Flight Buzz
Virgin Australia pet travel: Flights are coming by end of year – Here’s everything you need to know | Explainer

Pet lovers, rejoice! From the end of this year, passengers should be able to bring their pets on board select Virgin Australia domestic flights.
After announcing plans for pet-friendly flights last year, the airline has finally cleared all the regulatory hurdles, and announced they’re cleared for take-off.
Here’s everything you need to know about how they will work.
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Where will the pets be on the planes
Virgin Australia has received approval from Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) to allow small animals on board their planes.
Margy Osmond, CEO of Tourism and Transport Forum, told Today there will be only two designated rows on pet-friendly flights for owners and their animals.
READ MORE: Sydney named as one of the most stunning cruise ports in the world – but not the best
“There’ll be no taking your pet for a walk up and down the aisle on the plane,” she said, “it’s got to stay in its carrier.”
Virgin Australia CEO Dave Emerson said that some specific food laws were tricky to navigate when trying to get approval.
“Under aviation regulations, an aeroplane is considered to be a restaurant for the purposes of food service regulation,” he said at the CAPA Airline Leader Summit in Cairns.
“And so, you’re not allowed to bring pets into a restaurant, so we had to go get the rules changed and get an exemption.”
“That process is now finally completed, so we’re looking forward to launching pets on board before the end of the year.”
Last month, that change was approved by FSANZ, which is good news for pet parents who don’t want to leave their furry friends at home.
“We assessed the microbiological food safety risks and found that, with appropriate risk management controls in place, the presence of pet cats and dogs in aircraft cabins presents a low risk to passengers,” a FSANZ statement said.
Does Virgin allow pets in the cabin?
It’s expected that the airline’s pet-friendly flights will start by the end of 2025, with their Sydney to Melbourne route tipped as the first one.
Pets will only be allowed on select flights.
What is the pet policy on Virgin Airlines?
Virgin Australia will allow small pets like cats and dogs to travel in carriers that can be stowed under the seat, just like hand luggage.
The carrier and the pet must weigh no more than 8kg total. Carriers must meet strict size and ventilation requirements.
Pets must remain in their carriers at all times during the flight – no roaming or sitting in their owners’ laps.
Travellers with pets will be seated in separate rows from general passengers.
How much does it cost to fly a dog domestically in Australia?
Virgin Australia will become the first Australian airline to allow pets to fly in the cabin.
The airline has not yet confirmed exactly what the associated costs will be. But previously it was indicated that bringing a furry friend along will add an extra $100-$150 onto the cost of a ticket.
How do I add a pet to my flight?
Virgin Australia says their pet-friendly service is on track to launch by the end of 2025, and more information will come soon.
Interestingly, due to regulatory loopholes, the final approval for pets coming aboard comes down to the pilot.
Under Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) rules, the pilot is responsible for everyone on board, and approves what can and cannot be brought onto the plane.
That includes denying animals to come aboard, including service animals, if the pilot deems it a safety risk.
Flight Buzz
Fly Direct from East Tennessee: Breeze Airways Announces Affordable Flights To Tri-Cities Airport with Routes To Orlando And Washington, D.C.

Sunday, August 3, 2025
East Tennessee travellers can look forward to a fresh, wallet-friendly way to get to two of the country’s hottest spots. Breeze Airways, known for its low fares, will launch nonstop flights into Tri-Cities Airport in Blountville beginning December 2025. This service launch is big news for the region, giving everyone from families headed to Disney to business folks needing to meet in the nation’s capital, more convenient choices for the journey to Orlando and Washington, D.C.
New Routes for East Tennessee: Connecting to Major U.S. Destinations
Breeze Airways, founded in 2021 by David Neeleman, will operate two exciting new nonstop routes from Tri-Cities Airport:
- Orlando, Florida (MCO): Starting December 12, 2025, Breeze will offer flights to the Sunshine State, with service on Mondays and Fridays. This new route will be a boon for families planning a Disney getaway or travellers looking to enjoy all that Orlando has to offer, from theme parks to vibrant nightlife.
- Washington, D.C. (IAD): Beginning December 15, 2025, Breeze will also connect Tri-Cities to the U.S. capital with nonstop flights, available every Monday and Friday. This route is perfect for business travellers heading to Washington, D.C., for meetings or those interested in exploring the rich history and culture of the nation’s capital.
Both routes will provide a convenient and affordable option for travellers in East Tennessee who previously had to rely on longer, more expensive flights from nearby airports. The new routes will offer residents of the Tri-Cities area greater access to key domestic destinations without the need for connecting flights or long drives to larger airports.
Why Breeze Airways? Affordable and Efficient Air Travel
Breeze Airways prides itself on providing efficient and affordable flights between secondary airports, a model that allows the airline to serve underserved communities like East Tennessee. Founded by David Neeleman, who previously launched JetBlue, Breeze aims to make air travel more accessible to a wider range of people by offering low-cost fares without sacrificing comfort.
Breeze Airways flies to over 60 airports across the United States, including Memphis, and its expansion into Tri-Cities marks another step in its effort to serve more regional markets. With one-way fares starting as low as $39 for Washington, D.C., and $49 for Orlando, Breeze is making it easier for people in East Tennessee to travel without breaking the bank.
A Milestone for Tri-Cities Airport
The arrival of Breeze Airways at Tri-Cities Airport is a major development for the region. Tri-Cities Airport Authority President and CEO Gene Cossey described the new partnership as a ‘major milestone’ for the airport, noting that it’s the result of years of hard work, collaboration, and support from the local community. The new flights are expected to bring increased traffic and economic benefits to the airport and the surrounding area.
The partnership with Breeze Airways is part of a broader strategy to enhance the airport’s offerings and provide more options for travellers. In recent months, other airports in the region, such as McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville, have also expanded their routes, further enhancing East Tennessee’s connectivity.
Benefits for East Tennessee Travelers
For East Tennessee residents, these new nonstop flights represent a major improvement in travel convenience. With both routes flying on Mondays and Fridays, they are perfectly timed for long weekends, quick business trips, or family vacations. The addition of Orlando and Washington, D.C., to the airport’s roster of destinations offers greater flexibility and options for those looking to travel without the hassle of layovers or complicated flight itineraries.
In addition to leisure travel, the Washington, D.C., route will provide valuable access for business travellers, students, and government employees. The proximity to Washington, D.C., makes it an ideal destination for those traveling to the nation’s capital for meetings, conferences, or other professional engagements.
Economic Impact and Community Support
The introduction of Breeze Airways’ flights is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy. Not only will the airline bring more travellers to the region, but it will also contribute to the growth of local businesses that rely on tourism and business travel. The increased access to major destinations like Orlando and Washington, D.C., will likely boost spending in the Tri-Cities area as visitors arrive for vacations, conferences, or work-related travel.
In addition, the increased air traffic will help stimulate job growth at Tri-Cities Airport, with more opportunities in fields such as customer service, security, and ground operations. The airport has been a key driver of economic development in the region, and the addition of Breeze Airways’ service will further cement its role as a central hub for East Tennessee travel.
Booking Your Trip: Affordable Fares and Easy Travel
Booking a flight with Breeze Airways is simple and convenient. Travelers can book directly through the Breeze Airways website or mobile app, where they can view available flights, check prices, and secure their seats. The airline offers a user-friendly booking experience with transparent pricing and no hidden fees.
With fares starting at just $39 for Washington, D.C., and $49 for Orlando, Breeze Airways is providing an affordable and efficient way for East Tennessee residents to visit some of the most popular destinations in the U.S. Whether you’re planning a family vacation to Orlando or a business trip to Washington, D.C., Breeze Airways is making travel easier and more accessible than ever before.
Conclusion: A New Era of Travel for East Tennessee
Breeze Airways is bringing a fresh wind of travel possibilities to Tri-Cities Airport, and it’s hard not to feel excited. With new, budget-friendly nonstop flights to sunny Orlando and the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., folks in our area have fresh, hassle-free ways to reach popular U.S. hotspots. Whether you’re headed out for a family vacation, a quick weekend getaway, or an important work trip, these routes deliver the low-cost, no-fuss travel the region’s growing tourism and business crowds have been waiting for.
Looking ahead, Breeze Airways’ growing network suggests even more flight options coming our way. East Tennessee is on the up, and our local travel scene is only getting brighter. So grab your tickets, toss some clothes in a suitcase, and get ready to take off with Breeze Airways this December. Adventure is just a boarding pass away.
Flight Buzz
Flynas Joins Azerbaijan Airways, Air Arabia and Etihad, Boosts Travel with Its Direct Flights from Riyadh to Moscow: Here’s What You Need To Know

Sunday, August 3, 2025
Flynas has just launched direct flights from Riyadh to Moscow, and this is big news for tourism in Saudi Arabia. Starting August 1, 2025, these three weekly flights are a game-changer, making Riyadh more accessible to Russian tourists. Not only does this make it easier for travelers to visit the Kingdom, but it also strengthens the city’s status as a tourist destination.
This new service will allow visitors from Russia to experience Riyadh’s rich history, modern attractions, and cultural sites without the hassle of connecting flights. It’s an exciting time for tourism in Riyadh, and this move opens up new doors for travelers.
Supporting Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Goals
This isn’t just about a flight route – it’s part of a larger strategy to boost Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector. The Kingdom has set an ambitious goal to attract 150 million tourists annually by 2030, and this new route is helping to make that vision a reality. By connecting Riyadh directly with Moscow, Flynas is making it easier for tourists to visit and for Saudi Arabia to meet its tourism targets.
The new flights also fit perfectly into the Kingdom’s National Tourism Strategy, which focuses on enhancing Saudi Arabia’s global connectivity. This makes Riyadh more accessible, inviting, and a major player in the global tourism scene.
Riyadh’s Growing Passport Ranking and Global Appeal
Saudi Arabia’s passport has climbed to 54th place in the global passport rankings for 2025, making it easier for Saudi citizens to travel and positioning the Kingdom as an attractive destination for international tourists. This growth in passport ranking reflects Saudi Arabia’s expanding influence and its efforts to increase global tourism.
The rise in passport strength is a sign that Saudi Arabia is becoming more connected with the world, and the new Riyadh to Moscow flight route is a perfect example of how the country is enhancing its appeal for both leisure and business travel.
Boosting Cultural and Business Tourism
Beyond leisure tourism, the new Riyadh to Moscow flight is expected to boost business tourism as well. Saudi Arabia and Russia share strong business ties, and direct flights make it easier for Russian professionals to visit Riyadh for meetings, conferences, and trade events. This strengthens the bond between the two nations and opens doors for more investment and collaboration.
Culturally, Saudi Arabia has a wealth of experiences to offer. Riyadh is home to stunning historical landmarks like Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and modern attractions that showcase the Kingdom’s growth. Russian tourists, in particular, are keen to explore Saudi Arabia’s rich culture, and now, it’s more convenient for them than ever.
Flynas: Making Riyadh More Accessible
Flynas has been at the forefront of expanding Saudi Arabia’s air connectivity. With a focus on affordable, high-quality travel, Flynas is making it possible for more people to visit Riyadh. The airline’s low-cost model ensures that flights remain affordable, attracting budget-conscious travelers who might not have considered visiting Riyadh otherwise.
Flynas’ new direct route to Moscow is part of its growing network, which connects Riyadh to a variety of international destinations. This helps put Riyadh on the map as a city that’s not just a national capital, but a global tourism hub.
The Future of Tourism in Riyadh
Looking ahead, the future of tourism in Riyadh looks bright. As Saudi Arabia continues to grow as a tourism destination, more international routes and collaborations are expected. The Riyadh to Moscow flight is just the beginning. As the Kingdom invests in infrastructure and promotes tourism, Riyadh will continue to attract more global visitors.
This is a pivotal time for Riyadh. With Vision 2030 guiding the way, the Kingdom is positioning itself to be a top tourist destination. And with airlines like Flynas expanding connectivity, Riyadh’s tourism sector is set to thrive in the years to come.
Flight Buzz
Tuticorin Airport’s New Terminal Officially Operational; All IndiGo Flights Now Operate From The Upgraded Facility

Great news for air travellers in South Tamil Nadu! IndiGo, India’s leading airline, has officially moved all its flight operations in and out of Tuticorin Airport to the brand-new terminal building, starting today. Say goodbye to the old terminal and get ready for a refreshed airport experience the next time you fly!
IndiGo Shifts To New Terminal At Tuticorin Airport
From August 3 onwards, every IndiGo flight, whether you’re arriving in Tuticorin or flying out, will use the new terminal building. The older terminal is no longer in use, so make sure you head to the right location to avoid any last-minute confusion. Tuticorin Airport also shared a warm welcome to passengers on X (formerly Twitter). The new terminal is expected to offer more space, better facilities, and a smoother travel experience.
Dear passengers ,
Welcome to our NEW Terminal Building!!!
We are pleased to inform you that our flight operations will be shifting to the new terminal building starting tomorrow onwards i. e. 03.08.2025 (1/2)@AAI_Official @AAIRHQSR @MoCA_GoI @IndiGo6E @flyspicejet
— TUTICORIN AIRPORT (@aaitutairport) August 2, 2025
IndiGo also took to X and posted a travel advisory, asking passengers to update their contact details in their booking. The travellers are advised to ensure they receive all important updates, including flight delays, gate changes, or boarding announcements, right on their phone or email.
Here’s what the airline said: “Effective August 3, all IndiGo flights to/from Tuticorin (TCR) will operate from the New Terminal Building, offering a refreshed and enhanced airport experience. Please update your contact details and monitor your flight status for a smooth journey.”
Also Read: Nagpur Airport Loses Fourth Route In Months As Star Air Pulls Kolhapur Flight
IndiGo’s Strong Performance Despite Challenges
This upgrade comes at a time when IndiGo is doing quite well financially, even with tough global conditions affecting the airline industry. InterGlobe Aviation, the parent company of IndiGo, reported a net profit of ₹2,176 crore for the first quarter of the fiscal year 2025–2026, just one day prior to this terminal shift, according to News18.
Between April and June 2025, IndiGo carried over 3.1 crore passengers, a 12% increase compared to last year. It maintained a strong 84.6% load factor, even with a slight dip, and reported revenues of ₹20,496 crore
If you’re planning to fly from Tuticorin anytime soon, whether it’s a business trip, a holiday, or a visit home, head to the new terminal at the airport. All IndiGo flights are now operating from this new space, designed to make your journey more comfortable and efficient.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/Prime Minister’s Office
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First Published: August 03, 2025 1:15 PM
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