NEW AIRLINE - Koala Airlines is an upcoming Melbourne-based Australian budget carrier planning to launch operations

Aiming to challenge the Qantas and Virgin duopoly, it intends to service major routes with Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, offering guaranteed cash refunds if flights are canceled.

The airline is not currently flying. Tickets are not yet available for purchase.
Flights are scheduled to launch in late 2026.
It will focus on major trunk routes connecting major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, though exact route details are kept confidential to avoid competitor interference.
Koala Airlines plans to hold ticket fares in a trust account and promises guaranteed cash refunds if a flight is canceled, rather than issuing credit vouchers.
Leadership & Background: Founded by CEO Bill Astling in 2018, the airline was formed after acquiring Desert Air Safaris in 2019, taking advantage of their existing air operators' certificate. 

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