Corporate Travel News: April 2025

Airlines/Airports

Qantas to debut A350 on New Zealand route ahead of Project Sunrise

Qantas is gearing up for the launch of its ultra-long-haul Airbus A350-1000 flights by introducing the aircraft on trans-Tasman routes in early 2027. These flights will allow frequent flyers from Australia and New Zealand to be among the first to experience the new A350’s premium first-class and business-class suites before it begins non-stop services to destinations like London and New York. The first Project Sunrise long-haul flights are set for mid-2027.

Air New Zealand and Air India sign codeshare agreement

Air New Zealand and Air India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance air connectivity between India and New Zealand. The new codeshare partnership will enable travellers from India to connect via Sydney, Melbourne, or Singapore onto Air New Zealand-operated flights to Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, and Queenstown. The airlines will also explore the possibility of launching a direct service between India and New Zealand by 2028, pending aircraft availability and regulatory approvals.

United Airlines launch Adelaide’s first direct US route

From December 2025, United Airlines will introduce the first-ever non-stop flights between Adelaide and San Francisco, operating three times weekly (Monday, Wednesday, Saturday) until March 2026, with potential for expansion as demand grows. The 15-hour flight on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner will connect South Australia to over 75 US destinations, offering Polaris Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy cabins. Virgin Australia Velocity members can also earn points, status credits, and enjoy lounge access, making travel between Adelaide and the U.S. more seamless than ever.

Latest US entry requirements

US entry requirements have been updated, with tighter border checks and increased scrutiny of electronic devices. Authorities may inspect your emails, messages, or social media accounts, and refusal could result in denied entry. Check Smartraveller (AU) and SafeTravel (NZ) for the latest advice before you travel.

Qatar Airways to bring Qsuites and free WiFi to Australia

Qatar Airways is offering Qsuites and free high-speed WiFi on nearly all of its Boeing 777 flights to Australia. The airline is rolling out Starlink satellite WiFi, with speeds of up to 100Mbps, and expects to complete the full fleet upgrade by mid-2025. The Qsuite Guarantee also allows travellers to switch to another Qsuite flight if their aircraft is swapped to a different business class configuration.

Emirates reopen renovated Auckland lounge

Emirates has reopened its Auckland Airport lounge following an extensive refurbishment, offering upgraded seating, refreshed interiors, and an enhanced dining experience. The 1,219m² space accommodates 220 travellers, with a buffet, pre-plated dining options, and a self-pour bar featuring premium wines and Champagne. Open to first and business class passengers, as well as eligible Emirates Skywards and Qantas Frequent Flyer members, the lounge provides a premium alternative as Qantas prepares to close its own Auckland lounges for redevelopment.

Introducing Virgin Australia’s new Embraer E190s

Virgin Australia’s latest regional jet, the Embraer E190, brings a new level of comfort for business travellers with its unique seating configuration. The jet features two ‘solo’ business class seats for those who prefer their own space, as well as extra-legroom Economy X rows for added comfort. These aircraft will primarily serve Virgin Australia Regional Airlines’ charter fleet, replacing older Fokker 100s, while also supporting regular commercial operations on lower-demand days. With USB power outlets, high-speed WiFi, and a quieter cabin, this new addition promises a more comfortable travel experience for all passengers.

Qantas expands regional lounge upgrades

Qantas is investing in its regional lounge network, with seven lounges set for upgrades following the opening of its expanded Broome Regional Lounge. The multi-million-dollar program will enhance seating, technology, and sustainability features across key regional airports, including Karratha, Mackay, and Rockhampton. The initiative aligns with Qantas’ long-term commitment to regional connectivity, supported by the introduction of over 40 new aircraft to the QantasLink fleet in the coming years.

Australian travellers gain access to US Global Entry Program

Australian travellers can now enjoy expedited entry into the United States with the expansion of the Global Entry program. Following a successful trial with 1,000 selected participants, the program will be available to all eligible Australians in the second half of 2025. Global Entry provides access to dedicated customs and security lanes at US airports, as well as TSA PreCheck for domestic flights. Unlike the initial trial phase, the broader rollout removes the requirement for prior US travel, making it more accessible to frequent and first-time travellers alike.

Australia expands digital arrivals app to more Qantas flights

Australia’s digital arrivals solution, the Australia Travel Declaration (ATD), is now available for all international Qantas flights arriving in Brisbane, including services from Los Angeles. The ATD, currently integrated within the Qantas app, allows passengers to complete their incoming passenger card digitally, with multi-passenger booking support now included. The Australian Border Force has reported positive feedback from nearly 12,000 users and is evaluating expansion to other airlines and airports in 2025. The paper-based Incoming Passenger Card remains available as an alternative for travellers.

Qantas launches direct flights between Darwin and Singapore

Qantas has introduced a new direct route between Darwin and Singapore, enhancing connectivity for both business and leisure travellers. The service is operating on a Boeing 737, with plans to transition to the more modern Airbus A220 in October of this year. Flight schedules align with key Qantas services through Singapore, providing additional travel options across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

EU delays ETIAS travel authorisation to late 2026

The European Union has postponed the launch of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), now expected to take effect in the last quarter of 2026. Once implemented, ETIAS will be a mandatory electronic travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers, including Australians, visiting the Schengen Area. The €7 (A$11.50) authorisation will be valid for three years and permit multiple short-term stays of up to 90 days within a rolling 180-day period. The EU has confirmed it will announce the exact start date several months before implementation.

Qantas enhances economy seating on A330 fleet

Qantas is rolling out a multi-million-dollar upgrade to its Airbus A330-200 fleet, introducing redesigned economy seats for improved comfort on key Asia routes, including Hong Kong, Singapore, and Tokyo. The new seats feature enhanced lumbar support, a six-way adjustable headrest, and a larger 13.3” 4K touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity. Travellers will also benefit from fast USB-C charging and complimentary WiFi, aligning the experience with Qantas’ upcoming long-haul non-stop flights to New York and London.

Air Canada unveils business class suites for A321XLR fleet

Air Canada has confirmed that its upcoming Airbus A321XLR aircraft will feature 14 private lie-flat business class suites in a 1-1 configuration, offering direct aisle access for all passengers. The new cabins, designed in collaboration with London-based studio Acumen, align with Air Canada’s evolving design standard, emphasising warmth and hospitality. The A321XLRs, set to enter service in late 2025, will operate on transcontinental routes within North America and select transatlantic destinations.

Qantas to roll out free international WiFi

Qantas has begun rolling out free WiFi on select international routes, starting with its A330 flights to Asia. Coverage will expand across the Tasman to New Zealand mid-year, with upgrades planned for 787s and A380s. The airline is partnering with Viasat to enhance connectivity until the ViaSat-3 F3 satellite comes online in 2026, providing global coverage at higher speeds.

Sydney domestic T2 overhaul to begin in May

Sydney Airport will commence a $200 million redevelopment of its T2 domestic terminal in May, marking the most significant upgrade in over 30 years. The project aims to streamline check-in and security, reduce congestion, and enhance the passenger experience. Key improvements include next-generation security screening, self-service kiosks, expanded baggage handling capacity, and dedicated security lanes for families and assistance passengers. The upgrade will be completed in phases, with security enhancements expected by the end of 2025 and check-in upgrades finalised by late 2026.

Qantas revamps international economy meal service

Qantas has introduced an expanded meal service for international Economy passengers, featuring a new seasonal menu and additional side options such as cheese and crackers, fresh salads, or desserts. Meals will now be served on a redesigned 30% larger underplate as part of the airline’s investment in enhancing the in-flight dining experience. Additionally, 45 new cocktails, including non-alcoholic options, have been introduced onboard and in lounges worldwide.

Emirates celebrates 25 years of connecting Sydney to the world

Emirates recently marked 25 years of flying to Sydney, having launched its first service in March 2000 with just four weekly flights. Today, the airline operates three daily, direct flights between Sydney and Dubai, connecting Australian travellers to over 140 destinations worldwide. With more than nine million passengers served and over 35,000 flights operated, Emirates continues to provide seamless connections to key cities across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

 

Hotels

Minor Hotels expands Oaks portfolio in Victoria

Minor Hotels has expanded its Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites portfolio with the addition of three Victorian properties. Oaks Vue Suites Geelong and Oaks R Suites Geelong opened under the brand on March 3, while Oaks Melbourne Flemington Suites joined earlier this month. The new locations offer a mix of hotel rooms and serviced apartments, catering to business and extended-stay travelers with modern amenities, fully equipped kitchens, and corporate meeting spaces.

Hyatt welcomes Hyatt House South Melbourne

Hyatt Hotels is set to launch its extended-stay brand, Hyatt House, in Australia this May, marking the brand’s debut in the Pacific region. Located within the newly completed AU$280 million Oasis Residences development in South Melbourne, the Hyatt House South Melbourne is designed to meet the growing demand for longer stays. Offering apartment-style living with kitchenettes, family-friendly spaces, and pet-friendly accommodation, the hotel aims to provide a home-like experience for business and leisure travelers alike. Positioned in a prime location with easy access to Melbourne’s cultural and business hubs, the property also boasts 360-degree views of Albert Park Lake and Port Phillip Bay.

Parkroyal Paramatta unveils refreshed guest rooms

Parkroyal Parramatta has completed an extensive refurbishment of its guest rooms, designed by John Dunn of IDC Designs. Drawing inspiration from the natural beauty of the Greater Sydney Basin, the refreshed rooms feature patterned carpets resembling Scribbly Gum bark, watercolour graphics of native wattle, and a colour palette reflecting sandstone hues. Enhancements include smart mirrors, rain showers, and eco-friendly filtered water taps, offering a modern and sustainable stay.

Minor Hotels expands with fifth franchised property in Australia

Minor Hotels has expanded its presence in Australia with the addition of Oaks Redcliffe Mon Komo Suites, marking its fifth franchised hotel in the region. This move supports the company’s goal of reaching 850 properties globally by 2027. As part of this expansion, the brand has already seen success with new franchise locations in Toowoomba, Townsville, and Melbourne.

Wyndham builds upon Adelaide presence

Wyndham Hotel Group is set to expand its footprint in Adelaide with plans for a new 15-storey hotel on South Terrace. If approved, the slimline 94-room property will feature a compact design with a narrow 9-metre frontage and 10sqm rooms. The proposed hotel would join Wyndham’s existing Adelaide property, TRYP by Wyndham Pulteney Street, further strengthening the brand’s presence in the city.

 

 

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