The Australian Government has officially approved Qatar Airways Group’s acquisition of Virgin Australia's 25% minority stake.
Virgin Australia is set to launch long-haul flights to Doha starting in June, that will further strengthen the connection between the two airlines, according to Qatar Airways' press-release.
Virgin Australia now awaits a decision from the International Air Services Commission (IASC) on what is an uncontested allocation of air rights for services between Australia and Qatar, due to commence in June.
Equity investment
Qatar Airways Group’s 25 per cent stake will provide Virgin Australia with access to the scale and expertise of a world-leading global airline, strengthening its ability to compete domestically and internationally and driving increased competition in Australian aviation.
Bain Capital, Virgin Group, and Queensland Investment Corporation will retain shareholdings in Virgin Australia.
Long-haul flying and integrated alliance
Subject to IASC approval, Virgin Australia will return to long-haul flying in June 2025, with flights from Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth to Doha. Flights from Melbourne to Doha are scheduled to commence in December 2025.
These flights will be operated utilising aircraft wet-leased from Qatar Airways. As well as enhancing competition and placing downward pressure on international airfares, these flights will provide a significant boost to the Australian visitor economy, including the tourism sector, generating an estimated $3 billion in economic value over the next five years.
“ Today we welcome a new era for Virgin Australia. Qatar Airways’ investment is a huge vote of confidence in our business and Australian aviation more broadly. It sets us up for long-term success and adds fuel to our bold transformation agenda," - said Virgin Australia Group Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Jayne Hrdlika. She noted this partnership will be beneficial for Australian consumers travelling to Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
"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,"- she added.
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