It comes after we earlier reported that US airlines and Emirates were pursuing locked-down Australian pilots and will add to concerns the country could face a staff shortage when flying resumes.
It's hoped the trial will pave the way for the return of international travel, with Qantas having recently announced it will restart flights to London and LA in December.
Air New Zealand will maintain the quarantine-free suspension with Australia amid the eight-week extension of the travel bubble ban, announced on Friday. The current flights from New Zealand to Australia will be cancelled from 25 September to 30 November as COVID-19 cases in Australia continue to skyrocket. This content is available exclusively to Australian Aviation
John Sheahan was speaking at a case brought by Perth Airport arguing that Qantas owes it millions in unpaid fees.
Brits in Australia will be able to be reunited with their families in time for Christmas after Qantas confirmed the first flights from Sydney and Melbourne to London will depart on 18 December.
The ACCC has argued the agreement would “likely lead to reduced competition” following the reintroduction of travel between Australia and Japan, and make it difficult for other airlines to operate between the two countries.