Virgin Australia ups Perth ante

Virgin Australia will ramp up its services to Perth from the East Coast with the implementation of more internationally configured wide-bodied aircraft, additional frequencies and inclusive catering.

The carrier’s fifth Airbus A330 aircraft will enter into service on September 21, with all services between Melbourne and the WA capital to be operated by the internationally configured aircraft. The A330s will continue to serve three of the four daily services between Sydney and Perth.

Additional frequencies will be added on the Brisbane-Perth route taking it to three weekday services to be operated by Boeing 737-800 aircraft fitted with the airline’s business class product.

Meanwhile, all guests in economy services from the East Coast to Perth will receive a hot meal, beverages and inflight entertainment from September 26.

Group executive alliances Merren McArthur said the “major enhancements” represented significant part of the airline’s strategy to become “the airline of choice in Australia”.

“We have listened to our guests and we understand that consistency of product and services, a competitive schedule and inclusive catering and entertainment make a real difference on these longer journeys,” she said.

The airline recently expanded its Perth lounge to double seat capacity.