https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/tags/tag/virgin australia/ Virgin Australia News en Breaking Travel News Copyright 2026 2026-04-19T10:43:26+00:00 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/qatar-airways-group-and-virgin-australia-receive-final-go-ahead/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/qatar-airways-group-and-virgin-australia-receive-final-go-ahead/ Qatar Airways Group and Virgin Australia have received final go-ahead from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) for the airlines’ integrated alliance. This final determination officially signals the green light for Virgin Australia’s new 28 weekly flights between Australia and Doha – operated under a wet-lease with Qatar Airways – to proceed. Tue, 01 Apr 2025 07:19:07 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-and-qatar-airways-partnership-takes-off/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-and-qatar-airways-partnership-takes-off/ Australian travellers are set to benefit after a deeper strategic partnership between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways Group was given the green light by the Australian Government. Qatar Airways Group’s minority 25 per cent investment in Virgin Australia has now received Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) approval following the Federal Treasurer’s announcement today. This follows the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) Draft Determination on 18 February indicating its intention to authorise the airlines’ integrated alliance, with final approval expected in March/April 2025. Together, they help open the door to the airline’s return to long-haul international flying. Fri, 28 Feb 2025 07:16:48 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/qatar-airways-group-announces-intention-to-acquire-25-per-cent-minority-sta/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/qatar-airways-group-announces-intention-to-acquire-25-per-cent-minority-sta/ The existing partnership between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways will be strengthened with today’s announcement that Qatar Airways Group intends to acquire a minority 25% equity stake in Virgin Australia from Bain Capital (subject to FIRB approval). Qatar Airways is one of the world’s largest airlines and earlier this year was awarded the world’s best airline by Skytrax for the eighth time. Thu, 03 Oct 2024 06:07:55 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-orders-eight-embraer-e190-e2s/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-orders-eight-embraer-e190-e2s/ Virgin Australia has placed a firm order with Embraer for eight E190-E2 small narrowbody aircraft, as part of its fleet renewal plan. The order will see the E190-E2, the world’s most fuel-efficient single-aisle aircraft with the lowest noise emissions, complement the airline’s larger narrow bodies and replace its long-serving Fokker fleet. The order will be reflected in Embraer’s Q3 backlog and deliveries are scheduled to begin in the second half of 2025. Tue, 13 Aug 2024 06:24:46 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/videos/video/iata-agm-2024-interview-with-jayne-hrdlicka-ceo-virgin-australia/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/videos/video/iata-agm-2024-interview-with-jayne-hrdlicka-ceo-virgin-australia/ Mon, 03 Jun 2024 12:40:37 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/videos/video/iata-agm-2023-interview-with-jayne-hrdlicka-virgin-australia/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/videos/video/iata-agm-2023-interview-with-jayne-hrdlicka-virgin-australia/ Mon, 05 Jun 2023 13:08:25 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/qatar-airways-and-virgin-australia-celebrate-new-strategic-partnership/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/qatar-airways-and-virgin-australia-celebrate-new-strategic-partnership/ Qatar Airways and Virgin Australia have commenced a new strategic partnership overnight spanning 49 markets across Australia, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Thu, 08 Sep 2022 07:12:35 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/videos/video/iata-agm-2022-jayne-hrdlicka-ceo-virgin-australia/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/videos/video/iata-agm-2022-jayne-hrdlicka-ceo-virgin-australia/ Mon, 20 Jun 2022 09:54:43 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-expands-sabre-relationship-to-enable-optimized-pricing/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-expands-sabre-relationship-to-enable-optimized-pricing/ A new enhanced agreement will enbale Virgin Australia to use Sabre’s Dynamic Availability solution to identify ways to unlock greater value as the airline continues to scale up operations. Wed, 25 May 2022 10:40:28 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/qatar-airways-and-virgin-australia-unveil-new-strategic-partnership-at-arab/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/qatar-airways-and-virgin-australia-unveil-new-strategic-partnership-at-arab/ New agreement includes an expansive codeshare agreement and unparalleled loyalty partnership benefits offering Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways passengers unique rewards and seamless travel across both carriers’ networks. Increased travel options and benefits across 35 destinations in Australia for Qatar Airways passengers and to more than 140 destinations worldwide for Virgin Australia passengers Wed, 11 May 2022 13:49:43 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-selects-sabres-revenue-optimizer-to-modernize-its-retailin/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-selects-sabres-revenue-optimizer-to-modernize-its-retailin/ The Australian carrier will be using Sabre Revenue Optimizer to support decision-making with real-time data analytics as Australia welcomes back international travellers. Wed, 04 May 2022 10:40:31 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/sabre-renews-partnership-with-virgin-australia/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/sabre-renews-partnership-with-virgin-australia/ Sabre will continue to distribute Virgin Australia flights and services through the Sabre GDS marketplace, ensuring that Sabre-connected agencies will continue to have access to flights. Tue, 22 Jun 2021 08:09:44 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/scurrah-replaced-as-virgin-australia-as-bain-takes-over/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/scurrah-replaced-as-virgin-australia-as-bain-takes-over/ Paul Scurrah will depart his role as chief executive of Virgin Australia when the deal to sell the carrier to Bain Capital closes. The move is expected to come in early November. Thu, 15 Oct 2020 12:13:08 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-enters-voluntary-administration/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-enters-voluntary-administration/ Virgin Australia has entered voluntary administration as it seeks to recapitalise the business in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. In the mid-term, the company said it hopes to emerge in a stronger financial position on the other side of the Covid-19 crisis. Tue, 21 Apr 2020 07:52:30 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-atlantic-faces-collapse-without-government-support/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-atlantic-faces-collapse-without-government-support/ Virgin Atlantic could be in imminent danger of collapse without government support, founder Richard Branson has warned. The carrier is believed to be seeking £500 million from the UK government. Mon, 20 Apr 2020 12:17:24 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/australian-government-offers-emergency-funds-to-airlines/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/australian-government-offers-emergency-funds-to-airlines/ Qantas and Virgin Australia have been offered $A165 by the Australian government to ensure they maintain key domestic routes across the country. Both carriers have suspended the majority of operations in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Fri, 17 Apr 2020 09:35:50 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-orders-ten-737-max-10-planes-from-boeing/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-orders-ten-737-max-10-planes-from-boeing/ Boeing and the Virgin Australia Group have revealed the airline is adding the largest member of the 737 MAX family to its growing single-aisle fleet. Thu, 30 Aug 2018 07:31:36 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-atlantic-and-virgin-australia-extend-codeshare-partnership/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-atlantic-and-virgin-australia-extend-codeshare-partnership/ Virgin Atlantic and Virgin Australia have announced the expansion of their new codeshare agreement, creating more travel options between the UK and Australia. The joint Virgin codeshare provides significant customer benefits - encompassing all the destinations they want to travel to in one booking with a single check in and bag drop. Tue, 01 May 2018 09:29:54 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-signs-gategroup-catering-partnership/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-signs-gategroup-catering-partnership/ Virgin Australia has announced a long-term relationship with Gate Gourmet, the airline catering brand of gategroup, which will see the caterer become the sole service provider for the major airline. Fri, 16 Feb 2018 09:54:55 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-atlantic-signs-codeshare-deal-with-virgin-australia/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-atlantic-signs-codeshare-deal-with-virgin-australia/ Virgin Atlantic and Virgin Australia have announced a new codeshare agreement, creating more travel options between the UK and Australia – and giving customers the opportunity to travel around the world purely on Virgin airlines. Fri, 22 Dec 2017 10:53:04 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-sabre-branded-fares/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-sabre-branded-fares/ Virgin Australia has implemented Sabre Branded Fares, joining a growing list of airlines globally. The solution allows travel agents and online travel agents using the Sabre global distribution system to access enhanced branded fare functionality that simplifies the retailing of Virgin Australia’s full-service benefits. Tue, 17 Oct 2017 08:39:54 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/take-off-for-hong-kong-airlines-and-virgin-australia-codeshare-deal/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/take-off-for-hong-kong-airlines-and-virgin-australia-codeshare-deal/ The inaugural codeshare flight between Hong Kong Airlines and Virgin Australia took off from Melbourne, Australia and touched down the Hong Kong International Airport earlier, marking both airlines’ cooperation under a strategic alliance that they announced early this year. Fri, 07 Jul 2017 10:16:01 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-signs-amadeus-partnership/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-signs-amadeus-partnership/ Amadeus and Virgin Australia have signed a new multi-year agreement, extending their longstanding partnership. The new agreement provides Amadeus travel agents with worldwide continued access to Virgin Australia’s full range of fares, seats and schedules under the same conditions as that offered through all other channels. Tue, 15 Mar 2016 12:27:02 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-becomes-latest-travelport-partner/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-becomes-latest-travelport-partner/ Travelport has signed a new long term agreement signed with Virgin Australia for global distribution, enhanced with its Rich Content & Branding solution. Virgin Australia will be able to utilise this innovative feature that enables airlines to market and retail their products more effectively by determining how their products are visually presented and described to travel agents. Mon, 03 Aug 2015 06:12:30 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-renews-agreement-with-sabre/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-renews-agreement-with-sabre/ Virgin Australia has renewed its technology agreement and widened the scope of its relationship with Sabre. The deal expands the airlines’ SabreSonic agreement. SabreSonic is an integrated suite of applications that optimizes and automates core processes such as Reservations, Inventory and Departure Control enabling airlines to offer a differentiating customer experience. Sat, 25 Jul 2015 09:17:08 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/etihad-airways-boosts-stake-in-virgin-atlantic/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/etihad-airways-boosts-stake-in-virgin-atlantic/ Etihad Airways – considered the World’s Leading Airline by the World Travel Awards has upped its stake in Virgin Australia to the maximum allowed by the Foreign Investment Review Board in Australia. The Abu Dhabi based carrier now holds a 22.9 per cent stake after spending another AU$28.34 million last week. Wed, 26 Nov 2014 11:26:30 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-buys-out-tiger-airways/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-buys-out-tiger-airways/ The transaction, once completed, will see Virgin Australia secure 100 per cent ownership and full control of Tigerair Australia and brings to a conclusion the joint venture between Virgin Australia and Tiger Holdings which commenced in July last year. As part of the proposed acquisition, Virgin Australia will secure the brand rights to fly Tigerair Australia to a number of short-haul international destinations, providing new growth opportunities for the business. Sun, 19 Oct 2014 07:04:51 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-reveals-new-business-cabin/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-reveals-new-business-cabin/ Virgin Australia has unveiled a major redesign of the Business Class and Premium Economy cabins on board its wide-body fleet of aircraft. Sat, 27 Sep 2014 07:48:41 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/ash-cloud-halts-australia-flights/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/ash-cloud-halts-australia-flights/ Hundreds of passengers are facing travel disruption after a volcanic eruption in Indonesia sent ash clouds over the region, forcing airlines to cancel flights to and from Northern Australia. Sat, 31 May 2014 09:00:29 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-partners-with-sabre/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-partners-with-sabre/ Sabre is now selling Virgin Australia’s Extra Legroom Seats, pre-paid bags and unaccompanied traveler ancillaries in the Sabre global distribution system. Sat, 19 Apr 2014 07:00:08 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-high-flyer-passport/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-high-flyer-passport/ Virgin Australia today launched the ‘High Flyer Passport’, a new initiative designed to recognise Australia’s youngest flyers. Wed, 16 Apr 2014 23:30:38 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-new-lounge-in-sydney/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-new-lounge-in-sydney/ Virgin Australia is celebrating the official launch of its new flagship Sydney lounge by offering race-goers a unique Melbourne Cup Carnival Hat Valet service. Mon, 04 Nov 2013 23:30:37 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/etihad-airways-boosts-stake-in-virgin-australia/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/etihad-airways-boosts-stake-in-virgin-australia/ Etihad Airways has confirmed its equity stake in Virgin Australia Holdings has reached 19.9 per cent. This follows a series of on-market purchases of Virgin Australia shares over recent weeks. Thu, 10 Oct 2013 11:08:44 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-to-set-up-new-adelaide-base/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-to-set-up-new-adelaide-base/ Virgin Australia will set up a new Adelaide base for cabin crew, bringing up to 80 new jobs to South Australia. Virgin Australia chief customer officer Mark Hassell said the move highlighted Adelaide as an important market for Virgin Australia’s domestic operations. Sun, 22 Sep 2013 10:27:41 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-unveils-the-future-of-in-flight-entertainment/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-unveils-the-future-of-in-flight-entertainment/ Virgin Australia has officially launched its new wireless in-flight entertainment system, representing a new era in the way travellers experience entertainment in the sky. The entertainment platform is the first of its kind in the Asia Pacific region, giving customers the ability to stream content to their own devices, including smartphones, laptops and tablets, through in-built wireless technology on board. Wed, 18 Sep 2013 23:30:37 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-new-codeshare-and-frequent-flyer-agreement-with-a/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-new-codeshare-and-frequent-flyer-agreement-with-a/ Virgin Australia has announced a reciprocal codeshare and frequent flyer agreement with airberlin, Germany’s second largest airline. Available for sale today for travel from August 1st 2013, subject to government approval, Virgin Australia will codeshare on airberlin’s daily direct services from Abu Dhabi to Dusseldorf and Berlin. Tue, 16 Jul 2013 23:30:17 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-and-delta-air-lines-expand-codeshare-to-mexico/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-and-delta-air-lines-expand-codeshare-to-mexico/ Virgin Australia and Delta Air Lines have announced they will expand their partnership enabling Australians to travel to Mexico. Customers of both airlines will now be able to fly from Australia to six different cities in Mexico on one ticket as part of the alliance’s continued commitment to strengthening its offering. Wed, 03 Jul 2013 23:30:46 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-appoints-judith-crompton-as-chief-commercial-officer/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-appoints-judith-crompton-as-chief-commercial-officer/ Virgin Australia today announced the appointment of Judith Crompton to the newly created role of Chief Commercial Officer. Thu, 23 May 2013 18:00:45 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/etihad-encourages-brits-to-journey-down-under/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/etihad-encourages-brits-to-journey-down-under/ For the first time, Tourism Australia, Virgin Australia and Etihad Airways have partnered on a national advertising campaign inviting British holidaymakers to travel on the Etihad Skypass. The £870,000 campaign, which runs UK-wide throughout May, uses Tourism Australia’s ‘There’s nothing like Australia’ global creative and includes multi-channel TV and online advertising, directing consumers to find out more on the official website.  Sun, 05 May 2013 04:26:45 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-and-air-new-zealand-launch-direct-link-between-christchurc/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-and-air-new-zealand-launch-direct-link-between-christchurc/ Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia announced today they will become the first airlines to offer a direct service between Perth and the New Zealand city of Christchurch in over 20 years. The twice weekly non-stop service will operate through the peak demand period from December 2013 until late April 2014. Wed, 24 Apr 2013 08:14:47 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/singapore-airlines-increases-stake-in-virgin-australia/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/singapore-airlines-increases-stake-in-virgin-australia/ Singapore Airlines has agreed to acquire another 9.9 per cent of Virgin Australia in a move that will increase its stake to 19.9 per cent. The stake will be acquired through the purchase of shares held by the Virgin Group. Wed, 24 Apr 2013 07:33:58 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/etihad-airways-trumpets-success-of-equity-alliance-strategy/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/etihad-airways-trumpets-success-of-equity-alliance-strategy/ Etihad Airways today heralded a successful first year of its equity alliance strategy, after a financial reporting season which saw each of the five airlines within the alliance – airberlin, Air Seychelles, Virgin Australia, Aer Lingus and Etihad Airways – announce profitable performance. The airlines’ individual and collective results were boosted by a number of measures, including growing codeshare traffic between their networks, successful joint sales and marketing efforts, and a range of increasing business and cost synergies. Wed, 20 Mar 2013 08:12:01 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-announces-new-service-between-brisbane-and-bundaberg/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-announces-new-service-between-brisbane-and-bundaberg/ Virgin Australia today announced that it will commence flights between Brisbane and Bundaberg on 4 May 2013. Tue, 26 Feb 2013 23:30:51 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-wins-approval-to-acquire-skywest/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-wins-approval-to-acquire-skywest/ Virgin Australia has won regulatory approval from the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission to acquire regional carrier Skywest. Under the agreement, Skywest will become part of the Virgin Australia brand but will continue to operate under its current Air Operator Certificate with its own management team, based in Western Australia. Mon, 04 Feb 2013 07:49:38 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/travelport-signs-up-virgin-australia/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/travelport-signs-up-virgin-australia/ Travelport, the business services provider to the global travel industry, has announced a new full content agreement with Virgin Australia. Under the new agreement, Travelport-connected travel agents worldwide have access to Virgin Australia’s full published inventory, including both public and private fares. The new agreement takes immediate effect. Thu, 24 Jan 2013 11:02:02 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/singapore-airlines-expands-virgin-australia-codeshare-deal/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/singapore-airlines-expands-virgin-australia-codeshare-deal/ Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia have announced the expansion of their codeshare agreement to cover further destinations in Australia, Asia and Europe. Codesharing has been extended with immediate effect to all of Virgin Australia’s domestic destinations, offering SIA customers access to 32 Australian cities. Wed, 21 Nov 2012 09:54:09 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-announces-aagreement-to-acquire-stake-in-tiger-australia/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-announces-aagreement-to-acquire-stake-in-tiger-australia/ Virgin Australia has announced it has entered into a share purchase agreement to acquire 60 per cent of Tiger Airways Australia. Virgin will take the stake from Tiger Airways Holdings in a deal valued at AUD35 million. Fri, 02 Nov 2012 08:15:58 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/singapore-airlines-takes-stake-in-virgin-australia/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/singapore-airlines-takes-stake-in-virgin-australia/ Singapore Airlines is to acquire a ten per cent stake in Virgin Australia in an agreement that will further strengthen ties between the two partner airlines. The strategic stake will be acquired through a placement of new shares by Virgin Australia Holdings. Tue, 30 Oct 2012 12:19:34 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/etihad-airways-increases-stake-in-virgin-atlantic/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/etihad-airways-increases-stake-in-virgin-atlantic/ Etihad Airways has confirmed its equity stake in Virgin Australia Holdings has now reached ten per cent. This represents 221 million shares which have been bought on the open market over recent months. Mon, 03 Sep 2012 09:07:02 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-announces-major-enhancements-to-transcontinental-perth-ser/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-announces-major-enhancements-to-transcontinental-perth-ser/ Virgin Australia today announced major enhancements for guests flying from Australia’s East Coast1 to Perth, offering more internationally configured wide-bodied aircraft, increased frequencies and inclusive catering. Tue, 21 Aug 2012 18:00:16 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-cabin-crew-sent-back-to-school/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-cabin-crew-sent-back-to-school/ Cabin crew at Virgin Australia are being ordered to take classes in etiquette, posture and language in order to improve service on the airline. The decision is part of a wider strategy from the airline designed to take on Qantas as the airline of choice for business-class passengers. Mon, 23 Jul 2012 09:16:07 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-mobile-boarding-passes-and-new-flight-specials-ap/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-mobile-boarding-passes-and-new-flight-specials-ap/ Sydney, Australia: Virgin Australia today announced two initiatives designed to enhance the guest travel experience; the Virgin Australia Flight Specials app for iPhone and ‘mobile boarding passes’ across all mainline ports for domestic travel. Wed, 11 Jul 2012 18:00:23 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-places-order-for-23-boeing-737-max-8-aircraft/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-places-order-for-23-boeing-737-max-8-aircraft/ Virgin Australia has announced an agreement with Boeing to order 23 Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, the first in Australia. To align with its current capacity plan for the next three years, Virgin Australia has also delayed the delivery of some of its Boeing 737NG aircraft to after 2016, leaving 31 scheduled deliveries of Boeing 737-800 aircraft between 2013 and 2016. Thu, 05 Jul 2012 09:02:48 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-appoints-group-executive-sales/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-appoints-group-executive-sales/ Virgin Australia today announced the appointment of Judith Crompton to the newly created role of Group Executive Sales at Virgin Australia, commencing 1 August 2012. Wed, 27 Jun 2012 18:00:13 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/etihad-airways-equity-stake-in-virgin-australia-reaches-4.99/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/etihad-airways-equity-stake-in-virgin-australia-reaches-4.99/ Etihad Airways’ equity stake in Virgin Australia Holdings has now reached 4.99 per cent, the Abu Dhabi-based airline has confirmed. The company remains interested in “building a larger stake over time”, Etihad said earlier, but will only do so after receiving the necessary regulatory approvals. Wed, 06 Jun 2012 11:24:06 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/etihad-airways-confirms-3.96-stake-in-virgin-australia/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/etihad-airways-confirms-3.96-stake-in-virgin-australia/ Etihad Airways has confirmed that it has acquired a 3.96 per cent stake in Virgin Australia Holdings. The stake has been built over recent weeks, through purchases on the open market. Tue, 05 Jun 2012 09:47:58 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-australian-first-biodiesel-trial/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-australian-first-biodiesel-trial/ In a first for an Australian airline, Virgin Australia has launched a trial of environmentally-friendly biodiesel in its ground service equipment. Sun, 20 May 2012 08:00:39 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-hong-kong-codeshare-on-sale/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-hong-kong-codeshare-on-sale/ Virgin Australia has commenced sales of its new codeshare to Hong Kong with Virgin Atlantic for travel, operating directly from Sydney to Hong Kong. Sat, 21 Apr 2012 15:00:38 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-b777-cabins-get-makeover/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-b777-cabins-get-makeover/ Virgin Australia has revealed the stylish new design and interior refresh of the Boeing 777 fleet of aircraft. The re-design, which will see the complete re-design of seat fabrics, carpets and curtain dividers, will continue being rolled out accross the Boeing 777 fleet for the remainder of the year. Fri, 20 Apr 2012 15:08:48 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-first-flight-from-sydney-to-darwin/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-first-flight-from-sydney-to-darwin/ Virgin Australia will today take its inaugural flight from Sydney to Darwin with commercial guests on board. The direct service will be operated by a Boeing 737-800 aircraft named ‘Mindil Beach’; after Darwin’s iconic beach and will depart Sydney at 9.40am local time, arriving in at Darwin at 1.50pm local time. Thu, 05 Apr 2012 03:00:44 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-announces-proposed-new-structure/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-announces-proposed-new-structure/ Virgin Australia Holdings (VAH) today announced a proposed new structure of its business designed to ensure ongoing compliance with the Air Navigation Act (ANA) which limits foreign ownership of Australian international airlines to 49%. Tue, 28 Feb 2012 06:00:19 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/sia-starts-codesharing-on-virgin-australia-domestic-flights/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/sia-starts-codesharing-on-virgin-australia-domestic-flights/ Singapore Airlines is pleased to announce the start of codesharing on Australian domestic flights operated by alliance partner Virgin Australia. This will provide customers travelling to and from Australia with more travel options and seamless connections. Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:19:49 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-starts-daily-airbus-a330-services-from-melbourne/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-starts-daily-airbus-a330-services-from-melbourne/ Virgin Australia is commencing daily Airbus A330 services from Melbourne for the first time, with tickets going on sale today for flights to Perth and Sydney. Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:06:58 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-business-class-in-australia/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-business-class-in-australia/ Virgin Australia has launched Business Class on most domestic routes across the country. The offering includes new premium cabins with luxury leather seating and generous recline, a gourmet food and beverage service, as well as complimentary access to Virgin Australia’s lounges and priority security screening, check-in and boarding. Sat, 21 Jan 2012 12:01:59 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/singapore-airlines-and-virgin-australia-outline-first-steps-of-alliance/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/singapore-airlines-and-virgin-australia-outline-first-steps-of-alliance/ Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia have announced the first two milestones of their recently approved alliance: new international and domestic routes to Darwin and the launch of frequent flyer programme co-operation. As part of a joint plan to increase services to northern Australia, Singapore Airlines’ regional full service airline, SilkAir, will begin a four-times-weekly service between Singapore and Darwin from March 26th 2012, and Virgin Australia will complement these services with a daily service between Sydney and Darwin from April 2nd 2012 . Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:32:43 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-inks-deal-with-sabre/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-inks-deal-with-sabre/ Virgin Australia group of airlines has revealed it will transition to ticketed operations by introducing the new SabreSonic Customer Sales and Service (CSS) system; a next generation reservations system. This decision is a key step in its Game Change Program strategy of becoming the airline of choice in Australia. Sat, 03 Dec 2011 12:41:15 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/singapore-airlines-wins-final-approval-for-virgin-australia-link-up/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/singapore-airlines-wins-final-approval-for-virgin-australia-link-up/ Singapore Airlines has welcomed the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission’s approval of its proposed alliance with Virgin Australia. The ACCC’s determination represents the final regulatory approval needed for SIA and Virgin Australia to proceed with their wide-ranging alliance. Thu, 01 Dec 2011 10:36:56 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/hawaiian-airlines-and-virgin-australia-launch-codeshare-on-flights-to-hawai/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/hawaiian-airlines-and-virgin-australia-launch-codeshare-on-flights-to-hawai/ Hawaiian Airlines and Virgin Australia group of airlines have launched a new agreement that allows Virgin Australia’s international airline, V Australia, to codeshare on Hawaiian Airlines flights between Sydney and Honolulu Sun, 06 Nov 2011 16:00:35 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-introduces-business-class-on-key-routes/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-introduces-business-class-on-key-routes/ Virgin Australia has commenced the sale of business class seats on routes between Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane for travel from January 18th next year. The cut price business seats are seen by many as an attempt to cash in on the chaos as rival Qantas, which was forced to ground all flights over the weekend as part of an ongoing dispute with unions. Wed, 02 Nov 2011 15:44:18 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-links-with-singapore-airlines-for-codeshare-deal/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-links-with-singapore-airlines-for-codeshare-deal/ Officials at the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission have provisionally approved a codeshare agreement between Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia. Under the proposed alliance, the airlines will cooperate on all aspects of their Australia – Singapore services and any international and domestic connecting routes, including joint pricing and scheduling and joint marketing and sales. Fri, 14 Oct 2011 07:55:58 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-america-encourages-flyers-to-dump-their-old-airline/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-america-encourages-flyers-to-dump-their-old-airline/ Virgin America, the stylish, low-fare domestic airline, today rolls out a multi-media marketing campaign in Dallas-Fort Worth that invites local travelers to calculate their flying “fun gap” based on past legacy airline miles and make the switch to a “younger, hotter” airline – with an irresistible two-for-one flight offer.* Sat, 10 Sep 2011 19:45:13 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-new-velocity-frequent-flyer-program/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-launches-new-velocity-frequent-flyer-program/ Virgin Australia today launched the first stage of its new Velocity frequent flyer program, offering Australians global coverage, exciting new partners and Australia’s best flight rewards and benefits. Wed, 31 Aug 2011 04:38:04 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/one-step-forward-two-steps-back-engineers-at-qantas-to-strike/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/one-step-forward-two-steps-back-engineers-at-qantas-to-strike/ Officials at the Australian Licensed Aircraft Engineers Association in Australia have confirmed plans to take industrial action at Qantas following the announcement of job losses at the airline. Qantas confirmed as many as 1,000 employees would lost their jobs – principally through voluntary redundancy – as part of wide ranging reforms to the carrier outlined earlier this week. Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:37:00 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/orbitz-worldwide-inks-deal-with-virgin-australia/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/orbitz-worldwide-inks-deal-with-virgin-australia/ Orbitz Worldwide Inc. today announced a new partnership with Virgin Australia to power standalone hotel bookings on its Australian websites (www.vaustralia.com.au and www.virginaustralia.com). Tue, 12 Jul 2011 09:45:39 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-moves-in-to-tiger-airways-space/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-moves-in-to-tiger-airways-space/ In the cut throat world of aviation airlines rarely miss an opportunity to take advantage of a competitor’s misfortune, with Virgin Australia quick to maximise its advantage from the grounding of Tiger Airways. Also today, Air New Zealand confirmed tickets for its codeshare trans-Tasman alliance with Virgin Australia had gone live. Fri, 08 Jul 2011 16:58:02 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-partners-to-develop-unique-australian-bio-fuel/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-australia-partners-to-develop-unique-australian-bio-fuel/ Virgin Australia today announced that it has partnered with Renewable Oil Corporation (ROC), Dynamotive Energy Systems Corporation (DYMTF) and Future Farm Industries Co-operative Research Centre (FFI CRC) to develop a sustainable aviation biofuel that also has benefits for the Australian farming community and the environment. Thu, 07 Jul 2011 01:30:44 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-atlantic-pilots-vote-in-favour-of-strike-action/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/virgin-atlantic-pilots-vote-in-favour-of-strike-action/ Pilots at Virgin Atlantic have voted in favour of industrial action in a dispute over pay. The British Air Line Pilots’ Association (Balpa) confirmed 97 per cent of its members voted in favour of industrial action, from a ballot turnout of 94 percent, a result it said was “overwhelming”. Tue, 21 Jun 2011 15:19:35 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/further-ash-cloud-disruption-in-southern-australia/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/further-ash-cloud-disruption-in-southern-australia/ Virgin Australia and Qantas Airlines have both cancelled flights in Australia as aviation in the southern hemisphere continues to be affected by volcanic ash. All flights in to and out of Sydney and Melbourne have been cancelled for the next 48 hours as ash from the Puyehue-Cordon Caulle volcano in Chile circles the earth for the second time. Tue, 21 Jun 2011 10:17:42 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/singapore-airlines-establishes-long-term-alliance-with-virgin-australia/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/singapore-airlines-establishes-long-term-alliance-with-virgin-australia/ Singapore Airlines has signed a codeshare agreement with Virgin Australia, establishing a long-term alliance with the low-cost carrier. The deal brings Singapore Airlines – which was recognised by the World Travel Awards in 2010 as offering the World’s Leading Inflight Entertainment – closer to the Richard Branson owned Virgin Group. Tue, 07 Jun 2011 12:20:18 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/air-new-zealand-and-virgin-australia-announce-new-look-joint-network/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/air-new-zealand-and-virgin-australia-announce-new-look-joint-network/ Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia Airlines have today announced plans for their new-look joint trans-Tasman network, a key part of their new alliance. Mon, 16 May 2011 13:15:25 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/richard-branson-wins-10-battle-to-change-virgin-blue-name-to-virgin-austral/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/richard-branson-wins-10-battle-to-change-virgin-blue-name-to-virgin-austral/ Sir Richard Branson has won a ten-year battle to combine his three Australian carriers – Virgin Blue, V Australia and Pacific Blue – under one moniker, Virgin Australia. A previous ruling prevented him from using the “Virgin” name on aircraft that flew international routes. Thu, 05 May 2011 17:15:55 +0000