Corporate Travel News: December 2024

Airlines/Airports

Virgin Australia and Air New Zealand’s new codeshare agreement

Virgin Australia and Air New Zealand have officially commenced their new codeshare agreement. This will offer Velocity Frequent Flyer members more ways to earn and redeem points across 16 routes, access to Air New Zealand lounges, and added perks such as priority service and extra baggage.

Air New Zealand’s new 787 business class

Air New Zealand has confirmed that its new business class is expected to take flight from February next year. This will see the Kiwi carrier’s 20-year-old Business Premier ‘sleeper shells’ replaced with new 787 Business Premier seats, adopting a more conventional layout. These seats will offer added privacy with small sliding panels, along with creature comforts such as a storage cabinet, wireless device charging and a 24-inch video screen. Click here to see what this new product will look like.

Rex’s regional network receives Government support

The Federal Government has issued an $80 million loan to Rex to help secure the future of Australia’s regional network. These funds will be allocated to a business improvement program aimed at strengthening Rex’s commercial viability. The EY team, serving as voluntary administrators of Rex and its subsidiaries, has stated their intention to expand Rex’s operational fleet and invest in strategic growth initiatives. They have also requested an extension of the voluntary administration period until 30 June 2025, to allow for a comprehensive strategic overhaul.

Delta launches its new Brisbane-Los Angeles service

Last week, Delta Air Lines launched a new direct service between Brisbane and Los Angeles, marking its second destination in Australia. This service will operate three times per week seasonally, enhancing trans-Pacific connectivity.

Air New Zealand reveals new Airpoints status tier

Air New Zealand has revealed that it will introduce a new Airpoints status tier next year, Elite Plus. This will reward the carrier’s frequent flyers with possible benefits such as immediate confirmation of upgrade requests, discounted upgrades, a 50% Airpoints bonus on flights, and free parking at the member’s ‘home airport.’

Sydney Airport trials facial recognition technology

Sydney Airport has begun trialling facial recognition technology which may be key to unlocking a more seamless experience at the airport. This technology was trialled on eligible crew members, allowing them to clear the border without having to show a passport. To learn more about what this means for travellers, click here.

Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways receive interim authorisation

The ACCC has granted interim authorisation for Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways to cooperate on international services. This collaboration will increase the number of daily flights for Sydney-Doha from one to two, for Melbourne-Doha from two to three, and for Brisbane-Doha from one to two. These new services are expected to begin operating by June 2025.

Emirates unveils its ‘S Lounge’ business class

Emirates is gearing up for its next chapter as its first Airbus A350 takes flight in early 2025. The airline has unveiled its ‘S Lounge’ business class, which blends its renowned next-gen design from the Boeing 777 refit with exciting upgrades. Passengers can expect features like wireless charging, fast and free WiFi, and a 4K HD screen.

Virgin Australia and Etihad’s partnership to come to an end

From 1 June 2025, Virgin Australia’s partnership with Etihad will end, making way for Qatar Airways‘ proposed 25% investment. Pending ACCC approval, Qatar Airways will become Virgin’s exclusive interline, codeshare, and loyalty partner in the Middle East. This will restrict Virgin from codesharing with other airlines on international routes to, from or within the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.

Air New Zealand eyes new international routes

Air New Zealand is setting its sights on expanding its global network, with potential new routes to India, the Philippines, Thailand, and Malaysia, alongside European destinations like Germany, France, and the UK. A return to London is under consideration, with Gatwick as a possible gateway and stopover options including Singapore, Los Angeles, and New York.

Travellers can now apply for the UK ETA

From 8 January, travellers from eligible non-European countries such as Australia and New Zealand must complete the new UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering the country. Travellers can apply for their ETA now to ensure they are prepared for travel next year.

Qantas partners with Apple for AirTag bag tracking

Apple’s latest update to its AirTag system, rolling out in late 2024, introduces a powerful feature for lost luggage recovery. The “Share Item Location” allows travellers to share their AirTag’s location with airlines such as Qantas, enabling quicker identification and retrieval of misplaced bags. This new feature promises smoother travel experiences by helping airlines like Qantas track down lost luggage faster using real-time data.

Adelaide welcomes its new Qantas Club lounge

Last month, Adelaide Airport welcomed a new Qantas Club lounge which reflects “the beauty of the South Australian landscape.” This large, light and bright space boasts customised furniture by local designers, a full seasonal buffet menu, and terrazzo coffee tables equipped with wireless charging mats. To learn more about this space, click here.

UK lifts its APD

The UK government has announced changes to Air Passenger Duty (APD) rates, effective 1 April 2025. These adjustments will see increases across all travel classes on long-haul flights, with premium cabin and private jet passengers facing the most significant rises. The updates reflect ongoing efforts to integrate environmental funding into air travel policies. For Australians departing the UK, this will mean higher taxes added to their return travel costs.

Hotels

Adina Town Hall Sydney undergoes major transformation

The 144-room Adina Town Hall Sydney is currently undergoing a significant transformation to create a more homely and ‘liveable’ atmosphere. The updates include a redesigned lobby featuring inviting furniture and reception pods for one-on-one interactions. Additionally, the guest rooms will showcase atmospheric lighting and spotlighting on the curtains. This property is scheduled to reopen in February next year.

IHG’s Voco brand to launch in the Sunshine Coast

IHG Hotels & Resorts is set to introduce its Voco brand to the Sunshine Coast with the development of Voco Maroochydore Sunshine Coast. This 153-room hotel is slated to open in 2028, offering guests locally-inspired spaces with an outdoor pool, specialty restaurant, lobby bar, and modern conferencing facilities.