Industry Updates August 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 has enhanced its domestic online check-in process, allowing eligible customers to undo their check-in through the airline’s website before check-in closes. The update provides greater flexibility for travellers who need to make changes prior to departure. The feature is available to customers logged into their Airpoints account, provided baggage tags have not yet been printed.
Christchurch Airport’s updated valet parking service will launch on 28 August. Customers using Air New Zealand valet parking benefits will be required to book online at least four hours before arrival. The service will operate daily between 5.30am and 10.30pm, with alternative parking arrangements recommended outside these hours.
Qantas Frequent Flyer members can earn double Status Credits or double Qantas Points on eligible Qantas-operated flights. Register via the Qantas App and book by 2 September 2026 for travel between 3 September 2026 and 14 August 2027. Conditions and exclusions apply.
Thai Airways is edging closer to a return to Auckland, with the Thai Prime Minister indicating the airline plans to resume direct Bangkok-Auckland services by March 2027 as part of a newly announced strategic partnership between Thailand and New Zealand. While services have not yet been formally confirmed, the announcement is one of the strongest indications yet that the route could return after being suspended during the pandemic
Fiji Airports has unveiled major long-term plans for Nadi International Airport, with significant investment aimed at increasing capacity, improving infrastructure and supporting future growth in tourism and aviation. Planned upgrades over the next decade include enhancements to terminal facilities, runways, taxiways and digital systems, while additional developments such as hotels, commercial precincts and other airport-linked facilities are also proposed.
Wellington Airport’s latest Kaitiakitanga Report highlights continued progress towards its sustainability goals, with gross emissions down 29% since 2017 and direct emissions reduced by 77% when renewable energy is included.
The airport has also reduced waste sent to landfill by 21% over the same period and remains on track to achieve its targets for both emissions and waste reduction by 2030.
The report also notes ongoing progress in aviation sustainability, including the introduction of more fuel-efficient aircraft and the visit of Air New Zealand’s first electric aircraft to Wellington last summer
Indonesia is considering an increase to its Visa on Arrival (VoA) fees, which may affect travellers visiting destinations such as Bali. Under the proposal, the online Visa on Arrival fee would increase from 500,000 rupiah to 750,000 rupiah, while visas purchased on arrival would rise to 1 million rupiah. No implementation date has been confirmed, and the changes remain subject to government approval.
Travellers planning future trips to Indonesia may wish to monitor developments and factor potential visa cost increases into travel budgets.
Emirates continues to enhance flexibility for travellers, introducing unlimited date changes on eligible Dubai fares from 10 August 2026, reduced refund fees on many Dubai bookings, and one complimentary date change on tickets across its wider network.
The airline also continues to offer its Comprehensive Travel Cover, which includes benefits such as trip cancellation, baggage protection, medical expenses and emergency evacuation. For customers affected by disruptions, Emirates provides support with rebooking and accommodation where applicable.
Travellers with upcoming Emirates bookings who would like guidance on fare flexibility, travel cover or itinerary changes are encouraged to contact their Orbit consultant.
Auckland Airport has begun the next phase of its international terminal redevelopment, with upgrades underway across retail and duty-free areas for both departing and arriving travellers.
The refurbishment includes redesigned duty-free stores, new retail offerings and refreshed shopping spaces, with additional food and beverage improvements planned later this year. New standalone stores, including Aesop and Le Labo, are expected to open before the end of 2026.
The redevelopment is being completed in stages while the terminal remains fully operational. Travellers passing through Auckland Airport in the coming months should allow extra time for security screening and boarding, as some construction activity and temporary wayfinding changes will remain in place. The current phase of retail works is expected to be completed by December.
The Industry Updates August 2026 reflect continued growth and evolving conditions across global travel.
