At Orbit World Travel, we strive to stay up to date with the latest news from airlines and airports around the world. View a small section of the latest updates below.
Singapore Airlines has updated its regulations regarding the transport of power banks and batteries. Effective from 15th April 2025, passengers are prohibited from carrying power banks and spare batteries in checked luggage, aligning with international safety standards. These items must be transported in carry-on baggage, with capacity limits set at 100Wh for personal devices and up to 300Wh for medical equipment. Additionally, each passenger is restricted to a maximum of two such devices. These measures aim to enhance flight safety by minimising risks associated with battery-related incidents.
New Lounges
Korean Air is enhancing its lounge offerings with the introduction of new facilities at key airports. At Seoul’s Incheon Airport, a Prestige Class business lounge and a dedicated Million Miler Club Lounge for frequent flyers are scheduled to open in August 2025. In New York, the airline plans to unveil a 16,000-square-foot lounge at JFK Airport’s New Terminal One in 2026, featuring amenities such as a show kitchen, bar, and direct boarding access. These developments are part of Korean Air’s broader efforts to enhance passenger experiences and align with its brand refresh initiatives.
Launch of Premium Economy
Korean Air is upgrading its Boeing 777 fleet by introducing new premium economy recliners and replacing older business class seats with the latest Prestige Suites 2.0. The premium economy seats are set to debut towards the end of 2025, followed by the installation of the new business class suites. These enhancements are part of Korean Air’s broader strategy to improve passenger comfort across its long-haul fleet.
Twice as Rewarding
For a limited time, Qantas Frequent Flyers can choose to enjoy either double Qantas Points or double Status Credits on eligible Qantas marketed and operated flights across Australia and the world. Customers must register in the Qantas app or website for this offer, either before or after booking an eligible flight by 18th March 2025, for travel between 19 March 2025 and 24 February 2026. Remember to include your Qantas Frequent Flyer number.
Jetstar NZ Domestic
Earn Qantas Points on all Jetstar New Zealand Domestic flights Qantas Frequent Flyer members earn a minimum of 400 Qantas Points on Jetstar domestic flights in New Zealand, including Starter fares, and earn more points with a Flex/Flex Plus bundle.
Jetstar is expanding its Trans-Tasman network by introducing direct flights between Gold Coast Airport (OOL) and Dunedin Airport (DUD), as well as Hamilton Airport (HLZ) from June 2025. With services operating three times a week to both New Zealand cities, the new routes will offer over 115,000 additional seats annually. This marks Jetstar’s first-ever service to Hamilton, providing Queensland travellers with a second gateway to New Zealand’s North Island, with easy access to popular destinations such as Rotorua, the Bay of Plenty, and Hobbiton. The new Gold Coast-Dunedin route will enhance travel options to the South Island’s second-largest city, offering more flexibility for those wishing to explore New Zealand by flying into one region and out of another on Jetstar’s network.
The Lufthansa Business Lounge at Heathrow Airport has re-opened following an extensive renovation. The Terminal 2 lounge now sports a modern look and is open 5:00am – 10:00pm Monday – Sunday.
All travellers to New Zealand, including New Zealand passport holders, must complete a free declaration. This process has changed and can now be done via an online form or the NZTD app, for each traveller, including children and babies. Submit the declaration before your flight or sea journey to make arrival smoother, instead of completing a paper form onboard. For air travel, submit the declaration at least 24 hours before departure, and for sea travel, 24 hours before leaving the last foreign port. The declaration is linked to your passport and checked at the eGate or by a border officer. Even visa or NZeTA holders must complete the NZTD. The form is available in multiple languages, though answers must be in English. For more information click here.
