Published on
January 11, 2026
Travelers across Australia are facing significant disruptions as Jetstar, Qantas, Alliance, Air New Zealand, Hawaiian, and other airlines are grappling with an alarming number of flight cancellations and delays. A total of 90 flights have been cancelled, and more than 300 flights have experienced delays, causing widespread chaos for passengers. These disruptions have primarily affected major airports in Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney, Townsville, and Hamilton Island, leaving travelers stranded and frustrated. The ripple effect of these issues is being felt not only by those flying with the affected airlines but also by other passengers and airport staff. With limited options and no clear resolution in sight, many are left wondering when normalcy will return. As the situation continues to evolve, airlines and airport authorities are working to address the challenges, but travelers are urged to stay informed and expect further delays.
Affected Cities and Airports
The cities and airports include Brisbane (Brisbane Airport), Melbourne (Melbourne Tullamarine Airport), Sydney (Sydney Airport), Townsville (Townsville International Airport / RAAF), and Hamilton Island (Hamilton Island Airport). These major airports are spread across key locations in Australia, where the recent flight disruptions are having a significant impact on travelers. Each of these airports is experiencing cancellations and delays, affecting passengers across various airlines, including Jetstar, Qantas, Alliance, Air New Zealand, and Hawaiian Airlines.
Flight cancellationsAirportCancelled FlightsDelayed FlightsAirlineBrisbane1611Virgin Australia1035Jetstar62Alliance Airlines218Qantas23Air New ZealandMelbourne Tullamarine675Jetstar230Qantas228Virgin Australia220QantasLink17Air New ZealandSydney749Jetstar224Virgin Australia238Qantas11Hawaiian AirlinesTownsville Int’l/RAAF70Jetstar41Qantas31Virgin Australia31QantasLinkHamilton Island80Virgin Australia20Qantas20QantasLinkAffected Airlines
The airlines include Jetstar, Qantas, Alliance Airlines, Air New Zealand, and Hawaiian Airlines. These carriers have been significantly impacted by recent operational disruptions, leading to numerous cancellations and delays across several major airports in Australia. Jetstar and Qantas are the most affected, with a high number of delayed flights, while Alliance Airlines, Air New Zealand, and Hawaiian Airlines have also experienced their share of flight disruptions. Passengers flying with these airlines have faced substantial delays, with some flights being completely cancelled, creating frustration and uncertainty for travelers.
Overview of Flight Cancellations
The flight cancellations show significant disruptions across several major airports in Australia, affecting airlines such as Jetstar, Qantas, Alliance Airlines, Air New Zealand, and Hawaiian Airlines.
At Brisbane Airport, a total of 16 flights were cancelled, with Jetstar experiencing the highest number, cancelling 10 flights. Virgin Australia and Alliance Airlines had relatively fewer cancellations, with 2 each, and Qantas had 2 cancellations as well, contributing to the overall disruption. Air New Zealand also had 2 cancellations.
Moving to Melbourne Tullamarine, there were 6 cancellations. Here, Jetstar again saw the highest number, with 5 cancellations, while Qantas had 2 and Virgin Australia had 2 cancellations. Air New Zealand had 1 cancellation.
At Sydney Airport, 7 flights were cancelled, with Jetstar leading again, cancelling 4 flights. Virgin Australia and Qantas each had 2 cancellations, and Hawaiian Airlines had 1.
In Townsville International/RAAF, 7 flights were cancelled, with Jetstar facing the bulk of cancellations, reporting 6 cancellations. Qantas and Virgin Australia each had 1 cancellation.
Lastly, at Hamilton Island, all 8 flights were cancelled by Virgin Australia, indicating a complete disruption at this location. Qantas and QantasLink had no cancellations here.
Overall, Jetstar is the airline most affected by cancellations, with 10 cancellations at Brisbane and 4 at Sydney, as well as 6 at Townsville. Other airlines like Qantas and Virgin Australia have also faced disruptions, but Jetstar remains the leader in the number of flight cancellations across all airports.
What to Do if Your Flight Gets Cancelled: A Quick Guide
Flight cancellations can be frustrating, but knowing the right steps to take can help minimize stress. Here’s what you can do if you find yourself in this situation:
Stay Updated
Monitor your email, phone, and the airline’s app for rebooking confirmation or further announcements.
Stay Calm and Check for Updates
As soon as you learn your flight is canceled, stay calm and check for updates. Many airlines will notify you via text, email, or their app. Visit the airline’s website for real-time updates on the situation.
Contact the Airline
Reach out to the airline’s customer service either in person at the airport or over the phone. If you’re at the airport, head to the service desk. If you’re not, try calling or using the airline’s online chat system to avoid waiting in long queues.
Know Your Rights
Familiarize yourself with the airline’s policies regarding cancellations. Many airlines offer rebooking options or compensation, especially if the cancellation is within their control. In the EU, for example, passengers are entitled to compensation under certain conditions.
Consider Alternative Flights
Ask the airline about the next available flight. If you can’t find a suitable option, consider booking a new flight through another airline, or check for other forms of transport like trains or buses.
The flight cancellations and delays across major airports in Australia have caused significant disruption for travelers. Jetstar, Qantas, Alliance Airlines, Air New Zealand, and Hawaiian Airlines have all been impacted, with Jetstar facing the most cancellations and delays. Airports like Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney, Townsville, and Hamilton Island have been at the center of these disturbances, leaving passengers stranded and frustrated. As airlines and airport authorities work to resolve the issues, travelers are advised to stay updated on flight statuses and prepare for potential further delay.
Source: FlightAware and affected airports
