Welcome to this week’s Orbit Travel Brief.
Your snapshot of the latest travel advisories, airline updates and key developments across the travel industry, helping you stay informed and in control of your travel programme.
Smartraveller has increased its overall travel advice for Saudi Arabia to Level 4 – Do not travel, due to the volatile security situation in the country and wider region.
Australians are advised to postpone planned travel to Saudi Arabia, including travel for religious purposes. Recent security incidents have disrupted airport operations, with the Houthis threatening to target Saudi airports and airspace.
Air travel remains significantly disrupted at major airports, with the potential for airspace closures, flight cancellations and delays at short notice.
Travellers currently in Saudi Arabia should closely monitor developments and reconfirm flights directly with their airline or travel provider before travelling to an airport. Smartraveller also advises travellers to be prepared to shelter in place at short notice if required.
Demonstrations have been occurring across Mauritius following a police shooting on 9 October, with further protests possible at short notice.
While the government-imposed curfew has ended, demonstrations may disrupt traffic, public transport and access to services.
Smartraveller continues to advise Australians to exercise normal safety precautions in Mauritius. Travellers should avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, monitor local media and allow additional time for journeys if protests occur.
Qantas Business Rewards members can earn double Status Credits on eligible Qantas-operated flights with a QF flight number as part of a limited-time offer.
Status Credits can help business travellers unlock or retain benefits including priority boarding, upgrade priority and lounge access, with no limit on the number of eligible flights that can earn double Status Credits during the promotion.
Businesses must register and book by 20 October 2026, with eligible travel between 21 October 2026 and 2 October 2027.
Businesses that aren’t currently Qantas Business Rewards members can also join for free by 20 October and register for the offer.
Higher fuel and operating costs are beginning to flow through to Australian airfares and airline networks, with Virgin Australia adjusting fares and Rex suspending two regional routes.
Virgin Australia has advised the travel industry that it is making fare adjustments in response to rising fuel costs and broader increases in aviation operating expenses. Pricing and capacity are among the measures being used to manage the impact.
Meanwhile, Rex will suspend its Sydney-Orange and Sydney-Port Macquarie services from 25 October, with high fuel costs cited as one of the contributing factors.
Air New Zealand’s codeshare arrangement with Qantas will end on 7 April 2027, meaning Qantas-operated flights carrying an Air New Zealand flight number will no longer be available to book from that date.
Travel before then is unaffected, while Australian connections will continue to be available through interline arrangements.
Affected bookings for travel on or after 7 April 2027 will need to be reviewed and rebooked. Koru members will continue to earn their original Airpoints and Status Points on affected existing bookings, although reciprocal lounge access will end.
At the same time, Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia are seeking regulatory approval to expand their partnership across a broader portion of their networks.
The proposed strategic alliance would expand codesharing and introduce reciprocal frequent flyer earning, redemptions and status benefits, potentially providing greater connectivity for travellers across Australia, New Zealand and beyond.
The proposal remains subject to regulatory approval, with a draft decision expected in November 2026 and a final ruling due in early 2027.
Delta Air Lines is introducing a series of enhancements for passengers travelling between Australia and the United States, including faster onboard connectivity and a more seamless baggage experience.
The airline is rolling out fast, free Wi-Fi across its trans-Pacific services, allowing eligible SkyMiles members to stream, message and work online during their flight.
Delta is also simplifying connections through Los Angeles for eligible passengers travelling from Sydney. Bags will be screened in Sydney and transferred directly to onward US flights, removing the need for passengers to reclaim and recheck their luggage at LAX.
The airline estimates the new process could save eligible connecting passengers around 25 minutes.
Jetstar will launch a new seasonal non-stop service between Perth and Christchurch from 27 October.
Operating three times weekly using Airbus A321neo LR aircraft, the service will provide additional direct connectivity between Western Australia and New Zealand.
The route creates more choice for both business and leisure travellers while strengthening links between the two regions.
Western Sydney International Airport is continuing preparations for the commencement of commercial services, revealing more of the passenger experience travellers can expect.
The airport’s new Rayleigh Lounge will provide a premium space for eligible international passengers, with capacity for around 80 guests initially and the ability to expand to approximately 130.
The airport will also open with 11 retail stores across a 3,100-square-metre retail precinct, including duty-free shopping, technology, eyewear and travel essentials.
Additional stores and brands are expected to join the precinct as airline services and passenger demand grow.
Albany Airport will undergo a $44.2 million upgrade from late 2026, paving the way for larger aircraft and potentially direct services between Albany and Australia’s east coast.
Works will include runway strengthening and resurfacing, taxiway and apron upgrades, improved airfield lighting and drainage.
The improvements will enable the airport to accommodate aircraft carrying up to 100 passengers, while also supporting FIFO and Royal Flying Doctor Service operations.
Wellington Airport has been ranked equal first globally for sustainability among airports assessed by international ESG benchmarking organisation GRESB.
The airport achieved a score of 100 out of 100 in its Infrastructure Asset Assessment, its highest result to date.
Wellington Airport has reduced gross emissions by 29% since 2017, while Scope 1 and 2 emissions have fallen further when certified renewable energy is included.
Its sustainability initiatives include electrifying its ground fleet, installing solar panels and water recycling infrastructure, as it works towards net-zero emissions from its own direct operations by 2030.
Construction has begun on a new $23 million Airport House development at Queenstown Airport, designed to achieve a minimum 5 Green Star rating.
The two-storey building is expected to become the first Green Star-certified commercial building in the Queenstown Lakes District and will accommodate airport staff, New Zealand Police, partner agencies and airport operations.
The project forms part of Queenstown Airport’s broader focus on sustainability and long-term infrastructure investment.
Orbit clients can access an exclusive 10% discount on Go Insurance travel insurance for their next trip.
For a limited time, Cruise Cover can also be added at no additional cost to eligible policies purchased before 5 November 2026.
Plus, purchase an eligible policy during the promotional period and you’ll go into the draw for your chance to win $1,500 cash.
Plan ahead for 2027 with special Singapore Airlines Earlybird fares to destinations including Singapore, Bangkok, London, Paris, Dubai, New York and more.
Enjoy Economy return fares from $668* and Business Class return fares from $3,776*, with plenty more destinations and fares available.
Sale ends 29 October 2026.
Book an eligible Orbit Plus rate with Pan Pacific Hotels Group and earn double DISCOVERY Dollars (D$) on eligible spend. Available for bookings made by 30 November 2026, for stays through to 28 February 2027.
Find out more and see how to access the offer.
Through By Invitation, Orbit World Travel offers a collection of Hosted Journeys for travellers looking for something beyond the traditional holiday. Each journey brings together thoughtfully planned experiences, carefully selected accommodation and the ease of travelling with a host. Created for intimate groups, many also include experiences you wouldn’t find on a typical itinerary. Discover three of our upcoming journeys:
Whether you’re planning your next trip or reviewing your corporate travel programme, our team is here to help.
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