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.
The European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) is currently causing significant delays at some European airports, with reports of processing times of up to 4 to 6 hours. In some cases, travellers have missed onward flights as a result.
If you’re travelling to Europe, we recommend:
• Allowing extra time between connecting flights
• Choosing flexible flight options where possible
• Arriving at the airport well ahead of departure
• Being prepared for long queues at EES kiosks
Some countries may allow travellers to submit initial details via an EES mobile app, however delays should still be expected while the system is rolled out. Find out more at Smartraveller
Exclusive to the CT Partners network, that’s us!) Qantas Business Rewards is giving eligible businesses the chance to WIN a share of 500,000 Qantas Points, plus Gold Frequent Flyer status.
Alongside the major prize draw, registered businesses can also access a bonus offer:
🔸 Save up to 15% off the base fare (excluding taxes, fees and carrier charges) on eligible domestic Qantas flights booked through CT Partners between 1 and 5 June 2026.
Every eligible booking also counts as one entry into the major prize draw.
Qantas is expanding its trans-Tasman network with new direct flights between the Gold Coast and Auckland.
The service provides another convenient option for travel between Australia and New Zealand, offering direct access between the two destinations without the need to connect via Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne.
American Airlines will roll out Starlink high-speed internet across more than 500 narrowbody aircraft from early 2027.
The upgrade will support streaming, online gaming and virtual meetings across the airline’s domestic and short-haul international network. American joins a growing list of global carriers adopting Starlink technology, including Singapore Airlines, British Airways and Lufthansa.
British Airways will return to Melbourne from January 2027, marking its first Victorian service in more than two decades.
Operating via Kuala Lumpur, the route will provide travellers with access to British Airways’ extensive network through London Heathrow, including connections to more than 100 destinations across Europe.
Philippine Airlines and Qantas have expanded their frequent flyer partnership, allowing members to redeem points across both networks.
The enhancement gives Qantas Frequent Flyers access to more than 40 Philippine Airlines destinations, including 15 new destinations throughout the Philippines such as Boracay, Cebu and Palawan.
Travellers arriving into Melbourne on selected Qantas flights can now complete their Incoming Passenger Card digitally through the Qantas app before travelling.
The trial is currently available on services from Auckland and Queenstown, with additional international routes expected to be added in the coming weeks. Passengers can submit their details up to 72 hours before departure.
The initiative is being delivered in partnership with the Australian Government, Australian Border Force and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
Hobart Airport has opened new departure gates as part of its $200 million terminal redevelopment.
The project will ultimately double the size of the terminal, creating more space for travellers and expanding food, beverage and retail offerings. Construction will continue throughout 2026, with the current departures area set to temporarily close from next month.
Adelaide Airport has reported its busiest April on record, welcoming more than 791,000 passengers through the terminal, up 4 per cent year-on-year.
Growth has been supported by several new international routes introduced over the past year, including services to San Francisco, Auckland and Christchurch.
Adding to the milestone month, Adelaide was also recognised as the Best Airport in Asia for Excellence in Airport and Destination Marketing at an international aviation conference in China.
Qantas has unveiled a new Airbus A321XLR featuring a special Great Barrier Reef-inspired livery, highlighting the airline’s partnership with the Great Barrier Reef Foundation.
Named Coral Sea, the aircraft forms part of Qantas’ Reef Restoration Fund, which will invest $10 million over 10 years to support projects focused on protecting and restoring coral reef ecosystems across Australia.
Intrepid Travel has launched its June Sale, offering savings of up to 20% on selected departures worldwide through to 31 August 2027.
Additional savings of up to 30% are also available on selected 2026 departures across a range of cultural, active and wildlife-focused journeys.
Speak with our Travel Advisors for more information today. 1300 799 629
If you would like support with upcoming travel, or to understand how these updates may impact your travel programme, our team is here to help.
1800 067 819
