Virgin Australia has officially begun selling tickets for its wet-leased flights to Doha. The move comes after the airline gained interim approval from the ACCC for its partnership with Qatar Airways.
The new partnership between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways is set to transform international travel. It will offer Australians unprecedented access to over 100 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
Starting today, travelers can book Virgin Australia’s new direct services from Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth to Doha. Flights will then commence in June 2025. Melbourne will join the route later in the year.
These flights will utilize Qatar Airways’ spacious Boeing 777s, featuring the acclaimed Qsuite Business Class. With Qatar Airways crowned the world’s best airline eight times, including this year, passengers are guaranteed an exceptional travel experience.
From enjoying an espresso in Rome to wandering down the Champs Élysées in Paris. Australian travelers now have unparalleled ease, value, and choice to explore the globe.
Doha Launch Offers and Benefits
Economy Flights
Launch fares are available from Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth via Doha to multiple European destinations:
- Perth to Paris Economy Choice return from $1,791
- Sydney to London Economy Choice return from $1,982
- Brisbane to Rome Economy Choice return from $1,945
Velocity Points Bonanza
- Up to 20,000 bonus Points on Business return flights
- Up to 10,000 bonus Points on Economy return flights
- Potential to earn up to 63,708 Velocity Points on European trips
Economic and Strategic Impact
Pending final regulatory approval, this partnership positions Virgin Australia in the global market. The airline will be able to compete more effectively in the international travel market while enhancing domestic strategic positioning. The collaboration promises increased competition, improved connectivity, and expanded customer choices.
The economic benefits are substantial. Projections indicate more than $3 billion will be injected into the Australian economy over the next five years, creating jobs and generating opportunities across various sectors.
Leadership Perspectives
Virgin Australia Group CEO Jayne Hrdlicka highlighted the transformative nature of the partnership: “This is a massive win for Australian travelers, bringing more value and choice. We’re now able to start long-haul flying after four and a half years, with 28 new weekly services to Doha opening up global travel opportunities.”
Qatar Airways Group CEO Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer emphasized the mutual benefits: “We’re proud to support Virgin Australia’s return to long-haul international flying and boost cargo capacity, creating opportunities for Australian exporters and travelers.”
Regional Support and Tourism Boost
Queensland’s Minister for Tourism, Andrew Powell, celebrated the partnership’s positive impact on the state’s economy: “This initiative will attract more visitors to Queensland and provide crucial export opportunities for local producers, from seafood to beef.”
Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff echoed the excitement: “This marks an exciting time for Queensland, connecting Brisbane to the world and driving tourism-driven economic growth.”
A New Chapter in Australian Aviation
The Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways partnership represents a major leap forward for Australian aviation.
Starting in 2025, Qatar Airways will operate flights on behalf of Virgin Australia between key Australian cities (Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, and Melbourne) and Doha.
This partnership will provide seamless connections to Qatar Airways’ extensive global network, allowing travelers to reach destinations across the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and the Americas with just one booking.
This partnership is a significant milestone for both airlines and will further strengthen their mutual positioning in the global aviation market.
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