Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways Secure Green Light For Partnership

Australian travellers are set to benefit from an expanded partnership between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways, as the Australian Government officially approves Qatar Airways Group’s minority 25% stake in Virgin Australia. This decision paves the way for deeper collaboration between the two airlines, unlocking new routes and increased competition in the Australian aviation market.

Qatar Airways Takes Minority Stake in Virgin Australia

Following the Federal Treasurer’s approval, Qatar Airways Group’s equity investment in Virgin Australia has received the green light from the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB). This milestone follows the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) Draft Determination on February 18, indicating an intention to authorise the airlines’ alliance, with final approval expected by March or April 2025.

With Qatar Airways acquiring a 25% stake, Virgin Australia gains access to the expertise and global network of one of the world’s leading carriers, strengthening its ability to compete in both domestic and international markets. Despite this new development, Bain Capital remains the majority shareholder, with Virgin Group and Queensland Investment Corporation retaining their shares.

Virgin Australia’s Return to Long-Haul Flying - Sort of

Pending final approval from the International Air Services Commission (IASC), Virgin Australia will resume long-haul operations in June 2025. New services from Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth to Doha will be launched, followed by Melbourne-Doha flights in December. Sadly, this does mean the Perth A380 flight to and from Doha will get axed in favour of a B777. These routes will be operated using wet-leased Qatar Airways aircraft—a wet lease means the lessor (Qatar Airways) provides the aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance, allowing Virgin Australia to quickly expand its long-haul services without needing to source its own wide-body fleet.

Virgin Australia We Lease Flights Will Feature Qsuite

Qantas has a similar although smaller arrangement with Finnair who operated Qantas marketed flights to and from Bangkok.

Virgin Australia has of course already been selling these flights since December 2024, and recently even release a huge drop of award seats in business and economy class.

These flights are expected to increase competition, drive down international airfares, and significantly boost the Australian visitor economy. Over the next five years, the partnership is projected to generate an estimated $3 billion in economic benefits.

Travellers booking Virgin Australia’s new flights to Doha will enjoy seamless connectivity to Qatar Airways’ extensive global network, covering over 100 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Frequent flyers will also benefit from enhanced points earning and redemption opportunities through Virgin Australia’s Velocity Frequent Flyer program and Qatar Airways’ Privilege Club.

Expanded Career Opportunities for Virgin Australia Crew

In addition to network expansion, the partnership brings exciting career growth opportunities for Virgin Australia’s pilots and cabin crew. Following discussions with unions and crew members, there has been strong interest in secondment opportunities with Qatar Airways, enabling staff to gain international experience while opening pathways for new hires at Virgin Australia.

The Future of Virgin Australia

With this investment, Virgin Australia is well-positioned for continued growth in the competitive Australian aviation market. From new long-haul services to greater international connectivity, this partnership is set to reshape air travel options for Australian passengers while injecting fresh competition into the industry.

For frequent flyers and aviation enthusiasts, this development is a game-changer—one that promises more choice, greater rewards, and a stronger, more globally connected Virgin Australia.