Australia set for international flight boom as airlines expand routes

Australia is entering a new phase of international aviation, with more overseas airlines launching services and expanding nonstop connections to major destinations, according to Executive Traveller’s David Flynn.

Finnair, Turkish Airlines, British Airways, Starlux and EgyptAir are among the carriers increasing their presence, giving Australian travellers more options across Europe and Asia.

The expansion comes as airlines respond to changing travel habits following the pandemic.

Passengers are increasingly willing to pay for more space, privacy and premium service, prompting airlines to add business class and premium economy seats.

Aircraft supply and manufacturing delays have also limited the industry’s ability to expand quickly, with COVID disruptions and supply chain problems slowing new aircraft deliveries.

Qantas is pushing the boundaries of long-haul travel with Project Sunrise, planning nonstop Sydney to London and Sydney to New York services of more than 20 hours from 2027 using specially configured Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft.

Meanwhile, Turkish Airlines is planning nonstop flights between Istanbul and both Sydney and Melbourne, adding further competition on international routes.