Etihad defends proposed alliance with Virgin Blue

Etihad Airways defended its proposed alliance with Virgin Blue, stating the move will have "strong benefits for travellers" (Gulf News, 15-Sep-2010). The comments came after Qantas yesterday lodged a submission to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) calling for the regulator to reject Virgin and Etihad's requests to fast-track the alliance.

Etihad Airways: "Our proposed alliance with Virgin Blue will increase competition and will have strong benefits for travellers - both in the UAE and Australia. We have submitted a response to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and we will await the outcome of the ACCC's deliberations," Spokesperson. Source: Gulf News, 15-Sep-2010.