Jake Nelson

Babcock will operate two multi-mission Leonardo AW139 helicopters with “increased speed, range and operational capability” to provide 24/7 services in the region.

The government is conducting a 90-day review of the entire $120 billion Infrastructure Investment Program pipeline, which includes the $10 billion Melbourne Airport rail link originally slated to open by 2029. The broader Suburban Rail Loop project is exempt from the review.

The Skynest pods, which economy and premium economy passengers will be able to book separately for four-hour sessions, will initially be rolled out on flights from Auckland to New York and Chicago for around NZ$400-$600 per session.

The NZ carrier is planning to buy eight new 787-9 Dreamliners and five Airbus A320neo aircraft for its Tasman and Pacific Island services, and is in final negotiations to purchase another 777-300ER for its international network.

US President Joe Biden and Transport Secretary Pete Buttigieg have announced new rules mandating compensation and coverage of expenses for passengers affected by “controllable” airline delays and cancellations, including accommodation, meals, and rebookings.

Virgin had planned to commence flights from Cairns to Tokyo’s Haneda Airport with 737 MAX planes from 28 June, but as none of the planes it has on order have arrived, the airline is instead resorting to its 12-year-old 737-700 fleet to ensure the service launches on time.