oceania
Qantas and Jetstar Dominate Australia–New Zealand Routes
Qantas and its low-cost subsidiary Jetstar continue to expand their dominance across the Australia–New Zealand corridor, now operating 80% of Australia’s 10 longest routes to New Zealand throughout 2025. This strategic expansion is expected to strengthen the trans-Tasman market further, offering travelers between the two countries more options and increased frequencies.
Air New Zealand Launches Christchurch–Adelaide Service
Air New Zealand has announced the launch of a new direct route connecting Christchurch and Adelaide. This move aims to enhance connectivity between New Zealand’s South Island and South Australia, providing greater convenience for both business and leisure travelers. The new service is part of Air New Zealand’s broader strategy to expand its regional and international network in response to growing demand.
Emirates to Debut Airbus A350s on Dubai–Adelaide Route
Emirates will introduce its brand-new Airbus A350s on non-stop flights between Dubai and Adelaide later this year. This marks the airline’s first long-haul deployment of the A350ULR, promising improved fuel efficiency and passenger comfort on the route. The move underscores Adelaide’s growing status as a key international gateway in the Oceania region.
Cathay Pacific Boosts Perth–Hong Kong Frequencies
Cathay Pacific will increase its service between Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) and Perth Airport (PER) to twice daily, up from 11 weekly flights. The expanded schedule, effective October 2025, will provide more one-stop connections for Western Australia’s key visitor markets, including the UK, the US, and Japan. The additional capacity is expected to support both tourism and business travel.
Vietjet Announces Ho Chi Minh City–Auckland Nonstop Flights
Vietjet will commence non-stop flights between Ho Chi Minh City and Auckland starting September 2025, utilizing its fleet of Airbus A330-300s. This new route will enhance direct connectivity between Vietnam and New Zealand, catering to the growing demand for travel and trade between the two countries.
Air India and Air New Zealand Explore Direct India–NZ Flights
Air New Zealand and Air India are in discussions to introduce direct flights between India and New Zealand by the end of 2028. In the meantime, the two airlines have launched a codeshare partnership, allowing passengers to travel seamlessly between the two countries.
Royal New Zealand Air Force Eyes Fleet Renewal
The Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) has confirmed plans to replace its aging Boeing 757s with a decision pending on whether to acquire Airbus A321 NEOs or Boeing 737 MAX 8s. This fleet renewal will modernize the RNZAF’s transport capabilities. The choice of the A321 vs. the MAX 8 is odd, though. It’s the kind of tradeoff that speaks to politics rather than a straightforward comparison of airplanes.
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