There’s been another spin of the airline merry-go-round with Etihad Airways ending its codeshare and frequent flyer partnership with Virgin Australia.
The move follows Virgin’s plans to buddy up with Qatar Airways as their exclusive airline partner in the Middle East, although this alliance is yet to be ratified by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
A statement issued late last night by Etihad said, “the decision reflects a divergence in the strategic direction of the respective airlines.” The alliance between the two airlines will officially come to an end on June 1, 2025.
“As a result, when the termination takes effect passengers will no longer be able to book Virgin Australia-operated flights through Etihad’s booking channels,” the statement continued.
“For Etihad customers with existing bookings that include a Virgin Australia-operated segment, there will be no changes to their itineraries.”
Etihad said it remained dedicated to serving Australia and will increase its flights to Sydney and Melbourne in the summer of 2025.
Qatar Airways recently announced plans to acquire a 25 per cent minority stake in the Australian carrier, leading to VA’s return to long-haul international routes by mid-2025.
“This partnership brings the missing piece to Virgin Australia’s longer-term strategy and is a huge vote of confidence in Australian aviation,” said Jane Hrdlicka, CEO of Virgin Australia, at the time of the Qatar announcement.
“Importantly, it will further strengthen Virgin Australia’s ability to compete over the long term.”
Aviation experts predict that if approved this investment will herald the much-anticipated return of Virgin Australia into public ownership.
