Qantas plans to use mainland China as a hub to European and other ports as part of a strategy that will see the airline launch its first non-stop flights to Beijing on Monday.

China Southern Airlines has recently entered into a new frequent flyer program partnership with Taipei-based China Airlines.

Australia's top-secret air marshals are under a cloud after Virgin Blue cast doubt on the need for the expensive anti-terrorist program.

Air China has recently signed an agreement with Dragonair that will see the Air China wet-lease two of its aircraft.