Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways Expand Strategic Partnership
Virgin Australia plans to resume long-haul international flights in June 2025.
Australian travelers will benefit from an expanded strategic partnership between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways Group, which has received approval from the Australian government.
The decision, announced on Wednesday, includes the release of Qatar Airways Group’s 25% minority investment in Virgin Australia, which has been approved by the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB). The final approval from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is expected between March and April 2025.
Virgin Australia is still awaiting a decision from the International Air Services Commission (IASC) regarding the allocation of flight rights between Australia and Qatar, which is expected by June 2025, according to Emirates' media partner Aeroin.
Investment and Expansion
Qatar Airways Group’s equity stake will allow Virgin Australia to leverage the expertise and structure of one of the world's leading airlines, strengthening its domestic and international competitiveness.
The investment will also increase competition in the Australian aviation sector, particularly against Qantas. Existing shareholders Bain Capital, Virgin Group, and Queensland Investment Corporation will retain their stakes in Virgin Australia.
Return to International Flights
If IASC approval is granted, Virgin Australia plans to resume long-haul international flights in June 2025, operating routes from Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth to Doha. In December 2025, the airline will also launch flights from Melbourne to Doha, using aircraft leased from Qatar Airways.
This expansion is expected to increase competition and lower international airfare prices, while generating an estimated $3 billion USD in economic impact for Australia’s tourism sector over the next five years.
Through the integrated partnership, Virgin Australia passengers will gain access to over 100 new destinations within Qatar Airways' global network, covering Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Additionally, members of the Velocity and Privilege Club loyalty programs will have more opportunities to earn and redeem points.
Collaboration and Sustainability
In October 2024, the airlines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on sustainability initiatives, including the development of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), environmental management, and workforce training.
Following consultations with unions and cabin crew communities, there has been strong interest from Virgin Australia pilots and flight attendants in employment opportunities with Qatar Airways—potentially leading to promotions and new hires within the Australian airline.
Editor en Aviacionline. Especializado en Aviación Comercial / Aviación en Argentina. 45 años de periodista, y contando.
Para comentar, debés estar registradoPor favor, iniciá sesión