Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways are set to enhance their partnership as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission considers granting them authorization for a five-year alliance. The proposed collaboration will see the two airlines engaging in cooperative conduct, introducing 28 new weekly return services between Doha and major Australian cities – Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne.

Under the agreement, Virgin Australia is planning to operate these services using aircraft and crew from Qatar Airways through a wet lease arrangement. The ACCC believes that this integrated alliance will bring benefits to air travelers, providing them with a wider choice of international flights, improved connectivity, convenience, and loyalty program perks.

ACCC Commissioner Anna Brakey expressed optimism about the potential advantages of the proposed cooperation. She highlighted that the alliance could lead to enhanced products and services for passengers. Brakey also noted that Virgin Australia is unlikely to independently operate long-haul international flights between Australia and the Middle East in the near future, diminishing concerns about negative impacts on the Australian aviation workforce.

While the final regulatory nod is still pending, the ACCC is calling for feedback on the draft determination before making a conclusive decision. An interim agreement was granted to Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways, enabling them to commence promotional activities and sales for the new flight routes. This alliance promises to bring increased options and benefits for travelers and could reshape the aviation landscape between Australia and Qatar. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development.