Dozens of domestic flights have been cancelled due to COVID-19, as Victoria records 2095 new cases and eight deaths.
The flights, axed on Christmas Eve, will mean last-minute disappointment for thousands of travellers.
About a dozen flights out of Melbourne Airport have been cancelled so far, with more Jetstar and Qantas trips disrupted out of Sydney, however many flights are taking off as scheduled.
The disruption has been caused by restrictions which have meant some airline staff must get tested and isolate.
It comes as Victoria records another eight deaths.
Friday's daily case figure of 2095 shows infection numbers are climbing towards the high recorded on October 22 when the state recorded 2160 cases.
It has also pushed up active infections to 15,471.
A total of 397 patients are in hospital, including 75 in intensive care, with 40 on ventilation.
The seven-day hospitalisation average is steady at 392.
Testers processed 81,565 results on Thursday, while 13,382 people were vaccinated in state-run hubs.
Meanwhile, a mask mandate for people eight years and older entering hospitality and entertainment venues and offices has come into effect.
Masks will also be required at all major events with more than 30,000 patrons, including the Boxing Day Test at the MCG, but can be removed while seated outdoors.
They do not need to be worn in households.
Masks are already required in retail settings, for hospitality workers and on public transport.
The government is also recommending Victorians work from home over the festive season and hospitality venues are being asked to consider providing a seated-only service.
A lockdown is not being considered because of Victoria's high vaccination rate.
