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 Australian Government will increase the Passenger Movement Charge (PMC) from $70 to $80 from 1 January 2027.
The fee applies to all passengers departing Australia by air or sea and is typically included in the cost of international airfares at the time of booking. The increase will apply to all departures from 1 January 2027, regardless of when the ticket was purchased.
Virgin Australia is upgrading its mobile app and airport technology, with improvements expected to reduce check-in and bag drop times by up to 50%.
New features will allow eligible frequent flyers to request earlier or later flights via the app, while all travellers may be able to move onto earlier services during disruption or peak periods, subject to availability.
The airline is also introducing new bag tag technology, encouraging app-based check-in and streamlining the airport experience.
Virgin Australia has just launched an EOFY incentive for businesses to triple their Points on eligible flights.
The offer is available until 30 June 2026 through the Virgin Australia Business Flyer programme.
China Eastern will commence seasonal non-stop services between Adelaide and Shanghai from 21 June, operating three times per week.
The route strengthens connectivity for South Australian travellers, providing access to key European destinations via Shanghai.
Qatar Airways has announced new services to Bogotá and Caracas from Doha, alongside the return of flights to Tokyo Haneda and Helsinki from mid-July.
These additions enhance connectivity across the airline’s global network, with improved access for travellers connecting through Doha.
Etihad Airways will expand complimentary inflight Wi-Fi from 15 May 2026, extending access to Business Deluxe and Economy Deluxe passengers.
Sydney Airport has opened a new multi-faith room, providing a dedicated space for prayer, reflection and meditation. The facility is located opposite Gate 55 and is available during terminal operating hours.
Access to the Qantas Brisbane International Lounge has been temporarily adjusted due to ongoing upgrade works.
Passengers are required to visit the lounge prior to clearing security and passport control and should allow additional time when departing.
Access is currently unavailable for Platinum and Gold Frequent Flyers and Qantas Club members travelling on international Jetstar services, with access continuing for eligible Qantas codeshare and Business Max customers. fares.
The Federal Government has announced a $1.1 billion Cleaner Fuels Program to accelerate the development of low-carbon liquid fuels in Australia, including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel.
The investment is aimed at building domestic production capability, reducing reliance on imported fuels and supporting the aviation sector’s transition to lower-emissions operations over the long term.
For the travel industry, SAF remains one of the most viable pathways to reducing aviation emissions at scale. However, supply constraints and cost remain key challenges, with Australia currently heavily reliant on international production.
This program signals a shift toward developing a local SAF supply chain, which over time is expected to improve availability, support price stability and strengthen the resilience of Australia’s aviation sector.
As regulatory frameworks and global sustainability targets continue to evolve, initiatives like this will play an increasingly important role in how organisations approach travel policy, reporting and supplier selection.
Melbourne Airport has commenced development of a purpose-built electric bus depot to support SkyBus’ transition to a fully electric fleet by 2031.
Delivered in partnership with Kinetic, the project includes upgrades to the airport’s high-voltage power infrastructure to support both current and future electrification across the precinct.
The transition will introduce Australia’s first electric double-decker buses and is expected to deliver quieter, lower-emissions ground transport for passengers and airport staff.
The project reflects a broader shift across airport operations, where electrification of ground transport is becoming a key focus area in reducing overall emissions and improving sustainability performance at major transport hubs.
Viking has launched its first fully electric motor coach for shore excursions, now operating in Vienna.
The coach accommodates up to 49 guests and marks the first deployment of a fully electric vehicle of its kind by a river cruise operator. It is currently being used for excursions within the Austrian capital, with plans to expand the rollout across Europe.
Club Med Phuket is currently on sale, offering all-inclusive stays with meals, activities and experiences included.
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