▶ Qatar Airways and Virgin Australia Receive Final Approval for Their Alliance

Qatar Airways and Virgin Australia have secured final approval from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) for their integrated alliance. This decision allows the Australian airline to operate 28 weekly flights between Australia and Doha under a wet-lease agreement with the Qatari carrier.

The authorization marks a crucial step in Virgin Australia’s expansion into the long-haul international market, granting it access to the infrastructure and expertise of a top-tier global airline. This will translate into increased competition and better options for Australian passengers.

Route Expansion and Global Connectivity

Virgin Australia flights, operated using Qatar Airways aircraft, will connect Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth with Doha starting in June 2025, followed by the Melbourne-Doha route in December 2025. Through Hamad International Airport in Doha, passengers will gain access to over 100 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

In addition to an expanded network, passengers will enjoy enhanced opportunities to earn and redeem miles through Qatar Airways’ Privilege Club and Virgin Australia’s Velocity loyalty programs.

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Economic Impact and Job Opportunities

This alliance will not only strengthen the aviation industry but also benefit the Australian economy. It is estimated to contribute approximately AUD 3 billion in economic value over the next five years.

In terms of employment, the collaboration will create new job opportunities. In 2025, Qatar Airways will offer temporary positions to 20 pilots and 40 cabin crew members from Virgin Australia, further solidifying cooperation between the two airlines.

A Commitment to Sustainability

The agreement also includes initiatives for the development of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and environmental management, focusing on waste and energy reduction. In October 2024, both airlines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on sustainability strategies and the training of the future aviation workforce.

Qatar Airways Group CEO, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, welcomed the ACCC’s decision: “This announcement confirms the commitment to fostering competition and delivering world-class service to Australian passengers. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in our relationship with Virgin Australia.”

Virgin Australia CEO Dave Emerson highlighted the strategic importance of the alliance: “This is a pivotal moment for Virgin Australia. We are already seeing the benefits of this partnership, with increased ticket sales due to greater competition on key routes.”

A Strategic Investment

The agreement follows the Australian government’s approval of Qatar Airways’ 25% investment in Virgin Australia on February 27, 2025. With this, the Qatari airline joins Bain Capital as a shareholder in the Australian carrier, cementing a relationship poised to transform the aviation landscape in the region.