The deal, which the ACCC signalled last month that it would allow, will let Virgin place its VA code on trans-Tasman Air New Zealand flights originating and sold in Australia, provided Air New Zealand sets the fares. The consumer watchdog says it believes this will offer passengers more choice.

Last Wednesday (29 May), a 38-year-old man was sentenced by the Downing Centre District Court in Sydney to three years and four months’ imprisonment, with a non-parole period of two years, after being identified over two years ago as a potential suspect of theft at Sydney Airport’s cargo facility.

Neville Howell, Rex’s chief operating officer for the last 10 years, will step into the CEO role for an initial two-year term, while deputy chairman John Sharp has been appointed as non-executive chairman. Lim will remain with Rex as a non-executive director and significant shareholder.

Speaking at the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) AGM in Dubai, Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson confirmed the ultra-long-haul flights between the east coast and London and New York – set to be the longest in the world – are on track to launch in roughly two years.