Virgin Australia Secures Qatar Airways Partnership to Expand International Routes

The federal government has approved Qatar Airways' 25% stake in Virgin Australia, promising increased competition, job creation, and more affordable airfares.

Virgin Australia, with Qatar Airways' 25% stake, will launch 28 new weekly return flights between Doha and major Australian cities starting mid-2025.
The partnership is expected to boost competition in the aviation sector, potentially reducing airfares and benefiting Australian travelers and tourism businesses.
The federal government imposed conditions on the deal, including Australian representation on Virgin's board and commitments to protect jobs and customer data.
A secondment program will provide training for Australian pilots and cabin crew in Doha, creating additional domestic job opportunities.
Qantas, which previously opposed increased competition, has welcomed the deal, while unions remain cautious about labor standards under the agreement.

Australian Broadcasting Corporation

The Sydney Morning Herald

The Guardian