Qatar Airways to Acquire 25% Stake in Virgin Australia

The deal aims to enhance competition with Qantas and expand international flight options, pending regulatory approval.

Qatar Airways plans to buy a 25% stake in Virgin Australia from Bain Capital for an undisclosed sum.
The acquisition is intended to increase Qatar Airways' access to the Australian market and offer more direct flights to Doha.
Virgin Australia will reintroduce long-haul routes to Doha from mid-2025, connecting to Qatar's international network.
The deal could rebalance Australia's air travel market, currently dominated by Qantas, and provide better value airfares for consumers.
Regulatory approval is required, and the agreement may face political scrutiny due to past controversies involving Qatar Airways.