September Takes Flight: Australia Declares New Peak Travel Month

In a striking shift for Australian travel habits, September has emerged as the new peak season, challenging traditional booking patterns. Mark Trim of Complex Travel Group, formerly The Flight Centre, emphasizes that 60 to 70% of inquiries recently have centered around travel in September, signaling exceptionally high demand and sending fares skyrocketing ahead of the usual holiday travel surge.

This timing aligns with the country’s expanding bleisure trend, where business trips are extended for leisure. In Australia, travelers now average six-night bleisure stays, which is almost double the global norm, according to Flight Centre’s data.

Queensland has emerged as a standout destination, with cities like Cairns and Brisbane leading the rise in extended corporate leisure travel.

The result is a significant spike in advanced bookings, particularly for premium economy and business class, where pricing has leapt sharply. Trim predicts that business class is evolving to resemble old-style first class, while premium economy increasingly mirrors traditional business class offerings—with higher fares to match.

Industry experts recommend booking at least three to six months in advance to avoid soaring prices, as premium cabin fares can increase by up to 30% within weeks of departure. In fact, shoulder season months like September through November now fall into this new peak category, airlines offer fewer discounts, and seats fill quickly.

To secure better deals, travelers are advised to book tickets mid-week, such as on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and subscribe to airfare alerts to get first access to the best deals. Prices often peak on weekends and closer to departure dates.

As bleisure continues to reshape corporate travel, and travellers demand more flexibility and comfort, September in Australia is no longer a secondary season; it’s the new high-demand travel period. Being strategic, early, and flexible is now essential for securing the best fares and seating options.