A Virgin Australia pilot alerted Australian authorities about a live-fire drill by Chinese naval ships last week in the Tasman Sea that forced 49 flights to change their paths, Australia's air traffic control agency head told a parliamentary committee.

Virgin Australia and Emirates aircraft heard the Chinese flotilla's radio notification about a live-firing test off the Australian coast last Friday.

Britain's Airport Coordination Limited (ACL) won a government-led tender to manage takeoff and landing slots at Sydney Airport, Australia's transport minister said on Tuesday, replacing a joint venture between Qantas and Virgin Australia.

Australia's competition watchdog has urged the country's domestic carriers to "find other ways" to boost operating capacity, as supply chain issues and delivery delays coincide with a spike in travel demand.

Australia learned about Chinese live-fire naval drills off the country’s coast that forced dozens of flights to be diverted via an alert from a commercial pilot, authorities said on Monday.

Australia on Thursday approved Qatar Airways buying a 25% stake in Virgin Australia from U.S. private equity firm Bain Capital, posing a challenge for national flag carrier Qantas that has long dominated Australian air routes.

Australian travellers are set to benefit after a deeper strategic partnership between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways Group

Virgin Australia has surpassed Qantas by carrying the largest market share of Australian domestic passengers in 2024.

Australian travellers could face cheaper airfares after Qatar Airways' 25 per cent stake in Virgin Australia was approved by the federal government.

(Reuters) - Australia's Treasurer Jim Chalmers approved Qatar Airways' proposal to buy a 25% stake in Virgin Australia, the Australian Financial Review reported early on Thursday.