The spat follows details released by Defence that a Chinese J-10 fighter jet dropped flares just 300 metres in front of a RAN Seahawk on Saturday, forcing the crew to rapidly take evasive action.

By law, if a flight in New Zealand is cancelled or delayed for reasons within the airline’s control, passengers may have a right to a remedy, including refund or compensation. According to a statement from Jetstar, its ability to provide these remedies was disrupted by pandemic issues.

In his 2024–25 budget overview released on Tuesday, Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas said that the state government has a “huge amount of funding” tied up with the rail link project, and needs to be “realistic about the project and its timeline”.

The airline, which entered voluntary administration after its fleet was abruptly seized last Tuesday, will not fly again until at least Wednesday 15 May, with its administrator saying the aircraft’s lessors are looking to move the fleet overseas and admitting in court on Tuesday they cannot prevent this.