With the latest disruptions in the Middle East, here are the latest travel updates from affected airlines, as well as your options.
Latest Airline
Airline
Virgin Australia will continue to welcome Pets in Cabin throughout 2026, welcoming new routes to bring your pets, subject to airport approval.
Effective immediately: an age restriction on children in Emirates First Class. Coming soon: you’ll need Qantas elite status to even consider booking Emirates First – and it’ll cost more points.
In a surprising move, Finnair will launch new flights to Melbourne in October 2026, flying onwards from Bangkok. Qantas Frequent Flyer members might be able to access more reward seats with low carrier charges.
With the Boeing 777X further delayed to 2027, Emirates is continuing to upgrade more Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s to the latest cabin finishes. Starlink Wi-Fi will also feature across the whole fleet.
Qantas is bringing in Economy Plus from February 2026, which offers extra legroom and priority boarding for a fee – but Platinum members will regain the ability to select these seats for free.
American Airlines is now flying the Boeing 787 with Flagship Suites between Brisbane and Dallas/Fort Worth. Here’s what it’s like onboard.
From today, pet owners can fly their small furry friends on select flights. Here’s what to expect onboard as the trial goes underway.
You can now bid for Neighbour-Free Seating on selected Virgin Australia flights, starting from $30 per leg. Here’s how.