Jake Nelson

The works will include expansion of the terminal to both the north and south, as well as a larger check-in area with overhauled technology and 25 per cent more capacity, and the addition of up to nine more aircraft parking positions.

In a statement, a spokesperson said the government is “disappointed” Nexus Airlines is not continuing on the route, which will be left to Airnorth only, but “is committed to ensuring the Kimberley remains connected and accessible”.

The second-generation E-Jets, a replacement for VARA’s ageing Fokker 100 fleet, will begin operating charter flights in October with regular passenger transport services to follow starting from November, according to data from AeroRoutes.

The NZ Employment Relations Authority has ruled against the New Zealand Air Line Pilots’ Association and two pilot members who brought a case against the airline to argue that “restrictions and complications” placed on pilots on standby entitled them to alternative holidays.

The regional jet will serve Coffs Harbour on Sydney services starting in late October, having launched on the Melbourne route in October last year. At the same time, QantasLink will also increase its Sydney–Coffs Harbour return flights from 24 to 26 per week.

Passengers on two inbound Qantas flights to Sydney – QF144 from Auckland, and QF122 from Queenstown – are now able to access the Australia Digital Travel Declaration (ATD), following a successful trial period at Brisbane Airport.