Latest news with #Virgin-Qatar
Sky News AU
2 days ago
- Business
- Sky News AU
‘Significant evolution': Virgin Australia launches ‘celebration fares' following airlines landmark deal with Qatar Airways
Virgin Australia has launched mega sales in celebration of their partnership with Qatar Airways offering Aussies to fly to more than 170 international destinations. The new partnership will connect Australians through long-haul international flights from Sydney to Doha, allowing for new routes through Qatar's global network of Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Virgin's 'celebration fares' will offer domestic fares, select fares to Doha and destinations in Europe discounted up to 15 per cent. The reduced fares are available from October 16 and March 31, 2026. Flights from Brisbane commence on June 19, Perth on June 26 and Melbourne in December. 'This launch represents a significant evolution of Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways' partnership,' the statement read. 'The new services are expected to generate more than $3 billion in economic activity within Australia over the next five years, fuelled by an anticipated surge in international visitors and increased tourism spending.' A 50 per cent bonus Status Credits will be given to Frequent Flyer Members for flights between Australia and Doha for travel between October 1 and May 27. Platinum members will receive an additional 100 per cent bonus points on eligible flights, followed by 75 per cent for Gold members and 50 per cent for Silver members. The exclusive sale will end on June 30, or until sold out. Chief executive of Virgin Australia Dave Emerson said customers looking to fly Sydney to Doha will experience an 'elevated service' on board Qatar Airways' world class aircrafts. 'On board Virgin Australia's new flights to Doha, guests can expect a world class experience on board the award-winning Qatar Airways Boeing 777,' he said. 'These aircraft feature elevated service, premium amenities, the renowned Q suite's business class, spacious economy cabins, and high speed StarLink Wi-Fi free for all guests.' The launch of Virgin-Qatar is expected to generate hundreds of new jobs in aviation, hospitality and tourism-related sectors in Australia. Mr Emerson said the 'celebration fares' come at a pivotal moment for Virgin and Aussie flyers. 'Through our partnership with Qatar Airways, we're not just launching a new route — we're opening the world to millions of Australians, delivering more choice, better value and a seamless global experience,' he said. 'This partnership strengthens Australia's global connectivity while generating jobs, boosting tourism and injecting billions into the national economy.' Chief Executive of Qatar Airways officer Badr Mohammed Al-Meer said the milestone moment with Virgin is the culmination of many months of 'meticulous planning and tireless dedication'.
Yahoo
19-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Australia backs Virgin-Qatar Airways tie-up citing improved air services
By Himanshi Akhand and Rishav Chatterjee (Reuters) -Australia's competition watchdog on Tuesday backed a planned alliance between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways, saying it would provide air travellers with improved services and products. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's (ACCC) draft determination comes after it gave its interim approval to Virgin Australia in November to market and sell 28 weekly scheduled return flights between Doha and Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney. The flights would use Qatar Airways aircraft and crew in an arrangement known as "wet leasing", and start as early as June. "We consider that the proposed cooperative conduct would likely result in several public benefits including providing enhanced products and services for air travellers which would include increased choice of international flights, with additional connectivity, convenience and loyalty program benefits," ACCC Commissioner Anna Brakey said in a statement. Virgin Australia is the biggest domestic rival to Qantas Airways, which has a partnership with Dubai-based Emirates and has an arrangement with Finnair to operate flights between Sydney, Bangkok and Singapore. Qatar Airways is still awaiting government approval for its purchase of a 25% stake in Virgin Australia from the U.S. private equity firm Bain Capital. The ACCC is now seeking feedback on its draft determination before making a final decision by March or April, the regulator said. "The ACCC seems content with the Virgin-Qatar alliance and the resulting increased ticket options will likely be a welcome development for Australian consumers also," Tim Waterer, market analyst at KCM Trade wrote in an emailed response. "Whether the alliance is as warmly received by aviation competitors (... such as Qantas) is another matter." Qantas previously lobbied the government against Qatar Airways ultimately unsuccessful bid to fly additional services into Australia. Qantas shares were trading 0.4% lower. Virgin Australia welcomed the ACCC's decision, noting the flights were currently on sale. "Today's ACCC announcement confirms their support for these services," the carrier said. Qatar Airways and Qantas did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Sign in to access your portfolio
Gulf Business
18-02-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Australia backs Virgin-Qatar Airways tie-up for improved air services
Image Credit: Qatar Airways/Website Australia's competition watchdog on Tuesday backed a planned alliance between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways, saying it would Read: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's (ACCC) draft determination comes after it gave its interim approval to Virgin Australia in November to market and sell 28 weekly scheduled return flights between Doha and Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney. The flights would use Qatar Airways aircraft and crew in an arrangement known as 'wet leasing', and start as early as June. 'We consider that the proposed cooperative conduct would likely result in several public benefits including providing enhanced products and services for air travellers which would include increased choice of international flights, with additional connectivity, convenience and loyalty program benefits,' ACCC Commissioner Anna Brakey said in a statement. Virgin Australia is the biggest domestic rival to Qantas Airways, which has a partnership with Dubai-based Emirates and has an arrangement with Finnair to operate flights between Sydney, Bangkok and Singapore. Qatar Airways is still awaiting government approval for its purchase of a 25 per cent stake in Virgin Australia from the US private equity firm Bain Capital. The ACCC is now seeking feedback on its draft determination before making a final decision by March or April, the regulator said. 'The ACCC seems content with the Virgin-Qatar alliance and the resulting increased ticket options will likely be a welcome development for Australian consumers also,' Tim Waterer, market analyst at KCM Trade wrote in an emailed response. 'Whether the alliance is as warmly received by aviation competitors (… such as Qantas) is another matter.' Qantas previously lobbied the government against Qatar Airways ultimately unsuccessful bid to fly additional services into Australia. Qantas shares were trading 0.4 per cent lower. Virgin Australia welcomed the ACCC's decision, noting the flights were currently on sale. 'Today's ACCC announcement confirms their support for these services,' the carrier said. Qatar Airways and Qantas did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
