Singapore Airlines will operate its flagship A380 to Mumbai and New Delhi from May 30. The superjumbo will take over two daily flights to each city currently served by smaller 777s.
Another daily flight will continue to be operated with B777s.
Later opening hours in Melbourne CBD will enhance the tourist experience and encourage visitors to stay longer and spend more, according to the Tourism and Transport Forum (TTF).
All retailers around Bourke Street Mall, Melbourne Central, Melbourne GPO and the new Emporium Melbourne will, from April 22, be permitted to remain open until 7pm every night.
TTF chief executive Ken Morrison said cities are a major drawcard for international visitors.
"Late night retail will be great for tourists and great for the economy," he said. "A more vibrant CBD in the evening will mean visitors stay longer and spend more."
Etihad Airways chief executive James Hogan has said the airline's partnership strategy is helping boost the economies of markets around the world.
Speaking at the Global Aerospace Summit in Abu Dhabi, Hogan said the benefits flow to its partners as they gain access to Etihad's flight network, improved revenue opportunities and reciprocal cost and efficiency gains.
"The net result is stronger, more competitive airlines, delivering benefits to consumers, creating employment and contributing to economic growth," he said.
