Jake Nelson

The scientists from Monash University and RMIT examined different carbon fibre laminate designs under various hot and humid conditions, and found that moisture, rather than “specific temperature or humidity”, is the “dominant factor controlling how the material degrades over time”.

In its submission to the Productivity Commission’s inquiry into regional airfares, the RAAA suggested that a new Regional Aviation Investment Fund could be funded in part through the international departure tax, and would help offset costs that lead to high ticket prices.

In its Regional Airports Financial Sustainability Survey 2026, conducted alongside Regional Capitals Australia, the Australian Airports Association found losses from “around $100,000 into the millions”, with 23 airports forced to defer capital upgrades due to financial constraints.

The carrier, which currently flies daily between the Victorian and Sri Lankan hubs, will add extra A330-300 flights on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, increasing seats by more than 92,000 per year. It comes as Melbourne marks its busiest February on record for international travel.

The UK flag carrier will fly daily between Melbourne and London Heathrow via Kuala Lumpur on its four-class 787-9 Dreamliners starting on 11 January. The airline’s only current Australian destination is Sydney, which it flies daily via Singapore.

Speaking to ABC Radio National, Transport Minister Catherine King said she had “heard reports” that China had told its oil refineries to halt exports, but that Qantas and Virgin were in a position to handle at least any short-term disruptions.