If the last year was stressful, then spare a thought for the one man directly involved in every twist and turn, TWU national secretary Michael Kaine.

In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Adam Thorn speaks to one of the industry's most influential figures about the biggest stories of the last few months.

The pair discuss the union's rocky relationship with Qantas and its chief executive, Alan Joyce, whether Virgin really is genuine about its promises to become a mid-market carrier, and Rex's entry into the Golden Triangle.

Finally, the pair talk about JobKeeper and what will happen if it doesn't continue for aviation at the end of next month.