Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways have had a win on their proposal to commence 28 flights between Doha and four Australian cities.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is proposing to grant approval for the two airlines to form a five year alliance to operate the flights.
Virgin and Qatar are seeking the green light to form a partnership that would introduce new weekly return flights between Doha and four Australian cities—Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne.
As part of the plan, Virgin Australia would operate these flights using Qatar Airways’ aircraft and crew, a practice known in the aviation industry as a “wet lease.” On the other hand, a dry lease is where the aircraft alone is provided.
“We consider that the proposed cooperative conduct would likely result in several public benefits, including providing enhanced products and services for air travellers which would include increased choice of international flights with additional connectivity, convenience, and loyalty program benefits for consumers,” ACCC commissioner Anna Brakey said.
