Qantas (Australia) has announced that it expects to take delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR in April 2025. This aircraft is part of an order for 28 A321XLRs, supporting the airline’s long-term fleet modernization strategy, which includes replacing its Boeing 737 fleet over the next decade. Additionally, Qantas anticipates the arrival of its fifth Airbus A220 by the end of 2024.
Virgin Australia is advancing its plans to reintroduce long-haul international services to Europe by June 2025. The airline is on track to receive approval from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) for its proposed wet lease of aircraft from Qatar Airways.
MinRes Air (Australia) has expanded its fleet with the delivery of an Airbus A320, identified by serial number 5129. The aircraft, operated by Skytraders (Australia), is powered by CFM56-5B4/3 engines, offering reliability and efficiency for regional and charter operations.
Jetstar (Australia) has expanded its fleet with the delivery of a new A320neo, identified by serial number 12328. The aircraft is powered by LEAP-1A26 engines, offering superior fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
Fiji Airways, the national airline of Fiji, has announced the launch of direct flights between Cairns (CNS) in Australia and Nadi (NAN) in Fiji. The new route will commence on April 10, 2025, and will be operated using the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.
Etihad Airways, the flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has announced that it will end its unilateral codeshare and bilateral frequent-flyer partnership with Virgin Australia effective June 1, 2025. The decision reflects a “divergence in the strategic direction” of the two airlines, according to Etihad’s statement.
The Virgin Australia pilots’ union has extended its qualified support for the airline’s proposed partnership with Qatar Airways, as outlined in a recent submission to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). The union’s conditional backing reflects an interest in strengthening the alliance between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways while ensuring that pilots’ terms and conditions are safeguarded. This cautious endorsement…
Regional Express Holdings (Rex), one of Australia’s prominent regional airlines, has secured $52.6 million in government funding to keep its essential regional routes operational during an extended voluntary administration process. The financial support underscores the government’s commitment to sustaining critical air connectivity across Australia, particularly for remote and underserved communities relying on Rex’s services. Although the exact terms…
Qantas and other industry stakeholders have raised concerns about a proposed partnership between Qatar Airways and Virgin Australia. This agreement would see Qatar Airways operate new international routes on behalf of Virgin Australia, a move that has stirred debate within the Australian aviation industry. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is currently reviewing the deal to determine whether it aligns…
Australia has secured Open Skies agreements with both Canada and Malaysia, granting airlines from these countries unrestricted rights to operate air passenger services to and from Australia starting in 2026. These agreements mark a significant shift in Australia’s aviation landscape, aiming to enhance connectivity and boost competition on international routes. The Open Skies policy is designed to promote greater accessibility, allowing airlines to operate…
