The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has granted interim authorisation to Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways to fly to Doha.
The decision will allow the airlines to sell 28 weekly return flights between Doha and key Australian cities: Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney. The new services are set to begin in June 2025.
This interim approval provides the airlines with the necessary time to undertake planning, marketing, and system alignments in preparation for the new routes. However, the ACCC has emphasised that final regulatory approval is still pending, and the services are subject to further scrutiny by the ACCC and other relevant government bodies.
“Affected customers will be given the option of a refund or re-accommodation on a suitable alternative flight at no additional charge and would not be out of pocket for any reasonably foreseeable costs if these proposed new services ultimately don’t get approved,” ACCC Deputy Chair Keogh said.
The ACCC is also reviewing concerns regarding the airlines’ wet lease arrangements and the proposed exclusivity of the partnership.
A draft determination is expected by February 2025. There was no mention of the ACCC’s stance on Qatar Airways’ proposed 25 pert cent stake purchase in Virgin Australia in today’s announcement.
Qatar to acquire minority 25% stake in Virgin Australia, with Doha flights planned
