Missed this week’s must-read travel industry news and views? We’ve got you. Karryon has you covered with our recap of the 10 most-read stories of the week.
#10. Rex launches historic WA flights from Melbourne & Adelaide
The first direct Melbourne-Perth Rex flights connecting Australia’s east and west coasts have commenced, marking the airline’s inaugural services to the WA capital. Rex has also started direct Adelaide-Perth thrice-weekly services operated by National Jet Express.
#9. Gold Coast Airport domestic departure area opens after $17M upgrade
The newly opened Gold Coast Airport domestic departures lounge refurbishment includes more seating and new retail stores and food and beverage outlets. The upgrades will bring the domestic terminal in line with the international terminal.
#8. Cash Passport now includes free Purchase Protection cover
Cash Passport’s new complimentary Purchase Protection offers cover up to $700 for up to 180 days against theft or damage. It also offers Price Protection Insurance on eligible purchases and E-commerce Purchase Protection with seamless online claims.
#7. Flight Test: Air New Zealand NZ 146 BNE – AKL – LAX Economy
Karryon reviewed the Brisbane-Auckland-Los Angeles route in Air New Zealand’s award-winning Economy cabins as an alternative to Australia-LAX nonstop options and found a quick layover is just the trick to break up the trans-Pacific trip.
#6. History made: Indigenous godparents name Seabourn ship
Seabourn Pursuit was named by Indigenous godparents in a historic ceremony in the Kimberley in a cruise line and industry first. Held on Wunambal Gaambera Country, the cruise line will partner with Traditional Owners to celebrate their culture.
#5. TravelManagers’ Michael Gazal on the future of travel agents
TravelManagers General Manager Michael Gazal says travel demand is plateauing, but still high. He offers his expert insights on why travel advisors need to stay competitive with new technology and excellent customer service and how suppliers can help.
#4. Full return! Cathay Pacific ups Brisbane & Perth flights by 75%
Cathay Pacific is giving Brisbane and Perth a capacity boost, ramping up flights by 75 per cent in October and back to 2019 levels on the Hong Kong route. Cathay Pacific expects to reach 80 per cent of its pre-COVID network capacity by the second quarter of 2024.
#3. AirAsia X to fly to Africa for the first time in 2024
AirAsia X is taking off for Africa, launching new flights from Kuala Lumpur to Nairobi on 15 November 2024, marking the first direct link between Malaysia and sub-Saharan Africa. It will also be the only low-cost option between East Asia and Africa.
#2. China Eastern launches first route between Victoria & sister state
China Eastern is launching a new direct flight from Melbourne to Nanjing, marking the first-ever commercial connection between Victoria and Jiangsu Province. The thrice-weekly service is forecast to boost tourism and trade between the two regions.
#1. Melbourne Airport welcomes largest hotel opening of 2024 in Australia
The new Novotel and ibis Styles Melbourne Airport represents the largest hotel opening in Australia this year, according to Accor Pacific. It includes several MEL firsts, including a health and wellbeing club and co-working space plus multiple dining options.
And that’s another must-read recap of Karryon‘s Top 10 Stories of the week.
