Corporate Travel News: June 2025

After more than five years, Virgin Australia is returning to long-haul international flying. Starting mid-June, new flights will launch from Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth to Doha, Qatar — home of Virgin’s new key investor, Qatar Airways. Melbourne-Doha flights will follow from 1 December 2025. These flights complement Qatar Airways’ existing services, offering travellers more flexibility with double-daily flights from Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth, and three daily flights from Melbourne. Plus, passengers will enjoy seamless connections to the UK, Europe, and South Africa.

Qantas adds second A380 to Sydney to Singapore routes this summer

From 16 June to 10 August 2025, Qantas will deploy a second A380 on its popular Sydney–Singapore route (QF81/QF82), replacing the usual A330 and significantly increasing capacity. This temporary move adds more than 60% more seats, including double the business class and 120 extra premium economy seats daily. It also opens more Classic Reward seat options for frequent flyers. The extra superjumbo comes from Qantas’ A380 fleet ahead of its scheduled deployment to Dallas in August, making the Sydney–Singapore routes the ideal short-term fit.

Sydney and Melbourne airports boost international arrivals with new SmartGates

Sydney and Melbourne airports are boosting passenger flow with new SmartGate kiosks, thanks to a 2024 deal with the Australian Border Force. Sydney has already installed eight kiosks, with 40 in total expected by 2026, while Melbourne adds 18 to ease peak crowds. This move has cut Sydney’s wait times by 10%, with 90% of travellers clearing immigration in under 36 minutes. Backed by security upgrades and a $200M terminal revamp, it promises faster, smoother arrivals for international passengers.

Air New Zealand debuts new business suites on 787s

Air New Zealand’s new business premier suites are set to launch this month on the airline’s Boeing 787’s, both newer and refurbished models. This is good news for the 777 flyers, as Air New Zealand plans to upgrade the business class cabins starting around 2028. The ultra-premium business luxe suites will stay exclusive only to 787’s flyers, but the older seats on the 777 will be replaced for a more consistent experience across the fleet and are expected to remain in use into the early 2030’s.

Qantas increases Trans-Tasman flights and launches Boeing 787 on Auckland–Brisbane route

Qantas is boosting trans-Tasman travel with a 20% flight increase this summer, adding 60,000 seats in December 2025 and January 2026. Popular routes like Sydney–Christchurch and Brisbane–Queenstown will see major growth. From August 2025, Qantas will introduce its Boeing 787 Dreamliner on Auckland–Brisbane and Los Angeles – Brisbane, adding Premium Economy and increasing premium seats by up to 80%, offering more comfort and choice for travellers during the busy holiday season.

Redeem Qantas points now before August 2025 points increase

Starting August 2025, Qantas will increase the points needed for Classic Reward flights and upgrades by 20%, marking the first change since 2019. This means flights and premium upgrades will cost more points. Bookings made before 5^th August will keep the current rates, so it’s a good idea to review your points balance and redeem rewards before the deadline to maximise their value. This update aims to reflect rising costs while continuing to offer reward options for loyal flyers.

QantasLink launches new Perth routes to Newcastle and Hobart

QantasLink is adding two new direct routes from Perth to Newcastle and Hobart starting this September. The Perth–Newcastle service is a first, operating three times a week with 45,000 seats annually. The Perth–Hobart route is also returning, adding 32,000 seats each year. Both routes will use 150-seat Airbus A319 aircraft and improve access to Qantas’ international network via Perth.

Virgin Australia launches inclusive ‘Try Before You Fly’ program at Adelaide airport

Virgin Australia and Adelaide Airport have launched Try Before You Fly, Australia’s first program helping people with disabilities or health conditions practice the airport experience without flying. After a successful 2024 trial with 200 participants, nearly half flew afterward. The program, now permanent, aims to reduce travel anxiety and boost confidence, setting a new standard in inclusive travel.

Jetstar boosts Sunshine Coast flights to Sydney and Melbourne

Jetstar is going to add 49,000 seats on Sydney and Melbourne services to the Sunshine Coast to boost the amount of travel out of the airport. Sunshine Coast airport will see records of 600,000 seats available across all airlines between July and October as the travel demand for travel into and out of the Sunshine Coast has increased.

Qantas to relaunch direct Auckland to Adelaide flights this October

Qantas is set to resume direct international flights to Adelaide later this year, starting with a seasonal route from Auckland. From 31 October 2025 to 3 May 2026, travellers can fly between Auckland and Adelaide on a red-tailed Boeing 737, operating four times a week. Flight QF175 departs Auckland on Mondays, Fridays, and Saturdays, taking just over four hours.

United airlines to reopen Hong Kong airport lounge by mid-2025

Hong Kong Airport will soon welcome a second Star Alliance lounge, with United Airlines set to reopen its United Club in mid-2025. Closed since February 2020 due to the pandemic, the lounge’s return comes despite United already operating twice-daily flights to San Francisco and Los Angeles. United previously indicated a 2025 reopening, now confirmed by the Hong Kong government with official dates set for June or July.

Qantas adds non-reclining air lounge suites to Sydney–Honolulu flights

Starting 26 October 2025, Qantas will introduce its Air Lounge suites on Sydney–Honolulu Boeing 787 flights. Already used on select Asian routes, these spacious, non-reclining seats offer a more relaxed, lounge-like experience. The service will operate five times a week, increasing to six during the summer peak.

Qantas keeps Emirates first-class Classic Rewards accessible to points members

Qantas and Emirates say Emirates’ first-class suites will still be available to book with Qantas Points at low Classic Reward rates, despite recent changes. Emirates announced it will restrict first-class Classic Reward seats to Skywards frequent flyers with elite status—Platinum, Gold, or Silver—starting 12 May, 2025. This update was quietly posted on the Emirates Miles Calculator page, stating that first-class Classic Rewards will be a tier benefit only for these members.

Air New Zealand strengthens trade partnerships and expands premium offerings

At Air New Zealand’s 85th anniversary, Australia GM Paul O’Brien emphasised strong support for trade partners, who generate over half of Australian sales. Despite recent engine-related capacity issues, improvements are underway with leased aircraft and a new trans-Tasman route. Tasman capacity is set to grow 4–6% next year. The airline is also upgrading premium cabins, planning a full Dreamliner retrofit by 2026 and aiming for 30% premium seating by 2030.

Thailand introduces new passenger rights with compensation and support

Starting 20 May 2025, new passenger rights regulations in Thailand will require airlines to provide greater support and compensation for delays and cancellations on domestic and international flights. For delays over 2 hours, passengers must receive complimentary food, beverages, or vouchers. After 5 hours, airlines must also pay 1,500 baht (about AUD $69) in cash, travel credit, frequent flyer miles, or an equivalent within 14 days. For delays of 10 hours or more, airlines are obligated to provide accommodation, transfers if needed, or allow passengers to cancel their journey with a full refund.

Hotels Hilton celebrates 50 years in Australasia with Sydney hotel renovation

Hilton celebrated its 50th anniversary in Australasia with a special event at the Hilton Sydney, the brand’s oldest hotel in the region. The hotel recently completed a $40 million renovation, transforming the lobby, lounges, guest hallways, and adding 12 new rooms. These upgrades reflect Hilton’s dedication to being the “World’s Iconic Host,” blending culture, charisma, and confidence through inspired design, dynamic dining, and engaging entertainment offerings.

The Rydges Melbourne has proudly secured a spot on Cvent’s prestigious Top 50 Meeting Hotels in Asia Pacific list, ranking in the Top 10 for Australia and claiming the #1 spot in Victoria. This global recognition highlights the hotels who are consistently delivering standout group experiences through exceptional service, tailored offerings, and strategic event planner engagement. Rydges Melbourne had a major transformation in 2023 and is now being acknowledged for the first time globally, which reflects its local charm and elevated event capabilities.

JW Marriott 0pens in downtown Auckland featuring luxury rooms and wellness retreat

The new JW Marriott has officially opened in downtown Auckland, presenting 271 elegant guest rooms and five spacious suites that blend modern luxury with cultural touches inspired by New Zealand’s natural beauty. The hotel’s wellness retreat features a 14-meter heated pool with harbour and skyline views, along with hot and cold recovery treatments including a cold plunge pool, dry sauna, and steam chamber. Guests can also enjoy a fully equipped Technogym fitness centre and book personal training sessions, creating a refined sanctuary focused on relaxation and well-being.

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