Virgin Australia to Launch Doha Flights in 2025
Virgin Australia is set to launch new flights to Doha’s Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Qatar starting June 2025, significantly enhancing connectivity between Australia and the Middle East. This expansion follows the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) temporary approval, enabling Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways to collaborate under an integrated alliance.
Beginning December 12, 2024, passengers can book Virgin Australia’s direct flights from Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD), Brisbane Airport (BNE), and Perth Airport (PER) to Doha. Later in 2025, Melbourne Airport (MEL) will also join the list of departure points. These flights will be operated using Qatar Airways’ state-of-the-art Boeing 777 aircraft, featuring the new QSuites Business Class seats, which offer enhanced comfort and luxury for travelers.
Virgin Australia’s new routes come with competitive launch fares, including:
Perth to Paris Economy return from AUD1,791 ($1,147.69)
Sydney to London Economy return from AUD1,982 ($1,270)
Brisbane to Rome Economy return from AUD1,945 ($1,246.38)
This partnership marks a significant milestone for Virgin Australia as it re-enters the long-haul international market after a four-and-a-half-year hiatus. The integrated alliance with Qatar Airways is designed to provide seamless connections to over 100 destinations worldwide through Qatar’s extensive network, thereby expanding travel options for Australian passengers.
The agreement between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways has received temporary authorization from the ACCC, with final approval expected in February 2025. Once approved, the partnership will allow Virgin Australia to operate 28 new weekly services to Doha, facilitating easier access for Australians traveling abroad.
Jayne Hrdlicka, CEO of Virgin Australia Group, emphasized the transformative impact of this partnership. “For Virgin Australia, this gives us the ability to start long-haul flying, which we have not been able to do over the past four and a half years. Our 28 new weekly services to Doha will open up a world of opportunity for those wanting to travel overseas, with more passengers able to connect to over 100 destinations around the world on Qatar’s network,” Hrdlicka stated.
She further highlighted the benefits of the alliance, noting that partnering with Qatar Airways will elevate the travel experience by delivering seamless connections and world-class service, while also fostering market competition to offer better value and fares. “Exploring the world has never been more accessible,” Hrdlicka added.
Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, CEO of Qatar Airways Group, also expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. “We are proud to support Virgin Australia with their ambition to return to long-haul international flying, a crucial next step in their successful transformation program,” he said. Al-Meer emphasized that, if approved, the investment will enable both airlines to achieve their shared goal of providing the best service and value to Australian customers.
The introduction of direct flights from major Australian cities to Doha will significantly enhance travel convenience, offering passengers efficient routes to Europe and other global destinations via Doha’s strategic hub. This development not only boosts Virgin Australia’s fleet and route offerings but also contributes to the broader growth and competitiveness of the Australian aviation sector.
As Virgin Australia prepares to launch these new services, the airline anticipates increased passenger demand and aims to provide superior travel options that align with modern travelers’ needs for connectivity, comfort, and affordability. The collaboration with Qatar Airways is expected to play a pivotal role in positioning Virgin Australia as a key player in the international aviation market.
With final approval from the ACCC anticipated in early 2025, Virgin Australia is on track to make a strong comeback in the long-haul segment, offering Australians more choices and better connectivity to the world.
Related News : https://airguide.info/?s=Virgin+Australia