Corporate Travel News: October 2025

Virgin Australia is considering a “neighbour-free” option, allowing passengers to pay to keep the seat next to them empty, similar to Qantas’ offering, with fees varying by flight length. The spare seat wouldn’t be guaranteed if the flight nears capacity, in which case the cost would be refunded. The airline is also exploring other ancillary revenue streams, including pet-friendly flights starting by December and additional economy seating on Boeing 737s.

Virgin Australia introduces new Velocity Platinum Plus tier

Virgin Australia has launched Velocity Platinum Plus, a new top tier above Platinum. Benefits include four annual business class upgrades, priority for points upgrades, access to Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounges, Fly Later rebooking, complimentary Platinum status, extra checked baggage allowance, and boosted points with partners. To qualify, members must earn 2,000 Status Credits per year, equivalent to approximately $24,000 in spend under Velocity’s system.

Fast-Track US airport security now available

Clear+ now allows Australians, New Zealanders, UK, and Canadian passport holders to skip long TSA lines at over 50 US airports using biometric verification. It also offers expedited entry at select stadiums and is expanding automated eGates ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Clear+ costs US$209 per year and focuses on pre-departure screening, while programs like Global Entry and Mobile Passport Control assist with arrival. Mobile Passport Control remains a free and easy option for Australians at major U.S. airports.

EU Entry/Exit System (EES)

The EU has rolled out its new EES for Australian and other non-EU travellers, replacing manual passport stamping and enforcing the 90/180-day rule. First-time visitors provide passport details, facial images, and fingerprints, while returning travellers are recognised automatically. Australians can use the Travel to Europe app to pre-register and help speed up border checks. A full rollout is expected by 9 April 2026, so additional time at EU borders may still be required.

U.S. to increase ESTA fee by $19

The U.S. has updated its ESTA fee to $40, effective 30 September 2025, for travellers from visa waiver countries, including the U.K. and EU members. Approvals remain valid for two years, providing flexibility for future trips. This update aligns with similar improvements in the U.K. and EU, which launched new biometric border checks (EES) on 12 October 2025, enhancing security and streamlining entry processes for all travellers.

Qantas upgrades premium economy on A350-1000

Qantas is overhauling its cabin experience with new seats across all classes, including third-generation premium economy on its Airbus A350-1000 jets launching late 2026. The updated premium economy seats feature increased legroom, body-cradling design, adjustable winged headrests for privacy, conventional calf- and footrests, 4K screens with Bluetooth audio, USB-C charging, and a lighter, calmer cabin aesthetic. These improvements aim to enhance comfort on ultra-long-haul flights to London and New York, while maintaining consistency with the design language of First and Business Class.

United simplifies baggage transfer for SYD-SFO flights

Frequent flyers to the US are familiar with the hassle of collecting and re-checking luggage after clearing customs. United Airlines passengers from Sydney to San Francisco with onward connections can now skip that step. Under a new US Customs and Border Protection pilot program, bags will be checked through to the final destination, saving travellers up to 45 minutes and easing the stress of transit.

Qantas launches A321XLR with upgraded cabins

Qantas introduced its first Airbus A321XLR flights on 25 September, operating between Sydney and Perth and Sydney and Melbourne. The aircraft offer wider seats, larger windows, bigger overhead bins, and fast Wi-Fi, replacing the airline’s Boeing 737s. By mid-2026, seven A321XLRs are set to be in service, eventually growing to 48, with 16 featuring lie-flat business class seats for longer domestic and short-haul international routes.

Virgin Australia introduces first E190-E2 jet in Perth

Virgin Australia Regional Airlines (VARA) has welcomed its first E190-E2 jet in Perth, arriving from Embraer’s Brazil factory after a 25,000 km journey. Named Coral Bay, the aircraft will primarily operate charter flights across Western Australia, featuring a dual-class layout that enables commercial services on quieter routes. The E190-E2 is more fuel-efficient, quieter, and future-ready, certified for up to 50% sustainable aviation fuel and capable of 100% SAF.

Qantas A220 to debut on Brisbane to Wellington route

Qantas’ Airbus A220 will make its international debut on Brisbane to Wellington from 8 February 2026, operating up to three flights per week. The A220 offers 10 business class and 127 economy seats with a modern cabin, larger windows, and fast, free Wi-Fi. Flights depart Brisbane at 8:50am, arriving in Wellington at 3:20pm, with return departures at 4:20pm, landing in Brisbane at 5:15pm.

Sydney airport launches luxury digital concierge

Sydney Airport has launched its Luxury Digital Concierge, a new online service at the T1 International terminal, which allows travellers to connect directly with global luxury brands before they fly. Accessible via the airport’s website, passengers can chat with store teams, check availability, and reserve products for tax-free shopping with ease and certainty. Featuring brands such as Dior, Prada, Burberry and Tiffany & Co, the service offers a personalised, omnichannel retail experience supported through WhatsApp or WeChat.

Qantas pushes Sydney business lounge upgrade to 2027

Qantas has confirmed its Sydney International Business Lounge will receive a significant overhaul in 2027, promising a fresh, modern design and a new signature dining experience. The redesign, led by David Caon and Bates Smart, will add 40% more seating and deliver an actual flagship lounge experience. While the upgrade comes later than initially planned due to investment priorities in new aircraft and fleet refits, Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson said it will be “an amazing flagship lounge.”

Qatar Airways A350s set for major cabin upgrades

The Airbus A350, first delivered to Qatar Airways just over a decade ago, has become a global bestseller with around 660 in service. Many are now due for mid-life cabin upgrades, typically after eight years of service. These refits focus on adding business class suites with sliding privacy doors and expanding premium economy cabins. By 2030, over 460 A350s will hit the retrofit stage.

Qantas and Malaysia airlines expand Kuala Lumpur codeshare

Qantas and Malaysia Airlines have launched a new codeshare partnership, offering direct flights from five Australian cities to Kuala Lumpur from 26 October 2025. The agreement boosts connectivity to Malaysia’s domestic destinations, restores links between Singapore and KL, and extends access to Qantas’ domestic network for Malaysian travellers. Frequent Flyers will also benefit from more points and Status Credits on eligible flights. The move comes amid record Australian visitation to Malaysia and Malaysia Airlines’ expanded post-pandemic services, including the return of Brisbane and Adelaide routes.

Emirates unveils plans for new long-haul economy seat

Emirates is developing an innovative new economy class seat, which President Sir Tim Clark describes as a potential “game-changer” for long-haul travel. Designed to address common discomforts associated with 16–17-hour flights, the seat utilises advanced technology and intelligent geometry to enhance passenger comfort. While still in the prototype phase, the team is exploring ways to provide better support for the body, feet, and legs, with taller seating rather than simply more expansive or more legroom. If successful, this new design could set a new benchmark for economy travel, building on Emirates’ reputation for premium in-flight experiences.

Singapore Airlines to launch new business class suites in 2026

Singapore Airlines is set to elevate its business class experience from early 2026, with new enclosed suites debuting across its Airbus A350 fleet as part of an SGD $1.1 billion upgrade. Alongside the refreshed cabins, the airline is expected to introduce pyjamas for business-class travellers on medium- and long-haul routes, a perk currently reserved for first-class travellers. Another luxury addition will be caviar, with Singapore Airlines seeking suppliers to serve sustainably farmed roe in business class, following the lead of competitors such as Qatar Airways.

Air New Zealand opens state-of-the-art hangar 4 in Auckland

Air New Zealand has opened Hangar 4 at its Auckland base, a 10,000-square-metre facility capable of housing a 787-9 Dreamliner and two A320/A321 Aircraft. The hangar, one of the airline’s most significant infrastructure investments, features sustainable timber construction, an ETFE roof for natural light, and aims for a 6 Green Star rating. Designed for the next 50 years, it boosts maintenance capacity, supports skilled jobs, and reflects Air New Zealand’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Taiwan requires digital arrival card

As of 1 October, Taiwan now requires all visitors, including Australians travelling for business or leisure, to complete a Taiwan Arrival Card (TWAC) within 72 hours before landing. The digital form, which is free and easy to complete, collects passport, contact, flight, and accommodation details, and can even be submitted on arrival using airport Wi-Fi and devices. While paper cards remain available for exceptional cases, Taiwan’s National Immigration Agency is phasing them out to streamline the entry process.

Emirates’ new rules for in-flight power bank use now in place

Emirates has now banned the use of power banks and battery packs in-flight. Passengers may carry one power bank with a capacity of up to 100Wh, but it must be stored in the seat pocket or under the seat, not in the overhead bin, and cannot be used or recharged during the flight. The change follows a safety review addressing the growing use of lithium battery packs and the risks they pose if they malfunction.

Virgin Australia to trial “pets in cabin” service from October

Virgin Australia will launch its new “Pets in Cabin” service on 16 October, allowing small dogs and cats to travel with owners on select Melbourne–Sunshine Coast and Melbourne–Gold Coast flights. The trial will run until January 2026, with a broader domestic rollout planned for next year. Pets must remain in an approved carrier under the seat. The booking cost is $149 per animal, per flight, and only four designated economy window seats per flight will be available for pets.

British Airways upgrades world traveller plus on 787-9

British Airways is introducing refreshed World Traveller Plus (premium economy) seats on its refurbished Boeing 787-9 fleet, featuring privacy wings, leather headrests, deeper side pockets, and USB-C power outlets, while screens remain unchanged. This update is part of BA’s £7bn transformation programme, which also includes new First-Class suites on the A380 from 2026 and future Boeing 777 9 jets, with A380 suites reduced from 14 to 12 and offering personal wardrobes for easier in-flight storage.

Qatar Airways resumes flights to Canberra

Qatar Airways will return to Canberra in December 2025, connecting the capital to Doha via Melbourne as part of its expanded global network. The daily Canberra-Melbourne-Doha flights, replacing the former Adelaide-Melbourne-Doha route, will use Boeing 777s with Qsuites and Starlink WiFi. Early Bird fares are available until 31 October 2025, with Business Class fares starting from $7,759 return.

Jetstar begins Newcastle–Hobart seasonal service

Jetstar will commence seasonal flights between Newcastle and Hobart on 2 December 2025, operating three times a week until 30 April 2026. Supported by the Minns Labour Government Aviation Attraction Fund, the route boosts tourism, business, and jobs in the Hunter region while providing Tasmanians direct access to NSW’s second-largest city. The launch coincides with Newcastle Airport’s new international terminal and the broader Visitor Economy Strategy 2035, which aims to increase aviation capacity, visitor expenditure, and employment.

Qantas unveils new uniform by designer Rebecca Vallance

Qantas has appointed Australian designer Rebecca Vallance to create its next uniform, the airline’s first major redesign in over a decade. The new look, shaped by feedback from 17,500 staff, will launch in 2027 as part of Qantas’ broader transformation and fleet renewal. Vallance says her vision will strike a balance between modern sophistication and wearability, marking a milestone for both her career and the national carrier.

Emirates Skywards adds premium economy miles redemption

Emirates Skywards members can now redeem miles for premium economy flights or upgrades, starting at 15,000 Miles for a one-way reward or 7,020 Miles for an upgrade. Premium Economy, available on A380, 777, and A350 aircraft, offers a seat pitch of up to 40 inches, larger screens, and business-class-style meals. Redemption is initially exclusive to Skywards members, with plans to extend to partner airlines later. Premium economy now serves 66 destinations, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide.

Qantas to close Melbourne first class lounge for maintenance

The Qantas First Lounge at Melbourne T2 will close for maintenance till the 3 November 2025. Platinum and Platinum One members, Oneworld Emerald flyers, First Class passengers, and Chairman’s Lounge members can access a premium section in the Business Lounge, featuring signature First Lounge dishes. The Emirates Lounge is another option, although its opening hours are limited and align with Emirates departures at 6:15 am, 10:15 pm, and 11:55 pm. Melbourne’s complete Business Lounge upgrade is expected around 2028, after new lounges open in Auckland (2026) and Sydney (FY2027).

Air New Zealand to Use Wamos Air A330-300

Air New Zealand will utilise Wamos Air to operate select Auckland flights to Samoa, Fiji, Tahiti, Tokyo, and Bali from 30 October 2025 to 30 April 2026, helping to manage summer and Easter demand amid engine supply challenges. The Airbus A330-300 offers a three-class layout similar to Air New Zealand’s 787-9. The airline is also gradually restoring capacity with modernised 787-9s, new 787-9s with GE engines, A321neos, ATR72-600s, and future 787-10s.

Qatar Airways and China Southern expand Doha–Beijing flights

Qatar Airways and China Southern Airlines are expanding their codeshare partnership with new direct flights between Doha and Beijing Daxing, starting from 16 October 2025, timed to coincide with China’s Golden Week. The agreement adds codeshares on 15 destinations across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, while extending China Southern’s reach via Doha to over 170 global routes. Together with Xiamen Airlines, the carriers will offer 64 weekly flights across eight Chinese gateways, one of the region’s most extensive networks, and will continue strengthening cooperation in cargo and loyalty programs.

Hotels Hannah St. Hotel set to open in Melbourne this summer

Opening this summer, Hannah St. Hotel is a $150 million boutique property in Melbourne’s Southbank, developed as part of the Queensbridge precinct. Designed by award-winning Flack Studio, the 188-room hotel blends art, architecture, and “modern nostalgia” to reflect the city’s cultural energy. Anchored by The Clubhouse, a lifestyle hub featuring a pool, wellness spaces, co-working areas, dining options, and event venues, the hotel aims to be a social and cultural gathering place for both guests and the neighbourhood alike.

Crowne Plaza Hobart opens centurion sky event space

Crowne Plaza Hobart has unveiled Centurion Sky, a new indoor-outdoor events space with a glass ceiling, retractable doors, and panoramic views of Mount Wellington/Kunanyi. Launched on August 28 with a VIP showcase, the venue expands the hotel’s meetings and events offering to eight spaces, catering to everything from intimate gatherings to large celebrations.

IHG launches annual stay for good campaign to support Ozharvest and Kiwiharvest

IHG Hotels & Resorts ran its fourth annual Stay for Good campaign throughout September, donating $1 from every stay at 47 participating hotels in Australia and New Zealand to OzHarvest and KiwiHarvest. Each dollar funded two meals, reduced food waste, and helped prevent food from going to landfill. The campaign came amid record food insecurity, with 77% of charities reporting increased demand and 50,000 people turned away from food relief each month.

Gold Coast showcases top luxury hotels

The Gold Coast offers a range of luxury hotels, including the family-friendly JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, which features spacious rooms, lagoon pools, waterslides, and kids’ activities, making it perfect for an elevated escape. QT Gold Coast stands out for its vibrant, retro-inspired rooms, top-notch dining options, and SpaQ treatments, offering a more personality-rich, stylish experience. Both showcase the Gold Coast’s blend of indulgent amenities and lively beachfront locations.

JW Marriott Gold Coast opens lagoon gallery event space

JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort and Spa has opened the Lagoon Gallery, a new 665-square-metre event venue overlooking its lagoon pool. Featuring floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening onto an outdoor terrace, the space is designed for events ranging from weddings to significant product launches, with modern facilities, dedicated catering, and LED lighting for themed experiences. The Lagoon Gallery reflects JW Marriott’s philosophy of “all is well” and celebrates a love of the outdoors.

Crown Perth opens Gladstones premium wine bar

Crown Perth is opening a new premium wine bar, Gladstones, honouring Dr John Gladstones AO, whose research established Margaret River as a world-class wine region. Seating around 50 guests between Crown Towers and Crown Metropol, the intimate venue will showcase WA’s award-winning wines alongside global vintages, with exclusive drops available by the glass.

Accor Plus launches ALL Accor+ explorer global subscription

Accor Plus launches ALL Accor+ Explorer, a premium global subscription offering travellers enhanced benefits and unique experiences across 4,500+ Accor hotels. Members receive instant ALL Accor Gold status, two complimentary nights annually, up to 50% off stays in Asia Pacific, 15% off rates worldwide, and dining discounts at 1,600+ restaurants. The program also provides curated experiences, exclusive events, and seamless integration with the ALL Accor loyalty platform.

QT Hotels & Resorts wins at Australia’s wine list awards

QT Hotels & Resorts celebrates excellence at Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards. The design-led hotel group earned a total of 20 glasses across its venues, highlighting outstanding wine lists and service. Signature locations like QT Sydney’s Gowings, QT Perth’s Santini Bar & Grill, QT Gold Coast’s Yamagen, and QT Canberra’s Capitol Bar & Grill retained top three-glass ratings, with several venues recognised for multiple consecutive years. QT Melbourne’s Pascale Bar & Grill earned two glasses for the sixth year running.

MGallery debuts Brighton Hotel Sydney after major revamp

The former Novotel Sydney Brighton Beach has been transformed into The Brighton Hotel Sydney – MGallery Collection following a multi-million-dollar renovation. The 307-room beachfront property now features two ballrooms, 11 event spaces, indoor and outdoor pools, a Mediterranean restaurant that celebrates local Greek-Australian culture, and two bars, with additional hospitality offerings planned.

Hilton marks one year of partnership with small Luxury Hotels

In just one year, Hilton’s partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) has added over 450 boutique properties, expanding Hilton’s luxury portfolio into 12 new countries, including Cambodia, Andorra, and Slovenia. The collaboration has boosted bookings for SLH hotels, while Hilton Honours members gain access to unique stays and new opportunities to earn and redeem points.

Marriott Bonvoy offers VIP experiences at Gold Coast 500

Marriott Bonvoy returns to the Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500 from 24–26 October 2025, offering members the exclusive lounge with trackside views, premium hospitality, and a stylish space to enjoy the race. Marriott will also be part of Party Under the Palms and showcase Supercars at its Gold Coast resorts.

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