Virgin Australia launched its inaugural Perth to Doha service today, 26 June, connecting Aussies to over 170 destinations through Qatar Airways’ network.
Departing from Perth, the new route unlocks seamless one-stop access to more than 170 global destinations via Qatar Airways’ extensive global network.
This launch represents a significant evolution of Virgin Australia and Qatar Airway’s’ partnership. With Sydney and Brisbane flights already underway and Melbourne services to follow in December, there is no better time to book that European holiday.
The Virgin Australia-Qatar Airways alliance brings together two aviation brands to deliver more choice to Australian consumers, with connectivity to six continents. The new Australia to Doha services will offer elevated service offerings, exceptional inflight amenities and loyalty benefits.
By December 2025, the alliance will grow the capacity of flights from Australia to Doha to 2.65 million seats a year, increasing competitiveness in the market and providing ample choice for Aussie travellers wanting to visit Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
Passengers onboard the new Doha flights will travel on Qatar Airways’ Boeing 777 aircraft, featuring:
- Qsuite Business Class – named World’s Best Business Class in Skytrax’s World Airline Awards 2025, offering private suites, lie-flat beds, and the option for couples to create a double bed in the sky4.
- Spacious Economy Cabins with one of the widest seats in the industry and renowned inflight service.
- Complimentary high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi available onboard for all passengers through the entire journey.
The new services are expected to generate more than $3 billion in economic activity within Australia over the next five years, fuelled by an anticipated surge in international visitors and increased tourism spending. The launch is also expected to create hundreds of new jobs in aviation, hospitality and tourism-related sectors across the country. For Virgin Australia employees, this also creates secondment opportunities for Pilots and Cabin Crew to broaden their skills and gain international flying experience within Qatar Airways’ world-class global network.
“These flights mark the beginning of a new era for Virgin Australia and for international travel from Australia,” Virgin Australia chief executive officer, Dave Emerson, said.
“Through our partnership with Qatar Airways, we’re not just launching new routes – we’re opening the world to millions of Australians, delivering more choice, better value and a seamless global experience. This partnership strengthens Australia’s global connectivity while generating jobs, boosting tourism and injecting billions into the national economy.”
“We are delighted to welcome Virgin Australia’s inaugural Perth to Doha service to our award-winning Hamad International Airport as the third of four exciting new routes scheduled for 2025,” Qatar Airways Group chief executive officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said.
“This milestone moment in the partnership between our two airlines is the culmination of many months of meticulous planning and tireless dedication of our respective teams, as well as a testament to our shared ambition to deliver increased competition, world-class service and value to Australian passengers.”
Velocity Frequent Flyer’s members will also be eligible for benefits when travelling on the new services.
Virgin Australia launches inaugural Sydney to Doha service with Qatar Airways
