ACCC grants final approval to Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways for integrated alliance
Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways received (31-Mar-2025) final approval from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) for their integrated alliance. The determination officially enables Virgin to operate 28 weekly flights between Australia and Doha via a wet lease with Qatar Airways. Under the agreement, Virgin plans to commence long haul services from Sydney, Brisbane and Perth to Doha from Jun-2025, followed by Melbourne to Doha in Dec-2025. The services are designed to open up over 100 connecting itineraries from Doha to destinations across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, generating an estimated AUD3 billion in economic value to the Australian visitor and tourism economy over the next five years. Virgin CEO Dave Emerson stated: "This is a defining moment for Virgin Australia and the Australian aviation landscape... Already, we are seeing some of the positive benefits of the partnership, including increased sale activity on airfares between Australia and Europe, the Middle East and Africa thanks to increased competition". [more - original PR]
Background ✨
The Australian Government approved Qatar Airways Group's acquisition of a 25% stake in Virgin Australia, strengthening Virgin's competitive position both domestically and internationally1. This strategic alliance was expected to enhance competition and capacity, leading to increased travel options and affordability2. The partnership also included sustainability initiatives and expanded connectivity through codeshare arrangements3 4. The ACCC's final approval was anticipated to bring significant economic benefits, including job growth and increased tourism5.