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.
Travel conditions across parts of the Middle East remain fluid, with airline schedules continuing to adjust in response to evolving conditions. For the latest updates, refer to Smartraveller or the Orbit Travel Hub for airline alerts and official advisories.
Emirates is operating to over 100 destinations globally, with schedules continuing to rebuild across its network.
From Australia, services are strengthening, with daily Brisbane–Dubai flights resuming from 1 May (EK434/EK435), supporting onward connections into Europe, the Middle East and beyond.
Network adjustments remain in place across parts of the region, with some routes reduced or temporarily suspended as conditions evolve.
Qatar Airways will expand to more than 150 destinations from 16 June, with increased frequencies and additional capacity across its global network.
From Australia:
Doha transit update
Hamad International Airport is operating 24/7, with minimum connection times currently set at 60 minutes until 15 June, returning to the standard 45 minutes from 16 June.
Etihad Airways is operating an expanded schedule between Abu Dhabi and around 80 destinations globally, including services from Australia.
The airline is continuing a phased and measured increase in capacity, with schedules being adjusted in line with operating conditions.
Qantas has announced a series of temporary and ongoing domestic route suspensions as it responds to an expected $800 million increase in fuel costs.
The following routes will be impacted:
Jetstar is also adjusting its network:
These changes reflect broader cost pressures across the aviation sector, with airlines actively reviewing route performance and demand.
What this means for your travel programme
Perth Airport is building on strong momentum, with international traffic up 12.5% following a record FY2025.
Recent route developments are driving this growth, including:
The airport is continuing to focus on expanding its global reach, with India identified as its largest unserved direct market. Advances in aircraft technology are expected to make this route more viable in the near future.
A major factor supporting this growth is Perth Airport’s multi-billion dollar ‘One Airport’ transformation, now underway. The long-term redevelopment will strengthen airline partnerships, improve connectivity and position Perth as a key international gateway.
What this means for your travel programme
Two new hotel developments are in planning at Brisbane Airport, aimed at meeting rising demand ahead of the 2032 Olympic Games.
The projects include:
With the airport’s existing hotels already operating at high occupancy, these developments will play a key role in increasing capacity as Brisbane prepares for a significant influx of business and leisure travellers.
Cathay Pacific has released its 2025 Sustainability Report, outlining progress across its decarbonisation and waste reduction initiatives. You can read the full report here
Key developments include:
The airline continues to focus on building a stronger SAF supply chain while reducing waste and reliance on new materials across its operations.
What this means for your travel programme
If you would like support with upcoming travel, or to understand how these updates may impact your plans, our team is here to help.
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