Global passenger demand increased just 0.2% year-on-year in July 2026, as Middle East traffic fell 9.5% amid geopolitical tensions and North American demand declined 2.3%. Europe, Latin America and Africa recorded stronger growth, while Europe–Asia traffic surged 12.1% as passengers increasingly avoided Middle Eastern transfer hubs. Airlines remain cautiously positive, with global seat capacity expected to increase almost 3% in September.

Qantas and Condor launched an interline agreement on 1 September 2026, improving connections between Australia/New Zealand and Condor’s European and international network. The carriers overlap at several hubs including Paris, Rome, Bangkok and Johannesburg, while Qantas frequent flyers will also be able to redeem points for Condor reward flights.

Air New Zealand reported a NZ$336 million pre-tax loss for the year ended June 2026, reversing the previous year’s NZ$164 million profit, despite revenue increasing 3.9% to NZ$7 billion. The result was driven by approximately NZ$465 million in additional engine, fuel and maintenance costs. Management expects FY2027 to be a transition and recovery year as fleet reliability improves and maintenance expenses decline, although elevated fuel prices and rising airport and navigation charges remain significant pressures.