The government’s plan to prop up domestic aviation by supplementing half-price tickets was dealt an enormous blow on Monday after it was announced Greater Brisbane would enter a three-day lockdown.

International airlines have said new quarantine arrangements for crew staying overnight in Australia are “chaotic” and lead to staff going without a meal in hotels.

The state also confirmed it’s still considering introducing a new Howard Springs-style cabin system in a more remote location, with ten sites now on the shortlist.

Chief executive Jayne Hrdlicka said free snacks “aren’t valued by our guests” and the decision would mean the business could keep ticket prices down.