Corporate Travel News: August 2023

Airlines/Airports

Qantas begins domestic boarding group trials

In late July, Qantas kicked off their trial of boarding groups on domestic flights, beginning in Brisbane ahead of nationwide adoption by October this year. To improve the boarding process, the aircraft will be separated into five zones and passengers will be assigned to a specific zone. Those who will be involved in the trial will be notified in advance.

TTF proposes Trans-Tasman travel reform

The Tourism and Transport Forum (TTF) has suggested that Australia and New Zealand should trial new entry and screening technology. This technology includes facial recognition and digital arrival cards, which are currently being tested in New Zealand. The aim is to enable Trans-Tasman passengers to move between various checkpoints, from baggage check-in to aircraft boarding, without the need for physical documents such as passports or boarding passes.

Qantas considering direct flights to Paris, Chicago and Seattle

It has been revealed that Qantas is considering Paris, Chicago, and Seattle as possible destinations for its long-range Boeing 787s. The upcoming launch of the Airbus A350 in late 2025 will likely free up capacity on the 787s for international point-to-point routes. However, for these plans to come to fruition, Qantas and Perth Airport must first come to an agreement, as the airport is a sought-after “international hub” for Qantas.

Etihad’s A380 makes its long-awaited return

Last month, Etihad’s A380 superjumbo made its return to the London and Abu Dhabi seven-hour connection. By December, it is anticipated that the A380 will appear on three of Etihad’s four daily connections between the two cities. This opulence of the first class option may see many passengers opt for the A380 rather than the 787 Dreamliner.

Air Canada and British Airways upgrade in-flight entertainment systems

Air Canada and British Airways, have both upgraded their inflight entertainment systems to enhance their customers’ flying experience. Starting 1 August, Air Canada will offer exclusive Apple TV+ original programming, which will increase their onboard entertainment content by more than 95% since last year. Meanwhile, British Airways has doubled its available content for customers since the beginning of this year, providing a wider range of brand-new content.

Qantas reveals A220 plans for 2024

In early 2024, Qantas plans to fly its inaugural Airbus A220 between Canberra and Melbourne. As more A220s are introduced, this aircraft will gradually replace the Boeing 717s on regional and domestic routes. The A220’s extended range will also enable international flights to South-East Asia, offering passengers the latest in comfort and technology.

China Southern Airlines boost Melbourne flights

From November this year, China Southern Airlines will add an extra seven flights between Melbourne and Guangzhou per week with plans to add another three weekly before the end of 2024. This major aviation capacity boost will provide various travel options for business and leisure travellers between the two key markets.

Rex Airlines add more 737s

Rex Airlines has recently secured a lease for two more Boeing 737-800 aircraft, bringing their 737 fleet to a total of nine. The two new aircraft are expected to arrive in Australia by the end of July and mid-September this year, with the first one being put into service in mid-August. This is a significant step towards Rex’s ambition of providing flights between all the capitals in Australia.

Refreshed Air New Zealand menu

Business premier guests on select long-range Air New Zealand flights will be treated to a new menu described as ‘a taste of Aotearoa.’ The airline’s menu will showcase dishes made with native ingredients and local produce, aiming to blend classic indigenous flavours with more contemporary cuisines to offer a unique and flavorful experience. The diverse selection of dishes will be customisable to cater to your preferences. In addition, a new seasonal signature cocktail crafted in collaboration with East Imperial will be introduced.

Emirates trialling pre-ordered meals

At the end of last month, Emirates debuted a meal pre-ordering service on select flights via their website and app. This allows business class passengers to choose their mains between 14 days and 24 hours prior to departure. This is part of Emirates’ ongoing $2 billion upgrade to inflight experience, which has included the rollout of premium economy and cabin refreshes.

United Airlines reveals latest first class

United Airlines has provided a sneak peek into their upcoming domestic first class upgrade, which will feature wireless charging, privacy screens, and the option to use your phone as a TV remote. While it’s termed “first class,” the domestic version offered by United Airlines is more similar to international business class.

Air New Zealand to increase Trans-Tasman flights in early 2024

In response to a remarkable surge in Trans-Tasman demand following the announcement of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour dates, Air New Zealand has facilitated an extra two thousand new seats from Wellington, Christchurch and Auckland to Melbourne and Sydney. This will prove beneficial for business and leisure travellers looking to fly Trans-Tasman in early 2024.

Small Qantas aircraft open new Tasman routes

As Qantas continues to expand its Trans-Tasman network, they have announced the launch of a new daily service connecting Wellington and Brisbane from the end of October this year. This service will utilise the Embracer E190 aircraft which only has ninety-four seats, roughly half the size of the Boeing 737-800. This marks the first instance of an E190 being used on the Tasman, offering a cost advantage that may open other routes such as Wellington to Canberra.

Virgin Australia’s ANA Partnership begins

Recently, Virgin Australia started a partnership with All Nippon Airways which provides several frequent flyer benefits. Velocity members can now earn points on all ANA-operated departures that have a VA or NH flight number. It is expected that soon, the opportunity to redeem velocity points on ANA flights will also be available.

Qantas’ final Boeing 787 arrives

The last Boeing 787 ordered by Qantas has finally arrived in Australia, almost two decades after the first one was ordered. Named ‘Snowy River’, the 787-9 touched down in Melbourne last month, experiencing over two years of delay due to the global pandemic. Qantas will look to put this aircraft into service as soon as possible to restore their international fleet to pre-pandemic levels.

Fiji Airways flying direct between Canberra and Nadi

Late last month, Fiji Airways started its inaugural connection between Canberra and Nadi, marking the first international flight from Canberra since 2020. Flights will begin with two weekly options on Tuesdays and Fridays, and will increase to three times a week with an added Sunday service at the end of September. A Boeing 737 MAX will be used for these flights, which will have eight business class recliners and 162 economy seats.

Bonza reveals its third base

Earlier this month, Bonza announced that the Gold Coast Airport will serve as its third base, where two aircraft will operate flights to eleven existing Bonza destinations. This will allow Gold Coast travellers to reach regional destinations such as Albury, Bundaberg and Cairns. In time, the airline has also revealed that new destinations will be added to the Gold Coast connection.

Turkish Airlines to launch Australian flights

Starting this December, Turkish Airlines will offer flights between Istanbul and Australia. While the airline is still deciding on its first destination, both Sydney and Melbourne are part of its strategic plan. The airline has confirmed that it will offer three flights per week, with a stopover in Singapore, using its Boeing 787s. The number of flights will eventually increase to five per week before becoming a daily service in the near future.

Increased Perth-Hong Kong flights for Cathay Pacific

From 6 December 2023, Cathay Pacific will increase its Perth-Hong Kong route from three flights per week to five. With this increase, the airline has also opted to change the aircraft from an Airbus A350 to a Boeing 777 which provides additional seats for the route. It is anticipated that the airline’s other Australian routes will increase before the end of the year as they look to rebuild their Australian network following the global pandemic.

Korean Air reveals new business class suites

Korean Air has announced it will be introducing new business class suites in both its Boeing 787 and 777 fleets. The airline’s new business class suite seat design will debut on its 787 jets which are expected to arrive in October before taking flight in November 2023. These same suites will later be introduced on the airline’s 777 fleet, resulting in wider aisles for passengers.

Hong Kong Airport development continues

Following the 25th birthday of the Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), the Hong Kong Government and Airport Authority have affirmed plans to continue the ‘Airport City’ development strategy, designed to strengthen the airport’s strategy as an international aviation hub. This strategy focuses on the development of various sectors such as aviation, tourism, trade, retail and entertainment. Recently, this was reflected in the development of a third runway to combat long-term air traffic.

Cathay Pacific’s first class lounge in Hong Kong reopens

Great news for global travel and Hong Kong, as Cathay Pacific’s ‘The Pier First’ lounge has reopened at Hong Kong Airport. This lounge is a popular choice for first class passengers and top-tier frequent flyers, featuring a dining room, bar area, and cozy day suites for relaxation.

Hotels

Melbourne’s dual hotel project receives approval

A dual hotel project in Melbourne Docklands worth AU$340 million has been granted planning approval. The project will include a Collection by TFE Hotel with 200 rooms and an A by Adina Hotel with 105 rooms. The development will also feature a 1000 pax conference centre and Australia’s longest escalator with visual projection technology that will lead guests to the conference centre. This development promises to provide a high-end venue for large-scale events in Melbourne.

New meeting spaces at the Dorsett Melbourne

The Dorsett Melbourne has just announced the launch of its new meeting room spaces and event packages. These spaces include three versatile meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 40 people for cabaret and banquet-style seating, 22 people for boardroom-style seating, and 48 people for theatre-style seating. The event packages also present desirable options such as complimentary venue hire, upgrades to barista coffee, and thirty minutes of conference wind-down canapes and drinks.

Geelong Convention and Exhibition Centre selects project bidder

The Geelong Convention and Exhibition Centre has chosen Plenary Conventions consortium to undertake their project, with the aim of completing it by 2026. The project involves constructing a convention and exhibition centre, which will consist of a 1000-seat venue, two large exhibition spaces, meeting rooms, conference facilities, and flexible event spaces. Additionally, the precinct will include a 200-key Crowne Plaza Hotel and various retail spaces.

W Sydney closes in on October opening

After several years of development, the highly anticipated W Sydney is finally set to open on 12 October 2023. Rising over Darling Harbour, the hotel will feature 585 sophisticated rooms and suites, a restaurant, a fitness centre and 8 event rooms spanning 1,308 total square meters. The luxury hotel promises to provide a fresh outlook of the city, ensuring an unparalleled experience for all its guests.

Luxury accommodation proposed for the 12 Apostles

Over the years, the incentive potential of the Great Ocean Road has been hindered by the absence of luxury accommodation options. Fortunately, a solution seems to be in the works with a 79-hectare property now up for sale, located across from the 12 Apostles. Additionally, there are approved plans for the creation of the 12 Apostles Hot Springs Resort, which will include as many as 150 deluxe eco-pods, a spa with 12 rooms, event facilities, and an amphitheatre.

Queen Victoria Market’s billion-dollar makeover

Melbourne’s famous, 145-year-old Queen Victoria Market precinct is set to receive an AU$1.7 billion revamp through a new partnership with the City of Melbourne and Lendlease. This development will include new residential accommodation, office tours and the establishment of a 1.8-hectare space to be known as Market Square, forming one of the city’s largest public spaces and potentially one of its most prominent event venues. Community consultation has only recently begun so completion isn’t anticipated until 2028 at this stage.

Major milestone for the Queen’s Wharf

The final section of the Queen’s Wharf Sky Deck has now been maneuvered into place, signifying the completion of the 250m open-air wraparound space. This deck will encompass a signature restaurant, hero bar and event space, forming the centrepiece of the Star Grand Hotel. The Sky Deck as a whole can fit up to 1,500 people, offering an exclusive event hire opportunity.

Choice to welcome Ascend Collection Hotel in Mooloolaba

This month, Choice will welcome its 15h Ascend Collection Hotel, First Light Mooloolaba, on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. The building will consist of 67 bedroom apartments, as well as a pool and gym. Boasting a modern aesthetic, it is expected to attract both leisure and business travellers.

IHG adds the RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka to its extensive portfolio

IHG recently announced that it will begin a JPY13.5 billion renovation of one of Osaka’s most renowned hotels, RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka, after which it will be rebranded as a Vignette Collection Hotel. The hotel boasts 1,039 guest rooms, 18 restaurants and bars, and various meeting spaces.

Hyatt Centric Malta to open in early 2024

Hyatt has partnered with JUEL Hospitality Limited to open a new Hyatt Centric Malta with 160 rooms. The hotel will have on-site dining, a fitness center, a rooftop terrace, and over 4,300 square meters of meeting space. Additionally, it will be located within walking distance of many of Malta’s beautiful beaches and entertainment venues. The hotel is expected to open in early 2024.