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.
Venezuela has declared a state of emergency after two major earthquakes and several aftershocks occurred across the country. There are reports of widespread damage to infrastructure and casualties, including in Caracas. Airports may be closed and flights could be suspended.
Australia does not have an embassy or consulate in Venezuela, meaning the Australian Government’s ability to provide consular assistance is severely limited. If you require urgent consular assistance, call the Consular Emergency Centre in Australia on +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas or 1300 555 135 in Australia.
Orbit World Travel continues to monitor the situation closely, supporting clients with real-time travel intelligence, itinerary management and 24/7 assistance to help travellers make informed decisions.
If you have upcoming travel to or through the region, speak with your Orbit Travel Advisor.
Qantas Business Rewards members can now save up to 15% off the base fare on eligible domestic flights and up to 10% off the base fare on eligible international flights booked between 29 June and 6 July 2026.
The offer applies to selected destinations across New Zealand, Japan, Hong Kong, Indonesia, the Philippines, South Africa, Chile, the Pacific Islands and the United States, with travel available across multiple periods through to 17 June 2027 for domestic flights.
Available exclusively to Qantas Business Rewards members. Terms and conditions apply.
This month, Orbit launched an exclusive client incentive offering the chance to win a share of 500,000 Qantas Points and Gold Frequent Flyer status.
As an added bonus, Qantas Business Rewards members can now earn Triple Qantas Points on eligible Qantas flights booked through Orbit World Travel (AU) by 30 June 2026.
Exclusive to customers across the CT Partners network. T&Cs apply.
Emirates is offering eligible customers a complimentary stay at the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai when booking flights via Dubai between 22 June and 12 July 2026 for travel through 30 September 2026.
Economy and Premium Economy travellers receive one complimentary night, while Business and First Class customers enjoy two complimentary nights, plus My Emirates Pass benefits.
Jetstar will resume Christchurch-Sydney services from 26 October 2026, operating four flights per week and strengthening trans-Tasman connectivity. Departing Christchurch at 09:10 and arriving in Sydney at 10:40, with return services departing Sydney at 12:30 and arriving in Christchurch at 17:40.
The airline will also launch Christchurch-Perth services, increase Auckland-Melbourne frequencies and adjust Hamilton-Sydney schedules to improve onward international connections.
Auckland-Sunshine Coast and Christchurch-Cairns services will cease from 24 October, with affected customers offered alternative travel arrangements.
Qantas has increased services between Melbourne and Tokyo and added more seats across the Tasman as Japan and New Zealand continue to be popular destinations for Australian travellers. More than 45,000 seats will be added to Tokyo and Queenstown by early next year.
Qantas has increased its Melbourne – Narita services from daily to 11 flights per week from December 2026 to March 2027 in response to growing demand. The new flights will add a total of 30,000 seats to the route.
Demand for Japan continues to grow, with passenger numbers increasing 8 per cent between October 2025 and March 2026 to more than 350,000 travellers.
In addition, the airline is increasing frequency across the Tasman over the summer peak for travel between Australia and New Zealand, including:
Singapore Airlines has commenced construction of a new SilverKris Lounge at Melbourne Airport, with completion expected by the end of 2026. The new lounge will offer 30% more space, increased seating capacity, separate First Class and Business Class areas, enhanced dining options, and a premium design inspired by Singapore’s flagship SilverKris Lounge.
The existing Melbourne SilverKris Lounge will remain open throughout the renovation period, ensuring uninterrupted lounge access for eligible customers.
As part of Open House Melbourne, they’re opening the doors to the new T123 Transport Hub, giving the community a unique opportunity to experience this major infrastructure project before it opens in October this year.
Join a guided tour to explore the new Pick Up & Drop Off zones, walk across the new pedestrian bridge and learn more about how this project is supporting Melbourne Airport’s future growth while improving the experience for millions of travellers.
Date: Saturday 25 July
Tours: 9:30am, 12pm & 2:30pm
Duration: 75-minute guided tours (groups of 60)
Free tickets will be available from 12pm on Wednesday 1 July.
Sydney Airport’s Lost Property Auction is back for 2026, with more than 2,300 unclaimed items up for grabs from just $10.
From electronics to luxury goods and unexpected finds, all proceeds help fund free swimming lessons for families who might otherwise miss out, delivered in partnership with Bayside Council.
Since 2013, Sydney Airport’s Lost Property Auctions have raised almost $2.2 million for charities and community initiatives.
Royal Caribbean Group has released its 2025 Community Impact Report, highlighting its continued commitment to strengthening the communities and destinations it visits around the world. In 2025, its initiatives spanned six continents, supporting conservation, education, disaster relief and workforce development as part of its SEA the Future sustainability platform.
Key highlights include $61 million in community contributions, $13 million+ invested in conservation initiatives with the World Wildlife Fund since 2016, $10 million in charitable support this year, and 3.1 million people positively impacted across 85+ destinations since 2023.
Alongside its community initiatives, Royal Caribbean continues to advance its environmental goals through its Destination Net Zero strategy, focusing on improved energy efficiency, waste reduction and sustainable ship innovation.
As part of By Invitation’s exclusive Virtuoso membership, clients can enjoy premium benefits at Four Seasons Hotel Sydney for a limited time.
Book by 31 July 2026 and receive a guaranteed one-category room upgrade at the time of booking, plus the opportunity for a two-category upgrade by arrival, subject to availability.
The offer is valid for stays until 31 July 2026 and is available exclusively on Virtuoso rates.
Speak with your By Invitation Travel Advisor to take advantage of this exclusive offer.
Whether you’re planning your next trip or reviewing your corporate travel programme, our team is here to help.
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