

Airlines and Aviation

Tigerair Australia withdraws from Bali

Mark Elliott Feb 3, 2017

Tigerair Australia has suspended all flights to Bali, less than a year after it started flying to the island. The low-cost carrier said the decision had been taken after Indonesian…

Features

Rex Ready To Launch Frequent Flyer Program

Joe Cusmano Aug 4, 2022

Rex is launching its loyalty programme later this year to compete with Qantas and Virgin Australia.

Podcasts

Podcast: Super Seven Series: Georgia Rickard

TellMeWhere2Go Sep 10, 2021

Featuring: Georgia Rickard, In this series of seven podcasts, prominent travel identities chat to TellmeWhere2Go about adjusting to the Covid era. From travel restrictions to how they view…

TD’s Anthony Gallagher meets Richard Branson inviting Aussies to join the fun on Scarlet Lady maiden voyage

Kristin Mariano Nov 14, 2019

Richard Branson made sure that Australians will be able to join the maiden voyage of Scarlet Lady in April 2020 as his cruise line Virgin Voyages partnered with Virgin Australia that will…

Technology

Amadeus reports strong third quarter results

Kanchan Nath Nov 8, 2024

In the first nine months of 2024, Amadeus delivered double-digit growth with enhanced profitability, delivering expanding EBITDA and Operating Income margins.

TDM Guest Contributor

Velocity Frequent Flyer Unveils Exciting Program Changes and Massive Reward Seat Sale

Joe Cusmano Oct 20, 2024 0

Velocity Frequent Flyer has announced a series of exciting changes to its program, set to roll out over the next 12 months. These changes are

Air

Embraer chooses SIAEP as its first authorised E2 service centre in the Asia-Pacific

Marga Manlapig Sep 26, 2024

Embraer appointed SIA Engineering (Philippines) Corporation (SIAEP) as the first Embraer Authorised Service Center in the Asia-Pacific.

Global

Tech will transform the way the airline industry retails travel: Mike Reyes

Kanchan Nath Jun 25, 2024

In an interview  with TDM, Mike Reyes – SVP, Product Management – Airline Platform, Sabre, shares more about SabreMosaic, Air Price IQ, current and future trends in the aviation industry. 

TDM Guest Contributor

Qantas Soars to New Heights: Launching Flights to Vanuatu

Joe Cusmano Jun 23, 2024 0

Qantas, has received the green light from the International Air Services Commission (IASC) to launch its own flights to Vanuatu. This exciting development comes as

TDM Guest Contributor

Bonza Crisis: Administrators Struggle to Save the Day

Joe Cusmano Jun 16, 2024 0

Last Tuesday, 11 June, Bonza Administrator Hall & Chaswick faced the grim task of laying off the whole workforce. Despite painstaking efforts and court-ordered delays, the option of…

Global

AI-powered solutions will change the way travel partners create, retail, and service offers for travellers: Brett Thorstad

Kanchan Nath Jun 14, 2024

In an interview with Travel Daily Media, Brett Thorstad, Vice President, Agency Sales & Airline Distribution, Asia Pacific, Sabre Travel Solutions, tells us about Sabre Travel AI™…

Airlines and Aviation

Vietnam Airlines named among world’s best 25 airlines for 2024

Kanchan Nath Jun 3, 2024

Vietnam Airlines secured 11th place in world’s best 25 airlines for 2024 as named by AirlineRatings.com.

TDM Guest Contributor

Qatar Airways Ascends to Global Acclaim as the Best Airline of 2024

Joe Cusmano Jun 2, 2024 0

In a remarkable return to form, Qatar Airways has once again been crowned the world’s best airline, according to the latest rankings by AirlineRatings.com. The

Airlines and Aviation

Sabre introduces SabreMosaic

Kanchan Nath May 23, 2024

Sabre Corporation has introduced SabreMosaicTM, a new intelligent, modular and open technology platform – built to transform the way airlines retail.

TDM Guest Contributor

Air Vanuatu Collapses: A Blow to Pacific Tourism

Joe Cusmano May 12, 2024 0

In a shocking turn of events, Air Vanuatu, the national carrier of the Pacific nation of Vanuatu, has been placed into voluntary liquidation. The airline,

TDM Guest Contributor

Qantas Implements Significant Changes to Baggage Fees

Joe Cusmano Apr 15, 2024 0

In April, Qantas is introducing several significant changes. These include a new tier for Classic Plus Flight Rewards, increased Qantas Club membership costs, and additional The post Qantas…

TDM Guest Contributor

Velocity Frequent Flyer and AGL Energize Rewards with New Partnership

Joe Cusmano Apr 15, 2024 0

Velocity Frequent Flyer and one of Australia’s leading energy retailers, AGL Energy, have entered into a new strategic partnership, giving millions of Australians the opportunity to earn…

TDM Guest Contributor

Velocity Frequent Flyer and AGL Energize Rewards with New Partnership

Joe Cusmano Apr 15, 2024 0

Velocity Frequent Flyer and one of Australia’s leading energy retailers, AGL Energy, have entered into a new strategic partnership, giving millions of Australians the opportunity to earn…

TDM Guest Contributor

REX Scores Number 1 Spot for Reliability

Joe Cusmano Jan 28, 2024 0

According to the most recent data published by the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE), Rex has been named Australia’s most reliable and The post REX Scores…

Appointments

David Kondo appointed Head of Austrian Brand Experience

Kanchan Nath Sep 20, 2023

David Kondo will take over as Senior Director Austrian Brand Experience from 15 October 2023, and will thus be responsible for Austrian Airlines' entire marketing and product management in…

Airlines and Aviation

Air New Zealand is the “Airline of the Year for 2023”

Kanchan Nath Jun 2, 2023

AirlineRatings.com, the world’s only safety and product rating website has announced Air New Zealand as its Airline of the Year for 2023.

Air

Air Canada to Boost Flights To Brisbane And Sydney

Joe Cusmano Apr 21, 2023

Air Canada has announced that it would increase its Sydney-Vancouver and Brisbane-Vancouver flights in time for the northern winter ski season. Due to strong demand from the…

Air

United announces largest South Pacific expansion in aviation history

Kristin Mariano Apr 20, 2023

United Airlines today announces the largest South  Pacific network expansion ever to and from the continental U.S., including the first non stop flight between San Francisco and…

Airlines and Aviation

New direct United Airlines flights b/w San Francisco and Christchurch from 1 Dec, 2023

Kanchan Nath Apr 20, 2023

United Airlines announces the largest South Pacific network expansion ever to and from the continental U.S., including the first non-stop flight between San Francisco and Christchurch set to…

Air

REX Invests In Electric Propulsion Company

Joe Cusmano Apr 19, 2023

REX, the largest regional airline in Australia, has confirmed a substantial investment in an aviation startup, opening the door for electric planes to be used by passengers flying…

Airlines and Aviation

Japan Airlines Increases Melbourne Tokyo Flights

Joe Cusmano Feb 11, 2023

Great news for travellers planning holidays to Japan: Japan Airlines will begin operating more flights out of Melbourne starting at the end of March. The national airline of Japan now…

Corporate & Business

Corporate Traveller reveals top travel perks for credit cardholders in 2023 

Kanchan Nath Jan 26, 2023

This year’s strong demand for domestic and international travel has also seen a resurgence in the accumulation of rewards points.

Airlines and Aviation

ANA Increases Service To Sydney To Double Daily

Joe Cusmano Jan 24, 2023

ANA has announced that it will increase its services to Sydney from 10 to 14 flights per week beginning 26 March. While both current flights operate at night, each leg of the new…

Air

Travel Has Returned, But Low Airfares Have Not

Joe Cusmano Jan 23, 2023

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission predicts that high costs will continue through 2023, despite recent statistics from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showing that…

Air

Consumer Commission Puts On Notice Aussie Airlines To Lower Fares

Joe Cusmano Dec 12, 2022

Qantas anticipates a summer of tremendous demand that will test its service and dependability, while Australia’s consumer watchdog has warned airlines about rising domestic airfares.…

Airlines and Aviation

Rex and Delta Begin Interline Partnership

Joe Cusmano Nov 3, 2022

Thanks to a new interline arrangement between Rex and Delta Air Lines, travellers from Armidale and Wagga Wagga may book a single ticket for round-trip travel to the United States. All…

Airlines and Aviation

United Airlines Makes Its Landing In Brisbane

Joe Cusmano Nov 1, 2022

United Airlines’ debut flight from San Francisco to Brisbane landed on Saturday, making it the first American airline to offer regular, non-stop service between the US mainland and…

MICE

Focus forward – bigger, better, stronger

Kanchan Nath Sep 7, 2022

Flight Centre Corporate opens registrations for ‘Illuminate 2022’, to be held at Alexandria’s The Venue in Sydney on Thursday 20 October, with a ‘Focus Forward – Bigger, Better, Stronger’…

Airports

Brisbane Airport Says Curfew And Caps Could Cost Jobs and 1 Billion Dollars

Joe Cusmano Sep 5, 2022

According to Brisbane Airport, limiting aircraft to reduce noise would cost the local economy jobs and $1 billion yearly. Gert-Jan de Graaff, the airport’s CEO, warned that closing…

Eturbo News

Global aviation leaders gather in Doha for IATA Annual General Meeting

Harry Johnson Jun 17, 2022

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that leaders of the global aviation industry are gathering in Doha, Qatar, for the 78th IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and…

Tourism

Japan Will Reopen Its Borders From March But Not For Tourists

Joe Cusmano Feb 23, 2022

Japan announced on Thursday that it would cautiously reopen its borders in March by lifting the daily restriction on the number of people allowed to enter the country while remaining closed…

Airlines and Aviation

Etihad Increases Sydney And Melbourne Flights To Daily

Joe Cusmano Feb 17, 2022

Etihad Airways will increase its Melbourne and Sydney services from five per week to daily starting 27 March 2022, offering 14 weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Australia.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas Group Cuts Capacity As WA Delays Border Reopening

Joe Cusmano Jan 27, 2022

In light of the Western Australian government’s decision to delay indefinitely reopening its borders due to an increase in Omicron cases, Qantas has announced that it will cut its projected…

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.

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.

Air

Airline Industry Expects A Surge In 2022

Joe Cusmano Dec 17, 2021

According to Cirium, a London-based global aviation analytics organisation, the airline industry is expected to grow by 47 per cent 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.

Key airlines that entered bankruptcy due to the pandemic

Joe Cusmano Nov 25, 2021

This is a list of some of the major airlines that have declared bankruptcy as a result of the unprecedented devastation wrought by the Covid-19 pandemic.

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.”

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.

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.

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.

ACCC denies approval for Qantas-Japan Airlines deal

Joe Cusmano Sep 15, 2021

As international travel resumes, Australia's Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) denied Qantas Airways and Japan Airlines permission to coordinate flights between the two countries.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas reaffirms airline will ban unvaccinated travellers

Joe Cusmano Sep 15, 2021

Qantas CEO Alan Joyce has reiterated that unvaccinated passengers will be barred from international flights when borders reopen, which he hopes will be in December.

Interviews

SUPER SEVEN SERIES -2nd podcast drops – interviews with travel identities – who’s next?

cynthia dammerer Sep 8, 2021

In this series of seven podcasts, prominent travel identities chat to TellmeWhere2Go about adjusting to the Covid era. From travel restrictions to how they view the current state of their…

Features

Rex postpones jet deliveries until lockdowns ends

Joe Cusmano Sep 6, 2021

Regional Express has postponed the delivery of four additional jet aircraft to fly between major cities, citing the travel industry as too volatile to continue its domestic market expansion…

Airlines and Aviation

What the future of flying looks like post lockdown

Joe Cusmano Sep 1, 2021

Comes Christmas, it may be cheaper to go and visit friends and relatives in London than flying from Sydney to Perth “provided the state opens its border”.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas reveals virtual travel experience from the ground

Joe Cusmano Aug 18, 2021

The airline industry saw a significant increase in passenger traffic this summer, as many passengers were eager to travel, in contrast to last year when many passengers were forced to…

Airlines and Aviation

Rex to let go up to 500 staff as lockdown continues

Joe Cusmano Aug 17, 2021

Rex has announced it will stand down staff and lose more money in fiscal 2021 than previously expected as a result of COVID lockdowns in Australia’s biggest states, NSW and Vic.

Eturbo News

Podcast: Overview Vanuatu

Steve Collins Aug 3, 2021

Composed of 83 spectacular islands, the archipelago of Vanuatu features an authentic and unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture and friendly locals. After just a short plane…

Air

World Best Airlines 2021 announced

Joe Cusmano Jul 21, 2021

AirlineRatings.com, the world’s only safety, product and COVID rating website has announced Qatar Airways as its Airline of the Year for 2021.

Air

Velocity Frequent Flyer member on track to fly to space

Joe Cusmano Jul 13, 2021

The dream of flying to space is one giant leap closer to reality for Velocity Frequent Flyer member, Scott Copeland from Melbourne.

Airlines and Aviation

Rex to lease two more B737 for further network expansion

Joe Cusmano Jul 2, 2021

Rex has announced plans to secure two additional Boeing 737NG (Next Generation) aircraft through a new lease agreement with a lessor.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas expected to come out of the pandemic stronger than ever

Joe Cusmano Jul 2, 2021

While COVID has proven to be fatal for many of its competitors, Qantas is poised to soar even further.

Airlines and Aviation

Rex revises forecast to full-year loss

Joe Cusmano Jun 14, 2021

Rex said on Wednesday (9 June) that it is now forecasting a full-year loss of A$15 million due to ongoing lockdowns in various parts of Australia due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

TDM Guest Contributor

Western Sydney airport unveils final terminal design

Joe Cusmano Jun 11, 2021

Sustainability and energy efficiency are at the core of the airport as CEO Simon Hickey reveals details of the $5.3 billion project.

Vaccination Updates

Airlines will require staff to be vaccinated or face consequences

Joe Cusmano Jun 2, 2021

Brisbane-based Alliance Airlines is making COVID-19 vaccinations compulsory for all employees.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas and Singapore Airlines diverging fortunes show disparities

Joe Cusmano May 24, 2021

Qantas and Singapore Airlines are travelling in opposite directions when it comes to the coronavirus crisis, with the former emerging strongly thanks to its buoyant home market and the…

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas reveals wage freeze and more job losses

Joe Cusmano May 21, 2021

Qantas has announced it will introduce a two-year wage freeze on all new enterprise agreements across the Qantas Group, as it seeks to reduce its annual costs by AUD1 billion by FY23.

Reopening updates

Millions must get COVID jab before borders can open

Joe Cusmano May 21, 2021

New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian says about five million people in the state need to be fully vaccinated before borders open, amid growing pressure to set a timeline.

Vaccination Updates

Vaccinated travellers won’t be allowed to fly due to blood-clot

Joe Cusmano May 18, 2021

Last week rumours that vaccinated people will be barred from flying because of blood-clot fears were circulating on social media.

Airlines and Aviation

Rex seeks to stimulate demand with Melbourne-Sydney fare sale

Joe Cusmano May 4, 2021

Regional Express (Rex) has gatecrashed the country’s busiest domestic airline route between Sydney and Melbourne.

Reopening updates

Trans-Tasman travel bubble ends dry spell of tourism

Joe Cusmano May 4, 2021

The much-hyped Australia-New Zealand travel bubble could pull the lever on a multi-billion-dollar jackpot for both countries.

Airlines and Aviation

AU government funded half-price tickets 600,000 sold in 3 weeks

Joe Cusmano Apr 29, 2021

Last month, the Australian Government announced a $1.2 billion tourism support package which included 800,000 half-price airfares, helping a record number of Australians enjoy a holiday at…

Airlines and Aviation

Regional Express to launch Sydney-Canberra flights from April 19

Joe Cusmano Apr 13, 2021

Regional Express is poised to break Qantas' current monopoly on the Sydney-Canberra route with the launch of its own flights to the capital city starting 19 April.

Tourism

Kia Ora New Zealand! The two-way travel bubble is a go

Joe Cusmano Apr 7, 2021

Australians will be able to travel across the ditch without having to quarantine upon arrival or on their return to Australia.

Reopening updates

Aussie government gives new support package that doubles previous commitment to travel industry

Megha Paul Mar 11, 2021

Tourism minister Dan Tehan has just confirmed that another AUD 128 million (USD 128 million) will be available to assist travel industry businesses dealing with the ongoing closure of…

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas allows more flexible flying

Joe Cusmano Feb 10, 2021

Qantas is now offering more flexibility to customers wanting to change their travel dates, now allowing unlimited flight changes until January 2022.

Air

How Qantas is offering fast-track to higher status to attract corporate travellers

Megha Paul Nov 27, 2020

The move could help boost Qantas’ market share in lucrative corporate and high-end leisure travel as domestic flights ramp up in Australia due to the reopening of state borders

Guest Column

Airlines continue with cuts and changes to their business model

Joe Cusmano Nov 24, 2020

The continued unrest of the spread of Covid-19 around the world is continuing to force airlines to make cuts and implement changes to their business models in order to continue fighting the…

Its official! Brisbane Airport’s new runway is now open for business

Megha Paul Jul 15, 2020

Brisbane Airport’s (BNE) new runway opened with a celebration of Queensland’s rich aviation history. Virgin Australia, BNE’s home carrier, had the honour of the first historic departure,…

Global Aviation in Crisis

Andrew Wood May 19, 2020

Global aviation has been battered and air traffic remains largely grounded as countries enforce their lockdowns and restrict travel, with few signs that the end is in sight. For the largest…

Air

IATA: “Millions of jobs are at stake and relief cannot come fast enough”

Alastair Newport Apr 22, 2020

IATA has put pressure on governments around the wolrd to work with the industry on confidence-boosting measures in the face of an anticipated slow recovery in demand for air travel. IATA’s…

How airlines can take customer loyalty to new heights

Alastair Newport Sep 16, 2019

Loyalty programs have served airlines well for decades. But new technology and a new generation of travellers are changing the rules. Young people have the means and desire to travel…

Airlines and Aviation

Another Lion Air accident on runway during take-off

Kristin Mariano Nov 8, 2018

In a span of little more than a week, two unfortunate incidents befall Indonesian low-cost carrier Lion Air. Following the fatal crash of Lion Air 737 claiming the lives of 189 people,…

Global

Alitalia jumps on the branded fares bandwagon

Alastair Newport Oct 29, 2018

Sabre Corporation has announced that Italian airline Alitalia has jumped on the tech firm’s bandwagon by signing up for the Sabre Branded Fares solution, which will be available on domestic…

Airlines and Aviation

Philippine Airlines receives 10th Boeing 777-300ER from Avation PLC

Simon Willmore Dec 19, 2017 4

Avation PLC's first aeroplane, a 777-300ER (Extended Range), was the newest addition to the fleet of Philippine Airlines (PAL). This delivery has increased the Southeast Asia-based flag…

Guest Column

Taking Flight: Onboard Wi-Fi in Asia Pacific

Mark Elliott Aug 10, 2017

In recent years, the Asia Pacific region - the world’s fastest growing aviation market - has been seeing rapid development and increasing popularity in in-flight connectivity (IFC).…

Hong Kong

Hong Kong air traffic rises in first half of 2017

Mark Elliott Jul 18, 2017

Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) experienced rising passenger traffic and flight movements in the first half of 2017. According to the latest data from Hong Kong's Airport Authority…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates from Lufthansa, Hainan Airlines and more

Mark Elliott Jun 22, 2017

IndiGo boosts domestic network Where? Delhi to Chennai (both India) When? Daily, effective immediately Who? IndiGo Why? India's largest domestic carrier, in terms of market share,…

Appointments

The latest appointments from Sabre, Minor and more

Mark Elliott Jun 21, 2017

PIETER VAN DER HOEVEN has become Minor Hotels' new area general manager for Vietnam. Based at the Anantara Hoi An, he will now oversee the operations and sales of all Minor hotel brands…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates from AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Air Astana and more

Mark Elliott Jun 7, 2017

AirAsia launches Borneo's new intra-island route Where? Kuching (Malaysia) to Pontianak (Indonesia) When? Daily, effective immediately Who? AirAsia Why? Low-cost carrier expands…

Airlines and Aviation

Hong Kong Airlines spreads wings Down Under

Mark Elliott Jun 6, 2017

Hong Kong Airlines has enhanced its presence in Australia and New Zealand with the launch of a major new codeshare partnership with Virgin Australia. The new agreement will enable the…

Appointments

The latest appointments from Movenpick, IHG, Six Senses and more…

Mark Elliott May 31, 2017

GERARD HOTELIER has become Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts' new vice president of operations for Asia. A long-term executive with the Swiss hotel group, Hotelier became GM of the Mövenpick…

Airlines and Aviation

维珍澳洲新增中国航班

Mark Elliott Feb 26, 2017

据澳洲网报道，随着竞争对手相继推出澳中直飞航线，澳洲第二大航空公司维珍澳洲(Virgin Australia)在17日宣布，将联手中国航空公司推出澳洲至中国香港与内地的直飞航线。 《澳洲人报》报道称，维珍澳洲已向澳洲竞争与消费者委员会(ACCC)提出申请，要求与香港航空、香港快运航空及控制20%维珍澳洲股权的海南航空(HNA)组成联盟。…

New Zealand

World Travellers Group upgrades with Travelport

Mark Elliott Feb 22, 2017

World Travellers Group, the New Zealand-based retail travel network, has made a significant investment in its future by signing a new multi-year technology agreement with Travelport.…

Airlines and Aviation

Etihad reports year of sustained growth as it evolves into EAG

Gemma Greenwood Feb 8, 2017

Etihad Airways delivered another year of sustained growth in 2016, helped by new aircraft, additional frequencies and the introduction of further world-class products. The airline…

Global

As an industry we need to work collaboratively to reach sustainability goals: Suyin Lee

Kanchan Nath Nov 13, 2024

Lee is big fan of community led tourism; it provides much needed tourism revenue for development. On the other hand, trends indicate that people want more immersive, unique and cultural…

Appointments

FCM Consulting appoints Jason Kramer as Senior Air Consultant globally

Kanchan Nath Nov 5, 2024

FCM Consulting, a division of the flagship corporate travel business FCM Travel under its Flight Centre Travel Group (ASX:FLT) parent company, has named Jason Kramer as its new Air Category…

TDM Guest Contributor

Rex Adds to Launch Perth-Adelaide Flights   

Joe Cusmano Jun 2, 2024 0

Rex will start tits 12th domestic route, three weekly services from Perth to Adelaide operated with an Embraer E-190 jet, on sale now for travel from 28 June.

TDM Guest Contributor

Rex Launches Melbourne-Perth Route, Promising Affordable and Reliable Travel

Joe Cusmano May 26, 2024 0

Rex Airlines is introducing a unique Melbourne-Perth route in a strategic move to broaden its domestic reach. This route, designed to cater to the budget-conscious

TDM Guest Contributor

Qantas Rejects the Price Gouging Allegation 

Joe Cusmano Feb 11, 2024 0

In response to an investigation by former ACCC head Allan Fels, Qantas has once again rejected allegations of price gouging. The ACTU-commissioned study slammed Qantas The post Qantas…

Features

Thailand: The tropical destination Americans want to visit the most in 2024

Kanchan Nath Dec 21, 2023

A recent study has named Thailand the tropical destination Americans most want to visit in 2024. The analysis undertaken by the all-inclusive review site wereviewresorts.com analyzed the…

Cruise

Norwegian Cruise Line reveals new fall and winter 2025/26 Sailings

Kanchan Nath Dec 20, 2023

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel with a 57-year history of breaking boundaries, revealed new fall and winter 2025/26 voyages. 

Cruise

Disney Cruise Line Unveils Early 2025 Voyages

Joe Cusmano Nov 1, 2023

Disney Cruise Line has announced an array of itineraries for its six ships beginning in early 2025, with five ships, including the upcoming new-build Disney Treasure, offering Caribbean…

Cruise

Norwegian Cruise Line introduces six new land excursions 

Kanchan Nath Sep 7, 2023

Norwegian Cruise Line, the innovator in global cruise travel, has unveiled six new immersive shore excursion categories to help guests uncover more of each destination they visit, including…

Tourism Boards

Singapore Tourism Board appoints ‘One Green Bean’ as UK communications agency

Kanchan Nath Aug 2, 2023

Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has appointed One Green Bean as its new PR and Social Media agency in the UK, following an open request for proposal process.

Air

REX Launches Services From Sydney To Adelaide

Joe Cusmano Jul 4, 2023

Flights between Sydney and Adelaide, the fourth capital city in the airline network, have begun as part of Rex’s debut of its capital city services. The maiden flight, operated by REX…

United States

Regent Seven Seas Cruises tempts luxury travellers with 2025-2026 voyage collection

Kristin Mariano Jun 12, 2023

Regent Seven Seas Cruises®, the world’s leading luxury cruise line, has announced its 2025-2026 Voyage Collection. Showcasing new itineraries and an incredible 29 maiden ports of call in…

Guest Column

Gaston Bistro Grand Hyatt Bangkok raises the bar

Andrew Wood May 9, 2023

GASTON is a welcome addition to the restaurant scene here in Bangkok. If, like me, you enjoy all things French, then you are going to be delighted with this Parisian inspired Bistro which…

Cruise

Adelaide Has Welcomed The Largest Cruise Ship

Joe Cusmano Mar 9, 2023

Since September of last year, when South Australia’s former $145 million cruise industry returned, around 80 cruise ships have docked there, carrying with them over 150,000 passengers and…

Cruise

The 10 Most Popular Cruise Lines Around The World 2023

Joe Cusmano Feb 28, 2023

Based on The Travel ranking of the 10 most popular cruise lines throughout the globe for 2023, this is the ranked cruise line from number 10 to number 1; let’s dig in to find out which…

Special Reports

58% of Aussies will amend travel plans to navigate higher prices and disruptions 

Kanchan Nath Dec 9, 2022

This year, Australians have travelled in droves, with domestic travel in particular increasing to 89 per cent of pre-COVID levels. The promising bounceback, however, has been met worker…

Air

Rex Supports Qantas Bid To Take Over Alliance

Joe Cusmano Oct 5, 2022

Qantas’ quest to acquire FIFO specialist Alliance received unexpected support when Rex said it would support the deal. The local provider of the E190, Alliance, has claimed that any…

Interviews

The pandemic changed how we travel, hospitality should follow suit

Kristin Mariano Sep 20, 2022

TD sat down with Trent Fraser, CEO of Choice Hotels about the emerging travel trends and navigating the post-pandemic era in the hospitality sector.

Airlines and Aviation

Singapore Airlines Drops Mask Requirement On Many Routes

Joe Cusmano Sep 1, 2022

Passengers flying on Singapore Airlines will no longer be required to wear face masks on some flights beginning next Monday, 29 August joining other international airlines such as…

Air

The Qantas-Alliance Airlines Merger Raises Concerns

Joe Cusmano Aug 19, 2022

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) released a statement of issues outlining preliminary competition concerns with Qantas Airways’ proposed acquisition of Alliance…

Air

Domestic Airfares Increased Significantly This Month

Joe Cusmano Aug 16, 2022

In Australia, domestic airfares skyrocketed in August due to soaring jet fuel costs and general inflation.

Cruise

Cruise360 Australasia embraces renewal and opportunities in packed line-up

Kristin Mariano Aug 2, 2022

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced details of its upcoming Cruise360 Australasia conference, celebrating cruising’s revival Down Under with a packed program…

Tripadvisor Names The World’s Best Beaches

Joe Cusmano Mar 4, 2022

According to Tripadvisor users, the best beach in the world for 2022 is, not unexpectedly, located in the Caribbean, where four of this year’s top 10 beaches are located.

Airlines and Aviation

Rex Aims To Expand 737 Fleet From 6 To 30

Joe Cusmano Feb 26, 2022

Over the next five to seven years, Rex plans to increase its Boeing 737 fleet to 30 planes, to put one new plane into service every two to three months.

Rex To Build 737 Training Facilities And New Hangar In Sydney

Joe Cusmano Feb 9, 2022

After securing funding through NSW job-fuelling programme, Rex Airlines has announced plans to build a new Boeing 737 flight simulator centre at its Mascot headquarters.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas Boss Compared WA Border Restrictions To North Korea

Joe Cusmano Feb 7, 2022

Qantas boss Alan Joyce has compared Western Australia’s ongoing border shutdown to North Korea’s authoritarian regime.

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.

Eturbo 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.

Air

The New Aircraft That We Will Be Set To Fly In Starting 2022

Joe Cusmano Dec 16, 2021

Aircraft deliveries have been delayed due to the pandemic, but there’s still something exciting in store for travellers who enjoy trying out new aircraft.

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 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.

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 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.

Technology

Vacaay and Travel South USA reboot international destination marketing

Kristin Mariano Oct 8, 2021

Having lost traction, after an eighteen-month hiatus, destination marketing organisations are adopting new - more innovative, tech-savvy, leisure-travel media that guarantee ROI.

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.

Appointments

Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) appoints Darren Wright as Global CMO

Kristin Mariano Aug 11, 2021

Flight Centre Travel Group has appointed Darren ‘Daz’ Wright as Global Chief Marketing Officer for its leisure division, including the global Flight Centre brand and Travel Associates.

Vaccination Updates

PH reduces quarantine for fully-vaccinated travellers from green countries

Kristin Mariano Jul 6, 2021

The Philippines’ Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) has approved to shorten the quarantine for fully-vaccinated travellers from green…

Hospitality

The winners of the 1st edition of the LIV Hospitality Design Awards have been revealed!

Chris Head Jul 2, 2021

The program is one of the most highly anticipated acknowledgments in the Hospitality Architectural Design and Interior Design industry.

Tourism

Countries eager to reopen to travel as pandemic recedes

Joe Cusmano Jun 29, 2021

Whilst Australia with its low vaccination rate is not in a hurry to open the international borders, around the globe, countries are taking different approaches for re-opening to travel after…

Airlines and Aviation

As capacity war continues, Jetstar starts Brisbane–Perth service

Joe Cusmano Jun 24, 2021

Jetstar will compete with rival Virgin and Qantas and launch five return services between Brisbane and Perth in time for the summer season.

Tourism

UK confidence to fly is high despite Brexit and COVID-19

Megha Paul Mar 31, 2021

A new survey from Cirium, an aviation analytics company, reveals that the UK is confident to fly again

Airlines and Aviation

Rex offers USD49 Sydney-Melbourne fares, business class at USD199

Joe Cusmano Feb 12, 2021

With its first Sydney-Melbourne flights barely three weeks away, Regional Express is showing just how heated competition could get on Australia's most popular route.

Airlines and Aviation

Can airlines improve frequent flyer programs in post-pandemic?

Joe Cusmano Feb 9, 2021

Here are some ideas on how airlines can improve loyalty programs to retain current customers and bring new ones on board.

Guest Column

New coronavirus strain may force travel back into hibernation

Joe Cusmano Dec 29, 2020

Despite the arrival of promising vaccines and an undeniable sense of pandemic fatigue, travel seems to be slipping back into hibernation.

Podcast: 5 Outstanding Curiosities of Architect and Designer Bill Bensley

Steve Collins Oct 24, 2020

Featuring: Steve Collins and Bill Bensley Who is Bill Bensley you may ask? The Bangkok-based architect famous for his design work on one-of-a-kind luxury hotels is just as unique as his…

Tourism

WTTC calls for leadership from PM Boris Johnson and strong international coordination to save travel sector

Megha Paul Aug 13, 2020

World Travel & Tourism Council has urgently called on the UK government for strong leadership and unprecedented international collaboration, to save the struggling travel and tourism…

Air

AirHelp unveils list of top airlines, highlighting customer satisfaction is way to success

Alastair Newport Jun 11, 2018

Flight compensation company AirHelp has unveiled ratings of the world’s best airports and airlines, with the usual suspects Qatar Airways, Lufthansa and Etihad Airways filling out the…

Associations

Travel Counsellors ‘pack for a purpose’ during Gold celebrations in Jamaica

Jill Sayles Jun 27, 2017

A group of over 70 Travel Counsellors recently celebrated their Gold status with the company during a trip to the five-star Half Moon resort in Jamaica.  Whilst enjoying activities…

Cruise

Well-kept secret:

Simon Willmore May 31, 2017

With itineraries in places such as the Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico, Bermuda, Hawaii, the Mediterranean, South America and the South Pacific, cruise ships make it easy to get to some of the…

Travel Agents

Gold Medal reports big year-on-year rise in Easter bookings

Aaron Greenwood Apr 20, 2017

Gold Medal has reported a huge year-on-year increase in bookings secured over the Easter bank holiday weekend.  The long-haul operator saw agents booking 887 per cent more holidays to…