Welcome to this week’s Orbit Travel Brief.
Your weekly snapshot of key travel updates, advisories and insights.
From evolving global conditions to airline and airport changes, here’s what to be aware of in the week ahead.
If you have any questions, our team is here to help.
Australian embassies and consulates in Israel and the UAE remain closed, with others in the region operating reduced or variable hours due to ongoing security concerns. Opening hours may change at short notice.
For emergency consular assistance:
+61 2 6261 3305 (from overseas)
1300 555 135 (within Australia)
For the latest updates, refer to Smartraveller: Middle East Conflict
You can also visit the Orbit Travel Hub, for a central source of airline alerts, official advisories and guidance.
Virgin Australia (operated by Qatar Airways)
Services between Australia and Doha (VA1–VA22) remain cancelled up to and including at least 15 June 2026.
Affected travellers are being contacted directly, with alternative arrangements provided where possible.
Qatar Airways is progressively reinstating services to and from Doha via approved flight corridors, in coordination with the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority.
Singapore Airlines has updated its power bank policy in line with ICAO and CAAS guidelines, effective 15 April 2026.
Passengers may carry a maximum of two power banks:
All power banks must be carried in cabin baggage only and stored under the seat or in the seat-back pocket. The use of power banks onboard is not permitted under the updated guidelines.
Malaysia Airlines has introduced extra services between Kuala Lumpur and London across April, supporting increased travel demand and improving connectivity between Malaysia and the UK.
Additional services have been introduced between Perth and Johannesburg across April and early May 2026, including a Friday departure from Johannesburg and Saturday return from Perth, offering a convenient weekend travel option.
Etihad has expanded its Global Chauffeur service to the following locations for new bookings made on or after 26 March 2026:
British Airways has confirmed that voice and video calls are now permitted on selected aircraft equipped with Starlink wi-fi.
Passengers are asked to be mindful of others and keep conversations at a low volume.
Adelaide Airport now offers a dedicated Sensory Room, providing a calm and quiet space for travellers with autism or hidden disabilities.
Designed as a low-stimulation environment, the space allows passengers to step away from the busy terminal before boarding.
The room is located on Level 2, between the Virgin Australia Lounge and Airport Pharmacy, and is free to use. Family members, carers and support persons are welcome.
Book here: https://adelaideairport.com.au/accessibility/sensory-room/
Outdoor retailer 4WD Supacentre will relocate its operations to Brisbane Airport, marking the completion of Stage One of the Airport Industrial Park.
The new purpose-built facility will span 20,000m² on a 47,071m² site, with construction commencing in May.
The development is targeting 5 Star Green Star alignment, incorporating sustainable design elements including solar energy, rainwater harvesting and natural lighting.
Brisbane Airport is now home to the largest commercial rooftop solar system in the southern hemisphere.
Recent expansion across the International Terminal and P2X car park has added more than 7,000 panels, further strengthening the airport’s renewable energy capabilities.
Battery storage systems are also being introduced, allowing solar energy to be stored and used during peak demand periods.
If you would like support with upcoming travel, or to understand how these updates may impact your plans, our team is here to help.
1800 067 819 | cl************@*********el.au
