Industry Updates June 2026 highlight key developments across airlines, airports and travel requirements relevant to business travel.
At Orbit World Travel, we continue to monitor the latest developments across the travel industry.
Below is a summary of key airline, airport and travel-related updates relevant to business travel.
Air New Zealand confirmed it will increase services between Auckland and Singapore, adding additional flights over the Northern Winter 2026 season.
The expanded schedule strengthens connectivity between New Zealand and key markets across Asia, India and Europe, supported through its joint network with Singapore Airlines. The combined network is expected to increase overall capacity and provide greater flexibility for travellers between the regions.
Air New Zealand was awarded a Seven-Star PLUS safety rating by AirlineRatings.com, the highest level of recognition from the aviation safety and product rating agency.
The rating reflects strong performance across a range of factors, including operational standards, global safety benchmarks, regulatory compliance and long-term safety record. Independent assessments of onboard safety practices also contributed to the recognition.
The achievement reinforces the airline’s position as a leading and trusted carrier for corporate travel, with safety remaining a key consideration when selecting preferred airline partners.
New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade updated its SafeTravel advisories for several Middle Eastern countries, following recent developments in the region.
Advisory levels for countries including Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates were lowered to “Exercise Increased Caution”, reflecting an improvement in the overall security environment.
Travellers are advised to remain aware of current conditions and allow flexibility when planning or travelling through the region. Visit SafeTravel for updated information
Qatar Airways advised that travellers flying between Auckland and Doha on QR914/QR915 are required to ensure they meet Australian transit visa requirements prior to travel.
Passengers transiting through Australia may need to hold a valid visa unless they qualify for transit-without-visa provisions.
Travellers to Europe may experience longer processing times at airports as the European Union prepares to implement its new Entry/Exit System (EES), with initial testing and phased rollouts already impacting passenger flows.
The system introduces new biometric checks for non-EU travellers, which may result in delays at immigration points. See more here.
Air Chathams confirmed it will suspend its scheduled services between Auckland and Paraparaumu from 01 August, following ongoing challenges in sustainably operating the route.
Passengers holding bookings beyond this date will be contacted directly by the airline to discuss available options.
Air New Zealand and Jetstar will both operate seasonal services between Queenstown and Australia over the winter and early spring period, increasing trans-Tasman connectivity during one of the busiest travel seasons.
Air New Zealand will operate three weekly Queenstown–Brisbane services from 22 June to 23 October 2026, with flights scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Services will be operated by Airbus A320neo aircraft, supporting strong demand across the ski season and broader leisure travel period.
Jetstar will also commence its seasonal Queenstown–Brisbane service from 15 June, operating three times weekly on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays through to October.
Qantas introduced new international services from Auckland, resuming flights to the Gold Coast and launching a new route to Apia, as part of its expansion in the New Zealand market.
The Auckland–Gold Coast service operates three times weekly, offering a premium travel option including Business Class, alongside full-service inclusions such as meals, beverages, checked baggage and inflight entertainment. The new Auckland–Apia route provides year-round connectivity to Samoa, enhancing access across the Pacific.
These additions increase travel options for New Zealand customers across both leisure and business routes, while strengthening trans-Tasman and regional connectivity.
Jetstar confirmed it will resume services between Christchurch and Sydney from 26th October 2026, restoring a key trans-Tasman route and increasing connectivity between New Zealand and Australia.
The service will operate four times weekly, 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 launch aligns with the introduction of Jetstar’s Christchurch–Perth service from 27th October, further strengthening links between the South Island and Australia.
In addition, Jetstar will increase frequency on its Auckland–Melbourne route, providing more onward connections to its international network, including Asia. Adjustments have also been made to the Hamilton–Sydney schedule to improve connection timings.
Jetstar also advised it will suspend Auckland–Sunshine Coast and Christchurch–Cairns services from 24th October 2026, with affected customers to be reaccommodated or offered alternative options.
Auckland Airport advised that passenger volumes are increasing ahead of the July school holiday period (4–19 July), with strong demand expected across both international and domestic travel.
International traveller numbers are forecast to exceed 680,000 during the period, reflecting steady growth compared to the same time last year. Popular destinations include Australia, China and Fiji, with increased connectivity and aligned holiday schedules contributing to demand.
With higher volumes expected, airport parking is also filling quickly, and travellers planning to drive to the airport are encouraged to pre-book in advance to secure availability and avoid delays closer to departure.
Queenstown Airport confirmed plans for a major terminal upgrade and future expansion, aimed at improving safety, efficiency and overall passenger experience.
The project will include infrastructure improvements such as relocation of transport areas, road access upgrades and enhancements to terminal support services.
Wellington Airport resumed operations following a recent terminal incident; however, the Air New Zealand Domestic Lounge remains temporarily closed while assessment and remediation work continues.
Eligible customers may be accommodated in the Air New Zealand Regional Lounge, although capacity constraints are expected during peak periods.
The Industry Updates June 2026 reflect continued growth and evolving conditions across global travel.
