Airline Updates
Jetstar announces plans to suspend certain domestic flights
Jetstar has announced a proposal to cease its regional turboprop services in New Zealand. The plans are to suspend flights to Nelson, Napier, New Plymouth and Palmerston North from 01 December 2019 with final flights on 30 November 2019.
Air New Zealand boosts Singapore services
Air New Zealand plans to increase the frequency of its Auckland-Singapore services with Singapore Airlines from 12 to 14 times weekly. The joint venture extension plans for an additional 35,000 seats between March 2020 and October 2020.
Qantas introduces new cabin baggage allowances
New changes to Qantas’ cabin baggage policy will see passengers travelling in First, Business and Premium Economy class on international services now allowed the following:
- 1 x 115cm - maximum 10kg; or
- 2 x 105cm - maximum 10kg for one piece and a combined total weight of 14kg; or
- 1 x 105cm - maximum 10kg and one 185cm non-rigid garment bag, with a combined total weight of 14kg.
Airport Updates
Singapore to remove paper forms
Singapore is planning to phase out paperwork for international travellers, shifting to digital arrival card which can be completed online or through a smartphone app. This is currently being trialled with a small number of passengers arriving on Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Jetstar Asia and AirAsia, along with some coach and ferry passengers to the island. Travellers who enter Singapore multiple times in 14 days only need to submit one application to cover up to three visits.
Sydney Airport reopens Express lane
Sydney Airport has reestablished the Express Path departures lane at its T1 international terminal after construction work around the area required it to close down in May 2019. The Express Path was reopened at the end of August 2019 for premium and top-tier frequent flyers allowing them to avoid extended wait times and extensive queues when flying out of Sydney.
New premium lounge for Perth
Perth Airport will soon have a new premium departure lounge. The pay-per-use facility will be positioned in the international terminal (T1) on level three and is set to open in mid-2020. Travellers will be able to pre-book entry online for $55+GST for a three-hour stay.
Hotel Updates
Oaks Wellington open September 2019
The newest property within the Oaks Hotels and Resorts’ portfolio has begun welcoming guests in Wellington. The newbuild, nine-story property features 226 rooms with customer amenities, including meeting rooms, a fitness centre, restaurant and bar. This opening takes the total New Zealand portfolio to five, in addition to the two properties currently in operation in both Queenstown and Auckland.
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