Australian Government approves Qatar Airways 25% stake in Virgin Australia
Australia's Government approved (27-Feb-2025) Qatar Airways Group's minority 25% stake in Virgin Australia, supporting the carrier's return to long haul international operations. The stake acquisition is set to strengthen Virgin's ability to compete domestically and internationally, as well as drive increased competition in the Australian aviation market. This follows the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's (ACCC) draft determination on 18-Feb-2025 indicating its intention to authorise the transaction. Virgin Australia CEO Jayne Hrdlicka stated: "Being backed by one of the world's largest airlines now gives us the scale and access to industry expertise which will support continued growth in line with the market domestically, improve our ability to compete for key segments of the market and add momentum to our margin ambitions". Bain Capital, Virgin Group and Queensland Investment Corporation will retain shareholdings in the airline. [more - original PR]
Background ✨
The Australian Government approved Qatar Airways' 25% stake in Virgin Australia, aiming to enhance competition and boost the Australian economy1. Virgin Australia sought regulatory approval for a strategic partnership with Qatar Airways, which included launching 28 new weekly services between Australian cities and Doha2. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission granted interim authorisation for cooperative conduct under an integrated alliance3, while Virgin Australia has applied for capacity on services to Qatar, highlighting benefits such as increased competition and connectivity4.