Corporate Travel News: March 2025

Airlines/Airports

Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways receive Government approval

Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways are strengthening their partnership, with the Australian Government approving Qatar Airways Group’s 25% stake in Virgin Australia. This strategic move unlocks new opportunities for business travellers, offering greater connectivity to Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. With Virgin Australia set to launch long-haul flights to Doha from 1 June, the partnership marks a significant step in expanding international travel options.

Qantas unveils major 737 upgrades for business and economy class

Qantas is set to upgrade over half of its Boeing 737 fleet, enhancing the travel experience for business and economy passengers alike. The refresh, starting in late 2026, will introduce new seating, larger overhead bins with up to 50% more space, and modern cabin finishes. While in-seat entertainment screens may be replaced with personal device streaming, passengers can expect convenient charging options, ambient LED lighting, and a refreshed interior.

Singapore Airlines to offer lie-flat business class on every flight

Singapore Airlines will retire its last 737-800 in late October, ensuring every flight features lie-flat business class seats. With this move, Singapore Airlines becomes one of the few carriers to offer 100% lie-flat business class across both single-aisle and twin-aisle jets. Additionally, free WiFi will be available fleet-wide, with access for all passengers, including KrisFlyer members in premium economy and economy.

Qantas Auckland lounge set for major overhaul

Qantas is set to transform its Auckland International Lounge, with renovations kicking off this year and a grand reopening expected in early 2026. To fast-track the upgrade, both the business and first-class lounges will temporarily close, with eligible travellers redirected to the Emirates Auckland Lounge in the interim. The new premium lounge will offer expanded seating, a fresh dining experience, and a sleek design by the team behind the acclaimed Qantas Singapore First Lounge. Business travellers can look forward to a larger, more luxurious space to relax and recharge before their flights.

Emirates debuts its new first class on Melbourne-Dubai flights

Emirates is elevating luxury air travel with its ‘game changer’ first class suites, debuting on the daily Melbourne-Dubai service from 31 March. Inspired by the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, these fully enclosed suites feature floor-to-ceiling doors, zero-gravity recline seats, and personalised climate and lighting controls. High-tech additions include virtual windows, a 32” 4K HD entertainment screen, and a video call system for in-suite dining.

Air New Zealand unveils Thirteen Forty Five wine label

Air New Zealand is raising a glass to its rich history with the launch of the Thirteen Forty Five wine label, named after the distance of its inaugural flight from Auckland to Sydney in 1940. Crafted in partnership with renowned New Zealand producer Villa Maria, the label features a signature Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, available in lounges and Premium Economy cabins. This exclusive wine, a product of Air New Zealand’s 85th anniversary celebrations, offers a unique tasting experience that blends the airline’s legacy with New Zealand’s finest wines.

QantasLink boosts regional SA travel with larger aircraft

Qantas is enhancing regional travel in South Australia by upgrading all Adelaide regional routes to the larger QantasLink Q400 turboprop aircraft. This change, made possible by the airline’s investment in 14 additional Q400s, will bring more seats, faster flight times, and improved reliability to destinations including Port Lincoln, Whyalla, Mount Gambier, and Kangaroo Island. Once the transition is complete, three Q400s will be based in South Australia, replacing the smaller Q300 aircraft.

Qatar Airways switches aircraft on Perth-Doha Route

Qatar Airways is set to remove its Airbus A380 from the Perth-Doha route, replacing it with a Boeing 777 from 25 June, the same day Virgin Australia launches its own Perth-Doha service using a Qatar Airways-operated 777. This shift will provide business travellers with twice-daily flights to Doha and beyond, increasing seat capacity but removing the A380’s first-class cabins and upper deck lounge. While Virgin’s 777 is expected to feature Qatar Airways’ Qsuite business class, Qatar’s own aircraft may offer a less private 2-2-2 configuration, though details are yet to be confirmed.

Qantas launches Perth to Busselton flights

Qantas is set to launch a new Perth to Busselton route from 27 June, enhancing access to the Margaret River region for both domestic and international travellers. Operating three times a week, the route will improve connectivity for business and leisure travellers, complementing Jetstar’s existing direct flights from Sydney and Melbourne.

Air Canada to introduce free WiFi

Air Canada is set to introduce free inflight WiFi for Aeroplan members, beginning in May 2025. The rollout will start with domestic and U.S. routes, covering over 85% of aircraft, with international flights to follow in 2026.

Qantas’ first Airbus A321XLR inbound from Hamburg

Qantas’ first Airbus A321XLR has left the paint shop at Airbus Hamburg, marking a key milestone in the airline’s fleet renewal program. Set for delivery in April, the Great Ocean Road will enhance connectivity across the South Pacific and South East Asia, offering increased capacity and improved efficiency.

Launceston Airport set for biggest renovation in 20 years

Travellers passing through Launceston Airport can look forward to a major upgrade, with a multi-million dollar renovation set to enhance the departure experience. The expansion will introduce new dining options, including Gatty’s Bar and Kitchen, Kanamaluka Café, and Tasmania’s own Liv Eat, along with improved Wi-Fi and charging facilities. With a design inspired by Tasmania’s landscapes and a focus on elevating hospitality, the airport is gearing up to offer a more seamless and enjoyable journey for travellers.

Brisbane Airport breaks records as international travel surges

Brisbane Airport has soared past pre-Covid passenger levels, with its international terminal recording back-to-back record-breaking months in December and January. The surge in international travel has been fuelled by new routes such as Delta Air Lines to Los Angeles, alongside increased capacity from key carriers like Qantas and Singapore Airlines. Auckland and Singapore topped the list of the busiest international routes for January, reflecting strong business travel demand across the region.

Queensland Airports hit post-pandemic passenger records

Queensland’s airports are soaring to new heights, with January marking a post-pandemic record for passenger numbers across Queensland Airports Limited’s four airports. More than 760,000 travellers passed through, with Gold Coast Airport alone welcoming over 622,000 passengers. Regional airports also saw strong demand, with Townsville and Mount Isa recording their third-busiest Januarys on record.

Heathrow Announces Major Expansion Plans

Heathrow Airport has unveiled a multi-billion-pound investment program aimed at upgrading its infrastructure and expanding capacity. The privately funded initiative includes expanding Terminals 2 and 5, improving the airfield layout, enhancing transport connectivity, and increasing sustainability efforts.

Hotels

Adina Town Hall reopens with a fresh new look

Adina Town Hall has reopened following an extensive refurbishment by Bates Smart, offering a refreshed, apartment-style accommodation experience. The 144-room hotel has been redesigned to create a sophisticated yet homely atmosphere, with open layouts, high-quality materials, and contemporary furnishings. Guests can expect a refined aesthetic that balances elegance with comfort, aligning with TFE Hotels’ revitalised Adina portfolio.

The Eve Hotel Sydney opens its doors

Sydney’s newest boutique hotel, The Eve Hotel Sydney, has officially opened its doors within the Wunderlich Lane lifestyle precinct. Operated by TFE Hotels, the 102-room design-driven hotel offers a luxury stay experience between Redfern and Surry Hills, surrounded by dining and entertainment options.

Rydges Port Macquarie completes stylish refurbishment

Following an extensive refurbishment, Rydges Port Macquarie now offers a refreshed stay with upgraded guestrooms and a transformed lobby. The hotel features nine updated room types, catering to solo travellers, families, and corporate guests, alongside seven versatile conference and event spaces, including a stunning waterfront ballroom. With its central location, upgraded amenities, and a heated pool and spa, Rydges provides the perfect balance of business and relaxation on the New South Wales coast.

The Sebel Busselton unveils new $6.1 million refurbishment

Business and leisure travellers visiting The Sebel Busselton can now enjoy a refreshed and modernised stay following a $6.1 million refurbishment. The extensive upgrades include renovated apartments with updated kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces, as well as a transformed reception area and lounge. Guests can also experience a new poolside pizzeria, enhanced in-room amenities like Nespresso machines and smart TVs, and interiors inspired by Busselton’s coastal beauty.

IHG expands portfolio with Ruby brand expansion

IHG Hotels & Resorts has added Ruby to its brand portfolio, marking its 20th global brand and expanding its presence in the modern lifestyle segment. Currently operating 20 hotels across major European cities, Ruby’s space-efficient, design-led concept targets business and leisure travellers seeking premium experiences in key urban destinations. With 10 additional hotels in the pipeline and plans for global expansion, IHG aims to grow Ruby’s footprint beyond Europe into the Americas and Asia.

 

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