Corporate Travel News: September 2025

Airlines/Airports

Virgin Australia’s new ‘E-jet’ takes flight

Virgin Australia launched its Embraer E190-E2 on September 8, flying from Canberra to Perth. The 2-2 economy seating removes middle seats, and business class offers solo seats with power outlets. Passengers benefit from large overhead bins, extra-legroom options, and Wi-Fi for business and Platinum members. The jets will replace Fokker 100s, serving FIFO mining charters and regular Perth routes, with eight aircraft on order and the first four expected by early 2026.

Qantas launches A321XLRs Sydney–Melbourne & Perth

Qantas will commence flying its new Airbus A321XLR jets on the Sydney-Melbourne and Sydney-Perth routes from mid-September, with additional routes to follow. The 48-jet order includes 20 with lie-flat business seats for long-haul flights. Initial A321XLRs will feature 20 recliner business seats, 177–180 economy seats with extra legroom options, larger overhead bins, USB power, device holders, and Wi-Fi, rather than seatback screens.

Qantas extends and expands Perth–Rome Service for 2026

Qantas travellers will have even more options to Europe in 2026, with the seasonal Perth–Rome service extended and expanded. Operated by the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, the route will run from 3 May to 23 October 2026, increasing from three to four flights per week. This boost adds 40+ extra services and nearly 10,000 additional seats to Aeroporti di Roma. The expansion marks a milestone year, with almost 300,000 seats available on nonstop flights from Perth to London, Paris, and Rome, alongside the launch of new international routes to Auckland and Johannesburg at the end of 2025. *Flights subject to government and regulatory approval.

Virgin updates 737 cabins with modern dividers and more seats

Virgin Australia has removed its original business/economy divider and aisle-blocking rope from its Boeing 737s as part of a $110 million cabin revamp. These have been replaced with a “cross-aisle curtain,” which will remain in use even after new overhead-mounted divider panels are added from early next year. The updated dividers will be translucent for improved visibility and to free up space, allowing for 1–2 additional rows of economy seats. The changes aim to modernise the cabin while maintaining some separation between business and economy classes.

New rules for Aussies travelling to Bali, Jakarta

From 1 October 2025, all travellers to Indonesia, including Bali, Jakarta, and Surabaya, must complete the free All Indonesia card within 72 hours of arrival. This digital form records arrival/departure details, as well as accommodation, streamlining immigration, customs, and health checks into a single QR code. It takes under three minutes to complete but does not replace a visa or visa-on-arrival, which costs AUD $50 for Australians.

QantasLink launches Christmas Island and Cocos flights this November

QantasLink will launch flights to Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands from 3 November 2025 as part of a five-year partnership with the Australian Government. Operating twice weekly from Perth on A319 and A320 aircraft, the new services will support local communities, tourism, freight, and government operations. Bookings will open on 18 August, making it easier for travellers to access these remote islands through Qantas’ network.

Western Sydney Airport Metro to deliver modern transit in 2027

Construction of the Western Sydney Airport Metro Station is over halfway complete, but it won’t be ready for passengers when the airport (WSI) opens in late 2026. The 23km metro line connecting St Mary’s to Bradfield via the airport is now expected to open in 2027. The station and driverless trains are designed with travellers in mind, featuring wide platforms and aisles, space for luggage, and digital flight information. The line is expected to carry over 7,000 passengers per hour, aiming to provide a smooth and modern transit experience.

Brisbane–Palau route extended as Australian visitor numbers surge

Qantas has extended its direct Brisbane–Koror (Palau) flights for another year, following strong demand since their launch in December 2024. The weekly Boeing 737 service supports trade, tourism, and people-to-people links, with Australian arrivals up 113% in the first half of 2025. Palau’s marine life and sustainable tourism continue to attract first-time Australian travellers, boosting the local economy.

Qantas to swap loyalty bonus points for status credits

Qantas will remove the option to choose 8,000 Qantas Points as a Loyalty Bonus from 15 September 2025. Instead, 50 Status Credits will be automatically awarded each time a member earns 500 Status Credits, up to a maximum of four times per year. This ends the ability to delay the bonus and roll credits into the following membership year. Qantas says the change aligns with member preferences but also helps reduce the airline’s points liability.

Emirates bans power bank use on flights starting October 2025

Starting 1 October 2025, Emirates will update its in-flight power bank policy to enhance passenger safety. Passengers can still carry power banks with a capacity of under 100Wh, provided they are stored under the seat. While they cannot be used or charged during the flight, this change helps reduce the risk of lithium battery incidents, ensuring a safer travel experience for everyone on board.

Qantas adds lie-flat business to A321XLR

Qantas will introduce lie-flat business class suites with seatback entertainment and fast Wi-Fi on 16 Airbus A321XLR jets starting in 2028. Serving routes such as Perth–India and Adelaide–Singapore, the jets will replace older 737s and open new routes in Southeast Asia. Premium single-aisle designs from leading manufacturers will offer privacy, comfort, and a consistent high-quality experience on medium- and long-haul flights.

New Qantas economy seats coming to A350s in 2027

Qantas is introducing a new international economy seat for its upcoming Airbus A350 fleet, which is set to debut in 2027. Designed by Recaro, the seat offers more knee room, extra cushioning, and a cradling recline for better comfort on long-haul flights. It features a 13.3″ 4K OLED screen with Bluetooth audio, USB-C fast charging, and a device stand. Passengers can also enjoy free high-speed Wi-Fi. These seats will first appear on Qantas’ ultra-long-haul routes to London and New York and will later be available on A350 and Boeing 787 aircraft from 2028.

Qantas adds Brisbane–Manila flight from October 2025

Qantas will increase Brisbane-Manila flights from four to five per week starting 27 October 2025, with improved flight times and continued Sydney-Manila service. Flights are operated using Airbus A330s, with the transition to Boeing 787s scheduled for 2028. Travel between Australia and the Philippines is increasing, driven by rising tourism and business travel. Qantas’ Jetstar will also commence year-round Perth-Manila flights and seasonal Brisbane-Cebu flights in late 2025.

Qantas plans major Sydney business lounge upgrade for 2027

Qantas’ Sydney and Melbourne international business lounges are showing their age, particularly Sydney’s flagship. A major renovation of a Sydney lounge is planned for 2027, aiming to enhance space, privacy, and dining facilities, while increasing capacity by 40%. During the upgrade, some closures and rerouting to partner or first-class lounges are expected. The airline is prioritising investment in its new Auckland lounge first, with Sydney’s transformation to follow. No updates have been provided yet on Melbourne’s lounge.

British Airways expands London long-haul flights in 2026

British Airways will expand long-haul flights from London Gatwick and Heathrow by summer 2026. Bangkok flights from Gatwick will operate year-round, with increased capacity and enhanced connections via Bangkok Airways. Gatwick will also see an extra weekly flight to Kingston, Jamaica. From Heathrow, BA will resume double-daily flights to Miami and daily service to Dallas. Las Vegas, San Diego, and Austin will see more frequent flights. All New York JFK flights will now operate from Heathrow, with nine daily departures. Services to Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Doha will also increase.

Singapore Airlines to refresh premium economy seats from 2026

Singapore Airlines is preparing a “refresh” of its premium economy seats rather than a complete redesign. The update could range from new leather upholstery to tech upgrades, such as USB-C power, larger seatback screens, and Bluetooth audio. Details will be announced closer to the rollout of retrofitted Airbus A350-900s and new Boeing 777-9s, scheduled to begin in Q2 2026. The A350-900ULR fleet, used for ultra-long-haul flights such as Singapore–New York, will follow in early 2027 with new first-class suites and an expanded business class.

Qantas A350s to fly non-stop to London and New York

Qantas will start flying its new Airbus A350-1000s non-stop to London and New York from 2027, with Singapore and Los Angeles also on the schedule. The jets feature first class, business, premium economy, and economy seats. From the early 2030s, they will replace A380s, offering fewer seats but more efficient routes. Twelve A350s will serve Project Sunrise ultra-long-haul flights, while another 12 will replace A330s in a higher-density layout.

Qatar Airways joins JFK’s new terminal one in 2026

Qatar Airways will move to the new Terminal One at New York’s JFK Airport in 2026, where it will also open its first dedicated U.S. lounge. The move is part of JFK’s $19 billion redevelopment, with the terminal set to feature 14 gates by 2026 and expand to 23 gates across 2.3 million square feet by 2030. Qatar’s 1,394 sqm lounge will offer VIP check-in, direct gate access, premium dining and relaxation areas for business-class travellers. The airline, which currently operates 18 weekly flights from JFK, will join several other international carriers relocating to the new terminal.

Jetstar 787s get seats, wi-fi, and long-haul upgrade

Jetstar is giving its Boeing 787 fleet a multi-million-dollar upgrade from March 2026, adding new Recaro seats, Wi-Fi, and 60W USB-C charging. Business class will more than double in size, replacing older recliners with Recaro’s PL3530 seats, while economy shifts to the same CL3710 seats used by Qantas 787s. The refit also features crew rest bunks, enabling flights of up to 16 hours and opening new long-haul routes, including the USA, India, Sri Lanka, and South Africa.

Australia to launch fully online passport applications next year

The federal government will launch a secure website next year, allowing Australians to apply for new passports entirely online, using existing identity verification systems. In-person applications at Australia Post will remain available. Recent updates include a wait-time estimator and a status tracker. Free, fast-track options are also available for renewals, eliminating the $300 Priority fee.

 

Hotels

EVT to rebrand Melbourne Radisson as Rydges

EVT will manage and rebrand the former Radisson on Flagstaff Gardens as Rydges Flagstaff Gardens from January 2026. The 184-room hotel will undergo a complete refurbishment, upgrading its guest rooms, dining facilities, and public areas. Located near Queen Victoria Markets and Marvel Stadium, the property complements EVT’s existing Rydges Melbourne, enhancing its city portfolio.

Marriott expands Hotel portfolio across New Zealand

After acquiring Starwood in 2016, Marriott focused on integrating its portfolio and opened Four Points by Sheraton Auckland. Despite Covid-related setbacks, they signed deals for Moxy hotels in Queenstown and Auckland. With New Zealand’s borders reopening in 2023, Marriott launched the luxury JW Marriott Auckland in 2025 and plans to expand more brands nationwide. Their Auckland portfolio includes JW Marriott, Four Points, and an upcoming Moxy. They are actively negotiating new hotel projects, confident in New Zealand’s growing travel demand and investment climate.

Oaks Auckland hotel debuts as Minor hotels expand in New Zealand

Oaks Hotels, part of Minor Hotels, has rebranded Auckland’s Nesuto Stadium Hotel as Oaks Auckland Hotel through a long-term deal with Mulpha International. The 244-room property, situated near Spark Arena and the waterfront, features modern hotel rooms, self-contained apartments, refreshed dining at DASH, a co-working lobby, and wellness-focused facilities, including a fitness centre and community activities. This expansion reflects Minor Hotels’ ongoing growth in Australasia and commitment to delivering culturally connected, lifestyle-focused guest experiences.

Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort luxury upgrade

Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort, the only 5-star resort on Noosa’s Hastings Street, is undergoing a significant transformation to elevate its status as a luxury destination. The multi-stage upgrade includes a complete redesign of all 175 guest rooms and suites, as well as a refresh of its signature Noosa Beach House restaurant. The new design seamlessly blends natural textures and indoor-outdoor flow, reflecting Noosa’s relaxed elegance.

QT Hotels launches dog-friendly Pup Yeah!

QT Hotels & Resorts has introduced Pup Yeah!, a luxury dog-friendly stay across Australia and New Zealand from August 26, in time for International Dog Day. Designed for dogs of all sizes, it features premium beds, gourmet treats, in-room dining, and Smith & Burton grooming products. Guests also receive local dog-friendly maps and walking services. The experience starts at $120 for three nights.

 

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