On-time departure rates:
have improved after the COVID-19 pandemic, but remain lower than before the disruption.
remain seasonal, with punctuality dropping in summer holiday peaks.
vary between airlines, suggesting different operational strengths. For example, Rex shows more resilience with stable performance, whereas Qantas and Virgin demonstrate greater instability.
are consistently lower for Jetstar compared to other airlines.
What does this mean for travellers?
Passengers are more likely to experience delays during peak holiday months, and choosing an airline with historically punctual performance can improve the likelihood of on-time departures. Rex has consistently outperformed larger carriers on punctuality, reflecting the advantages of its smaller route network and operational focus. Qantas and Virgin also maintain relatively strong records, but their performance fluctuates more with seasonal demand. Therefore, booking a ticket with Rex, followed by Qantas or Virgin, over Jetstar can make a meaningful difference in reliability.
Delay rates are consistently higher than cancellations and fluctuate more frequently.
Cancellation rates are relatively rare, but spike during major disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Rex leads in reliability, with the lowest disruption rates among the major domestic carriers.
Qantas and Virgin are close, experiencing more disruptions than Rex.
Jetstar faces the most disruption, with more than 1 in 4 flights delayed.
What does this mean for travellers?
Fortunately, travellers can expect delays more than outright cancellations. However, even the most reliable airlines still experience delays, so including buffer time into travel plans is recommended, especially when catching connecting flights or attending time-sensitive events. Additionally, extra caution is advised if flying with Jetstar, as its higher rate of both delays and cancellations carriers an increased risk for disrupted schedules. Travellers prioritising punctuality should select an airline with a stronger operational record to guarantee a smoother journey.
On-time performance varies across routes.
Consistently punctual routes are likely due to shorter distances, less congestion, and simpler operational requirements (e.g. Alice Springs-Darwin, Perth-Port Hedland, Melbourne-Burnie).
Delays are most common on longer or more operationally complex routes (e.g. Launceston-Brisbane, Cairns-Adelaide) and on routes involving busier airports, likely during peak seasons and school holidays (e.g. Cairns-Gold Coast).
Cancellations are highest for flights concentrated on high-traffic business routes (e.g. Melbourne-Sydney, Canberra-Sydney).
What does this mean for travellers?
While short, regional routes are generally reliable, travellers on longer or busier routes should plan for delays, especially when connecting flights are involved. Additionally, travellers going between high-volume cities may face more cancellations and should allow extra flexibility when flying these routes, especially for time-sensitive trips. Therefore, choosing an airline with a reliable on-time performance and padding travel schedules with buffer time when delays or cancellations are expected will ensure a smoother overall journey.