Corporate Travel News: July 2025

Qantas has received its first Airbus A321XLR, Great Ocean Road (VH-OGA), which arrived in Sydney on 2 July after a record-breaking 42-hour journey. The new aircraft offers better range, fuel efficiency, more space, and improved comfort. Starting mid-2025, it will fly domestic routes, but Qantas is exploring lie-flat seats for longer international flights. The A321XLR could soon open direct routes from cities like Adelaide and Perth to destinations such as Singapore and India.

Air New Zealand trials free high-speed Wi-Fi on domestic flights

Air New Zealand has begun testing high-speed Wi-Fi using Starlink on two domestic aircrafts; an Airbus A320 and soon an ATR turboprop. The trial gives passengers free, fast internet with low latency, making it easy to stream, work, or browse just like they would at home. In a world-first, the airline is also testing Wi-Fi on a turboprop, aiming to improve connectivity on regional routes. Passenger feedback during the trial will help shape the future of inflight internet across the fleet, as Air New Zealand looks to offer a more connected and customer-friendly travel experience.

Virgin Australia shines with top awards at Skytrax

On 17 June 2025, Virgin Australia took home two big wins at the Skytrax World Airline Awards in Paris winning Best Airline Staff Service and Best Regional Airline for Australia/Pacific. Virgin’s long-haul partner, Qatar Airways, was also named World’s Best Airline. Earlier this year, Virgin also earned top honours for World’s Best Cabin Crew and Best Regional Airline for its subsidiary VARA, showing the airline’s commitment to great service across the board.

Air New Zealand upsizes flights for winter demand

Between 28 June and 25 October, Air New Zealand is boosting capacity with over 36,000 extra seats by using larger A321 aircraft on busy routes. The move follows the launch of its new jet service between Hamilton and Christchurch. Over 600 flights will be upgraded from A320s to A321neos, along with 37 additional services. Chief Commercial Officer Jeremy O’Brien says the extra seats will give travellers more travel options for university breaks, events, and ski trips, while also supporting regional tourism. Auckland–Dunedin flights will see a lift, timed around high student travel periods and major events like the All-Blacks test on 5 July and Big Sing in August.

Qantas rolls out new economy seats

As of 2 July, Qantas has begun upgrading its fleet with new economy seats, beginning with the first Airbus A321XLR. Over 10,000 seats will be installed on domestic and short-haul planes, including more than half the Boeing 737s from late 2026. The seats have extra cushioning, adjustable headrests, and dual USB ports powerful enough for laptops. Instead of seatback screens, passengers will stream entertainment via onboard Wi-Fi to their own devices using a fold-out holder. Removing screens cuts weight saving about 160kg per flight and boosts fuel efficiency. The same seats will appear on QantasLink A220s and long-haul A350s (with larger screens) from 2027.

Virgin Australia lists on ASX as of June 2025

As of 24 June, Virgin Australia has gone public, with the aim of raising $685 million through a share offer that values the airline at $2.3 billion. The airline is Australia’s second largest airline group, carrying and delivering value to 20 million passengers a year across 76 domestic and short-haul routes as well as its launch to have long-haul flights to Doha.

Qatar Airways roll out free high-speed Wi-Fi on 777s

Qatar Airways now offers free, high-speed Wi-Fi powered by Starlink on all its Boeing 777s, with A350s and 787s next in line. Passengers can expect fast, low-lag internet ideal for streaming, video calls, and browsing. There’s no login or data limit, passengers only need to connect to the OryxComms network on any device. The service runs on Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellites, offering better speed and less delay than traditional systems.

Air New Zealand boosts Trans-Tasman and Pacific capacity

Between October 2025 and March 2026, Air New Zealand will offer 1.7 million seats across Australia and New Zealand, adding 130,000 more with more flights and widebody planes to meet premium demand. They’re also adding 25,000 seats to Pacific routes and boosting premium seating by 8%. New flights include more services on key Australian routes and a Christchurch–Adelaide link launching later this year.

Air New Zealand and Air China team up to boost Chinese tourism

Air New Zealand, Air China, and Tourism New Zealand are joining forces with nearly 500,000 NZD investment to attract more Chinese visitors. Air New Zealand will also add over $700,000 in marketing over the next year. China is New Zealand’s third-largest source of tourists, with travel up 18% as of March 2025 from the year prior. The partnership aims to promote New Zealand and strengthen ties between the airlines, supporting tourism recovery and economic growth.

Air New Zealand adds more seats to North America and Asia

Air New Zealand is ramping up long-haul capacity with over 34,000 extra seats to North America and 20,500 more premium seats across its network. By the end of the year, up to seven refreshed 787 Dreamliners will be flying, offering updated cabins and added comfort. Seats to the U.S. and Canada will increase by 8%, with a 15% boost in premium options responding to growing demand for more space and service. Key routes such as Los Angeles, Houston, Vancouver, and San Francisco are getting upgrades, along with premium expansions to Taipei, Bali, Hong Kong, and Shanghai.

Jetstar to upgrade 787s for longer international flights

Starting January 2026, Jetstar will modernise its Boeing 787s with new business class recliners, expanding seats from 21 to 44. Economy will get ergonomic seats with USB ports, and inflight Wi-Fi will be introduced for the first time. Passengers will also be able to use Qantas Points to upgrade to business class. New crew rest bunk beds mean Jetstar can operate longer routes, with possible destinations including the USA, India, Sri Lanka, and South Africa.

Qantas to wind down Jetstar Asia by July 2025

Qantas will close its Singapore-based low-cost carrier, Jetstar Asia, by 29 July 2025 due to rising costs and tough competition. This will free up $500 million to help fund its fleet renewal, including nearly 200 new planes. The thirteen A320s will be moved back to Australia and New Zealand, boosting domestic flights and creating over 100 jobs. Only 16 intra-Asia routes will be affected, with no changes to Jetstar’s services from Australia or Japan. Though the closure will cost about $175 million, Qantas expects long-term benefits by focusing on stronger markets.

Air New Zealand to launch Western Sydney–Auckland flights in 2027

Air New Zealand will kick off flights between Western Sydney and Auckland from mid-2027, tapping into strong Kiwi demand. Over 430,000 New Zealanders visited NSW last year, making it NZ’s top overseas destination in 2024. This will be the first route backed by NSW’s $16 million Take-Off Fund, aimed at boosting tourism and adding millions of seats. The new service will complement Air New Zealand’s current Sydney flights while linking New Zealand with Australia’s rapidly growing Western Sydney region. The airport, set to operate 24/7, recently completed major runway works, with Singapore Airlines starting service in August 2024.

Adelaide takes off: new routes and aircraft boost global connections

Adelaide is making big moves on the international travel scene, with more airlines adding routes and upgrading their fleets. From 1 December 2025, Emirates will launch its new Airbus A350-900ULR to Dubai, bringing upgraded comfort and premium economy to the route. New flights to San Francisco, Hong Kong, Auckland, and Christchurch are also taking off, with Tokyo and New Delhi on the radar. Qantas is returning to Auckland and introducing its latest A321XLR, marking Adelaide’s growing role on the global stage.

Emirates working on “Game-Changer” economy seat

Emirates is designing a new economy seat that President Sir Tim Clark calls a potential “game-changer” for long-haul comfort. A prototype exists, but certification is tough due to safety and manufacturing limits. Instead of wider or roomier seats, Emirates is focusing on taller designs to boost comfort, support, and leg position using advanced geometry and tech. Details are still under wraps, but Clark is optimistic about moving forward despite challenges.

Escape lounges open its first spot in Australia at Brisbane airport

Escape Lounges has landed in Australia and the Southern Hemisphere for the first time, opening a new lounge at Brisbane International Airport Terminal. Upstairs on the mezzanine level, it offers runway views, comfortable seating areas, and a top-notch experience featuring local food, drinks, and barista-made coffee. The lounge is open to all travellers for a fee and is a fresh highlight in Brisbane Airport.

Air New Zealand’s flight experience for neurodivergent kids

Air New Zealand partnered with Autism New Zealand and Acorn Neurodiversity to create a special flight experience for neurodivergent kids and their families. On 7 June, at the airline’s training centre, the kids got to walk through the whole travel process from check-in and security to boarding

and in-flight routines in a supportive space. The goal was to help these young travellers feel more comfortable and give their families peace of mind. Run by Air New Zealand’s Enable Network; the event shows the airline’s commitment to making flying easier and more welcoming for everyone. All involved described the initiative as a meaningful step toward breaking down barriers and making travel more inclusive.

Virgin Australia to let pets fly in cabin by end of 2025

Virgin Australia plans to let cats and dogs travel with their owners in the cabin on select domestic flights by the end of 2025. The rollout, first announced in March 2024, was delayed due to regulatory approvals around safety and health. CEO Dave Emerson says final approval is close, with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority signing off on the rules. A Pet Travel Guide is also being created to help passengers get ready for flying with their furry friends.

Hotels Reliable comfort at Oaks Lake Crackenback and Melbourne Flemington

Oaks Lake Crackenback Resort is a premium new addition to the Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites portfolio, offering a year-round alpine escape just 15 minutes from Thredbo and Perisher. Nestled on the edge of Kosciuszko National Park, the resort features stylish studios, apartments, and chalets with access to on-site dining, a day spa, indoor pool, sauna, gym, and a wide range of outdoor activities. This expansion complements Oaks Melbourne Flemington Suites, ideally located near Melbourne Zoo, Royal Park, and the University of Melbourne. Perfect for families, it offers spacious 1- and 2-bedroom apartments with full kitchens, Wi-Fi, a gym, sauna, Sky Garden BBQ area, and conference facilities all just 15km from the airport.

Novotel Sydney Cabramatta now taking bookings

Novotel Sydney Cabramatta, Western Sydney’s newest hotel, opens this November and is now taking bookings. The 140-room hotel is part of the Cabra-Vale Diggers makeover and offers a resort-style pool, gym, and great dining. Perfect for business, getaways, or events, it features one of the region’s largest event spaces. As part of Accor, guests can also enjoy benefits through the Accor Live Limitless (ALL) loyalty program.

Marriott’s luxury dining series returns in 2025

The Luxury Dining Series by Marriott International is making a return this July through September across Asia Pacific. Guests will get to experience incredible chefs and mixologists from amazing hotels like The Ritz-Carlton Perth, St. Regis Osaka, and JW Marriott Jeju. Think tasting menus that take guests on a journey, elegant high teas, exciting cocktail takeovers, and dishes that tell a story with every bite. Plus, Marriott Bonvoy members can even bid for exclusive events through the Bonvoy Moments program, making their dining experience unforgettable.

QT Queenstown set for major makeover

Big things are happening at QT Queenstown’s lakefront hotel! Following the recent makeover of the nearby Rydges, QT is set to expand to 221 stylish rooms with private balconies offering breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu. The refreshed hotel will open in stages throughout 2026, wrapping up by mid-2027. Along with the extra rooms, guests can look forward to modern conference spaces, upgraded dining spots, a brand-new gym and pool, plus facilities perfect for adventure seekers.

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