Australia's major airlines are embarking on a massive recruitment and operational push as they prepare for what is predicted to be the busiest summer travel period on record. However, despite adding extra staff and aircraft, passengers are being cautioned to brace for significant delays, driven by ageing airport technology and unpredictable weather patterns.
Virgin and Qantas Ramp Up for the Peak
Virgin Australia is leading the charge, planning to operate a staggering 19,000 flights during the school holiday period. This represents a 3 per cent capacity increase compared to the previous year, facilitated by new aircraft and additional routes. To manage this surge, the airline has taken on 185 extra airport staff, ranging from baggage handlers to control room operators.
Virgin's Chief Operating Officer, Chris Snook, described the intricate logistics as "a giant game of Tetris," where each block represents a flight that must be meticulously tracked throughout the day. As a further precaution, the airline will keep three or four aircraft spare across the summer to cover any unexpected operational issues.
Not to be outdone, Qantas is boosting its own capacity by reactivating its 10th and final Airbus A380 from long-term storage, where it had been parked for five-and-a-half years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Storm Clouds on the Horizon: Weather and Tech Woes
Despite these preparations, forecasters are warning of turbulent times ahead. Virgin Australia's meteorologist, Michelle Berry, revealed that weather has been impacting operations almost daily through October and November, a trend likely to continue over the hotter months.
Compounding the problem is outdated airport infrastructure. Industry leaders are sounding the alarm that without urgent investment in modern, seamless travel technology—like the passport-free systems used in Singapore and the Middle East—immigration delays will worsen. Simon Westaway from the Australian Airports Association urged Australia to follow these international examples to avoid repeats of the lengthy queues recently seen at Melbourne Airport.
Adding to the potential for chaos, ongoing construction at major hubs like Brisbane and Melbourne airports is expected to cause further congestion and delays outside terminal buildings.
A Record-Breaking Season Demands Patience
The aviation industry is pushing full throttle into a season of unprecedented demand. From December 15 onwards, Virgin Australia alone will complete more than 450 flight operations daily across the country.
While airlines are doing everything in their power to prepare, the message to holidaymakers is clear: plan for a record-breaking summer of travel, but also pack your patience. The combination of extreme demand, volatile weather, and technological bottlenecks means that delays, unfortunately, are likely to be part of the journey.
