Adam Thorn

The business said it would use its Embraer E190 and the Bombardier Q400s, which output comparatively low carbon emissions.

The budget has hinted international borders won’t fully reopen until the middle of 2022 – significantly later than Sunday’s estimate of simply “2022”.

Treasurer Josh Frydenburg’s address contained no new major announcements for aviation, but revealed domestic routes have already returned to 70 per cent of pre-COVID levels.

Deputy PM Michael McCormack also unveiled a new policy statement on the matter and promised to invest $35.7 million into emerging aviation technology.

It follows the success of a number of scenic flights launched by the airline in the last six months, including its ‘Great Southern Land’ trip and a series of flights to mystery locations.

McDonald will serve in the business’ leadership team from 1 July, before assuming the senior role later this year. North will remain in the role in the interim to ease the transition.