Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia welcome ACCC determination on trans-Tasman alliance
Air New Zealand welcomed (03-Sep-2013) the determination of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) which has granted authorisation for its trans-Tasman alliance with Virgin Australia through until 31-Oct-2018. Air New Zealand chief strategy, networks and alliances officer Stephen Jones said: "Authorisation of the alliance for a further four years and 10 months will enable the airlines to continue to improve the customer journey across the Tasman. It will also enable the airlines to continue to leverage efficiencies, opportunities and cost savings on Tasman operations". The re-authorisation of the alliance is still subject to approval from the New Zealand Minister of Transport. Virgin Australia CEO John Borghetti also welcomed the ACCC's determination, stating: "it will enable us to continue to work together for the benefit of consumers, tourism and business in Australia". Mr Borghetti said the alliance is made up of four key components:
- A broad free-sale codeshare arrangement covering all Tasman sectors and domestic Australian and New Zealand sectors as part of a connecting journey;
- A revenue share agreement;
- Reciprocal loyalty scheme benefits to members of Air New Zealand's Airpoints loyalty programme and Virgin Australia's Velocity Rewards programme; and
- Reciprocal lounge access to qualifying guests of either airline. [more - original PR Air New Zealand] [more - original PR Virgin Australia]