What Can We Expect From Travel In 2024?

As we see the travel industry set to return to pre-pandemic capacity, 2024 will bring a range of updates from a number of airlines. From increased international capacity, Business Class suite debuts and new international routes, everything is pointing to an exciting year in the air space industry.

So, what can we expect in 2024?

JAL A350-1000 Starting Tokyo – JFK 

Japan Airlines (JAL) is gearing up for an exciting start to 2024 with the introduction of its new Airbus A350-1000. The inaugural route begins at Tokyo Haneda International Airport and travels to John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. Commencing from January 24, 2024 and operating as a daily service, tickets are able to be purchased and have been available as early as December 11 2023 – get in touch with an airfare specialist regarding these fares. 

Additionally, JAL also has plans to extend its reach to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport from Tokyo Haneda, with service expected shortly after receiving its third A350-1000 of the 13 the airline ordered. 

Oman Air Set To Join Oneworld

In a significant development for the aviation industry, Oman Air is set to become the newest member of the Oneworld alliance in January 2024, cushioning the alliance’s presence in the Middle East. Codesharing with Qatar Airways and Malaysia Airlines, it is believed Oman Air will join Oneworld alongside esteemed carriers such as American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific and more. 

This strategic decision will unlock plenty of benefits for frequent flyers across all Oneworld member airlines. The integration aligns Oman Air’s Sinbad loyalty program with Oneworld status tiers, offering enhanced baggage allowances, priority services, and access to Business Class lounges. As a Oneworld member, Oman Air also becomes integral to planning round-the-world trips with the airline’s network spanning the Middle East, Africa and Asia with Singapore and Bangkok being key hubs. View the latest Oman Air Europe Airfare Deals here.

Asiana Airlines Seasonal Melbourne-Seoul Route

Asiana Airlines is currently operating seasonal flights between Melbourne and Seoul, providing a direct and convenient connection. This welcomed service, available every Tuesday and Thursday, commenced on December 26, 2023 and is set to continue until the end of February 2024. Utilising the state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900 aircraft with the exclusive 1-2-1 ‘Business Smartium’ class, passengers are enjoying a comfortable 10 hour and 30 minute journey. 

As Melbourne Airport continues to emerge as a hub for travel, exceeding 2019 international seat numbers ahead of forecast, February is predicted to be a big month ahead. Check out Asiana Airlines latest deals to Europe or the US before this seasonal route finishes!

Qantas Upgrades Sydney-Honolulu To Its 787 Dreamliner

Qantas is elevating the Sydney-Honolulu route by replacing the older Airbus A330 with the modern Boeing 787 Dreamliner on QF103/QF104 flights. This upgrade introduces Premium Economy for travellers and enhances the 787 Business Class Suites, offering a refined experience with features like a retractable panel between middle seats for a more shared experience. If you’re looking at booking a trip to Hawaii and interested in flying Business Class, get in contact with an airfare specialist today. 

Turkish Airlines Direct Flights to Australia 

Turkish Airlines plans to begin flights to Melbourne this year as well as Sydney with a previously proposed timeline of late March 2024. The 19-hour route from Istanbul to Australia with a stopover in Singapore, has been approved by the Australian Government to operate a total of 21 times a week. Turkish Airlines chairman Ahmet Bolat told local media outlet Hürriyet Daily News that flights with Turkish Airlines to Australia will commence between March 15 and March 25 2024. View the most current RTW Turkish Airlines airfare deals.

Hawaiian Airlines 787 Business Class Debut

Hawaiian Airlines is set to debut its Boeing 787 Business Class, named Leihoku Class, on flights to Los Angeles and San Francisco from April to May 2024. Reflecting the carrier’s island home and Polynesian heritage, the Business Class cabin features ‘Cabana Suites’, Koa wood-patterned flooring, and ceiling-mounted LED lights depicting constellations. The Leihoku Class, with privacy doors for all suites and paired middle Cabana-Suites, aims to enhance the passenger experience. 

Hawaiian Airlines plans to operate four Boeing 787’s by the end of 2024, dedicated to major trans-Pacific routes from Honolulu, solidifying its commitment to providing a unique and comfortable journey for passengers celebrating special occasions. 

Lufthansa and SWISS Unveil Luxurious A350 Cabin Designs

Lufthansa introduces ‘Allegris’ and SWISS unveils ‘SWISS Senses’, showcasing sophisticated cabin designs for their A350s. Lufthansa’s ‘Allegris’ includes three first class suites, featuring unique ‘SUite PLus’ for couples, seven upgraded Business Class options, and enhanced Premium Economy and Economy. SWISS’s ‘SWISS Senses’ mirrors Lufthansa’s design with dual centre seats in First Class, private suites in Business Class, and upgraded Economy. Both airlines focus on personalised experiences, with amenities such as sliding doors, advanced technology, and unique washroom designs. Aimed to launch early 2024, travellers can expect to experience a greatly upgraded version of A350 Lufthansa and SWISS product. 

Singapore Airlines Launching Gatwick Airport Route

Singapore Airlines announced nonstop flights between Singapore and London Gatwick, beginning from June 21. The A3590-900 aircraft will operate this five-times-weekly service, featuring 42 Business Class, 24 Premium Economy, and 187 Economy Class seats. 

This strategic addition aims to address slot shortages at Heathrow and compliments Singapore Airlines existing Heathrow services, bringing the total weekly London operation to 33 flights. With more exciting advancements to come from Singapore Airlines in late October (check it out below), 2024 is announced as a big year for this carrier. 

Etihad launches nonstop flights to Nice, France

Etihad revealed late last year, their 2024 summer schedule, highlighting big plans for growth and reiterating its commitment to add new destinations over this year. One big highlight from their schedule is the newly introduced two non stop weekly services to Nice, along the French Riviera. 

Flying from their hub in Abu Dhabi, they will be able to showcase their newly established Etihad Lounge. View the latest European deals from Etihad Airways and book your 2024 summer holiday. 

Cathay Pacific ‘Aria’ Business Class Suite To Debut

Cathay Pacific introduces its all-new Boeing 777 ‘Aria’ Business Class suite, set to debut in mid-2024. The suite features a sliding privacy door, wireless device charging, a 4K in-flight entertainment screen with Bluetooth audio, and extended wings for enhanced privacy. Additional storage options, including a drawer under the wide shelf, enhance convenience. The cabin design incorporates gentle curves and woodgrain-like surfaces, with specific details under wraps. 

The airline is gradually expanding its presence in Australia, with plans for flight increases and aircraft changes in Perth and considerations for Sydney and Melbourne. 

Qantas Launching Perth to Paris Route 

Qantas is set to debut its non-stop flights from Sydney to Paris via Perth, with the first departure scheduled for July 12. While this route has long been on Qantas’ radar, the service is strategically timed to coincide with the lead-up to the Olympics. Initially operating four times a week during the Olympic period, the frequency will later be adjusted to three times a week post-event. Operated by the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, the flights will feature Business Class fully Flat Beds, Premium Economy, and Economy options. 

Building on the success of existing routes to London and Rome, Qantas adds Paris as its second year-round European destination, making it the world’s sixth-longest flight route and airline second longest, just behind the Perth to London service. 

Singapore Airlines Boosting Australian Flights

From October 27, Singapore Airlines will add a fifth daily flight to its Sydney to Singapore schedule, bringing it back up to pre-pandemic levels. The carrier is enhancing its services with the new SQ201/SQ202 route, offering additional opportunities for travellers to access Singapore Airlines Business Class flights and connecting key destinations in the UK, Europe, and Asia through Changi Airport. The SQ202 Boeing 777 departs Sydney daily at 6:45am, reaching Singapore at 11:50am, while the SQ201 Airbus A350 leaves Singapore at 7:10pm, arriving in Sydney at 5:55am the next day. The Airbus A350 features a preferred long-haul Business Class configuration (1-2-1) providing direct aisle access, full Flat Beds and premium amenities. 

This expansion also benefits Star Alliance partners. Singapore Airlines is further increasing flights to Adelaide, offering 10 per week from October 27. View Business Class airfare with Singapore Airlines to Europe and North America. 

This year promises an exciting era for the travel industry, marked by significant developments from various airlines. From the introduction of new aircraft, alliances, and routes to upgrades in Business Class services and cabin designs, passengers can anticipate a dynamic and enhanced flying experience. 

As airlines expand their networks and improve in-flight amenities, the travel landscape is poised for a remarkable year ahead. Get in contact with an airfare specialist today to book your trip for 2024.