Virgin Australia has delivered a post-COVID record operating performance for both completion of scheduled flights and on time departures for the month of April.
The carrier also achieved the highest on-time performance and completion rates among major Australian airlines for April.
This impressive feat marks a significant improvement over the past four months, showcasing a strong upward trend.
To recognise the achievement, Virgin Australia and Velocity Frequent Flyer have launched a Discover Gold Status Match offer.
Virgin Australia Returns to Pre-COVID Performance
Independent data from the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE) confirms Virgin Australia’s operational performance.
In April 2024, the carrier achieved an on-time departure rate of 82.6%, and completed 98.3% of flights. Service cancellations for the month was 1.72% of scheduled sectors.
This represents Virgin Australia’s best performance in two years. It represents a significant improvement of 26.4 percentage points for on-time departures and 6 percentage points for cancellations compared to December 2023.
April Record Performance
The April result follows the airline’s significant investment in managing operational performance in a more challenging post-COVID environment.
To celebrate their success and attract new loyal customers, Virgin Australia is launching a limited-time offer: the Discover Gold Status Match.
This program allows up to 3,000 frequent flyers with Gold, Platinum, or higher status in competing loyalty programs to switch to Velocity Discover Gold.
By making the switch, flyers can experience the benefits of being on the most punctual major airline in Australia (for April) and enjoy exclusive rewards.
Upgrading to Velocity Discover Gold unlocks a world of perks for frequent flyers for 3 months. Travelers can access Virgin Australia lounges at major domestic airports before their flight.
They also enjoy a higher checked baggage allowance (except for Lite fares). Additionally, an accelerated boarding process is available with priority boarding and seating.
Virgin Australia’s achievements extend beyond punctuality. They were recently recognized as having the Best Cabin Crew for the sixth consecutive year, globally competing against 350 airlines.
This reinforces their position as not only the most on-time major Australian airline in April but also one that provides exceptional service on board.
Virgin Australia CEO Comments
Virgin Australia’s CEO, Jayne Hrdlicka, emphasizes their commitment to continuous improvement: “We’ve been laser-focused on enhancing our performance while ensuring excellent value and options for Australian travelers.”
Highlighting their return to pre-pandemic levels, Ms. Hrdlicka states, “April 2024 marked a significant milestone for Virgin Australia, achieving pre-COVID on-time performance and cancellation rates.”
“The aviation industry’s post-COVID recovery has been challenging, but it’s encouraging to see reliability and on-time rates improve across Australian airlines.”
She acknowledges the various factors that can impact operations. “We understand that weather, air traffic control, unexpected aircraft maintenance, and crew availability can all disrupt airline schedules.”
“However, our ability to manage these disruptions has significantly improved, alongside streamlining our expanding operations.”
Commenting on the Discover Gold Status Match offer, Ms. Hrdlicka concludes, “We recognize the importance of punctuality for travelers.”
“We’re thrilled to offer frequent flyers the chance to experience Velocity Discover Gold and its most sought-after benefits, including complimentary lounge access, while enjoying our industry-leading reliability and exceptional service.”
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