Virgin Australia has revealed plans to reintroduce long-haul flights starting mid-2025. These services will connect key Australian cities to Doha, Qatar, marking a significant milestone since the airline discontinued its Los Angeles routes five years ago.
The flights will partner with Qatar Airways, providing Boeing 777 aircraft and crew. Additionally, Qatar Airways intends to acquire a 25% stake in Virgin Australia, pending regulatory approval.
An Alliance to Enhance Global Connectivity
This venture is part of a strategic alliance between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways, already provisionally approved by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). Travellers can look forward to seamless access to Qatar Airways’ extensive global network of over 100 destinations spanning Europe, the Middle East, and Africa via the airline’s hub in Doha.
The partnership aligns both carriers, increasing connectivity and offering a competitive alternative to existing operators on the Australia-Doha route.
Australia to Doha: Expanded Flight Schedules
Virgin Australia’s new flights will complement Qatar Airways’ existing services, effectively doubling daily options on several routes. Starting in June 2025, flights will operate from Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth to Doha, with Melbourne services following in December. Below is the detailed flight schedule:
Sydney – Doha
- VA1: Departs Sydney at 2:50 PM and arrives in Doha at 10:50 PM (Boeing 777).
- QR909 (VA6131): Departs Sydney at 8:45 PM and arrives in Doha at 4:55 AM (Airbus A380).
Doha – Sydney
- VA2: Departs Doha at 9:15 AM and arrives in Sydney at 6:15 AM (Boeing 777).
- QR908 (VA6130): Departs Doha at 10:05 PM and arrives in Sydney at 5:10 PM (Airbus A380).
Brisbane – Doha
- VA15: Departs Brisbane at 3:10 PM and arrives in Doha at 11:00 PM (Boeing 777).
- QR899 (VA6133): Departs Brisbane at 10:15 PM and arrives in Doha at 6:00 AM (Boeing 777 with Qsuites).
Doha – Brisbane
- VA16: Departs Doha at 1:40 AM and arrives in Brisbane at 10:45 PM (Boeing 777).
- QR898 (VA6132): Departs Doha at 8:25 PM and arrives in Brisbane at 5:30 PM (Boeing 777 with Qsuites).
Perth – Doha
- VA21: Departs Perth at 3:20 PM and arrives in Doha at 9:50 PM (Boeing 777).
- QR901 (VA6129): Departs Perth at 10:45 PM and arrives in Doha at 5:20 AM (Airbus A380).
Doha – Perth
- VA22: Departs Doha at 7:50 PM and arrives in Perth at 11:55 AM (Boeing 777).
- QR900 (VA6128): Departs Doha at 2:45 AM and arrives in Perth at 6:45 PM (Airbus A380).
Virgin Australia has yet to finalize timings for Melbourne-Doha flights.
Reward Options for Velocity Frequent Flyers
This new route presents excellent value for Velocity Frequent Flyer members. A one-way business class ticket from Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane to Doha costs 95,500 Velocity Points. For travellers departing from Perth, the shorter route requires only 71,500 points for a one-way business class seat.
Aircraft and Onboard Experience
Virgin Australia will operate these flights using Qatar Airways’ Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, configured with 354 to 412 seats. Some aircraft will feature Qatar Airways’ renowned Qsuite business class, offering private, lie-flat seating with enhanced amenities.
However, certain flights may use older configurations with less modern features. Passengers can also expect free, high-speed Wi-Fi powered by Starlink on select flights, adding to the overall travel experience.
Boosting Competition and Affordability
It is anticipated these additional flights will shake up the market. Doubling services on key routes will foster competition among airlines, which could translate to lower ticket prices. Virgin Australia is expected to launch these services with a promotional fare, enticing travellers to choose the new routes.
Lounge Access and Challenges
Business class passengers and elite Velocity members will benefit from lounge access at international terminals in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. Virgin Australia is currently finalizing arrangements to provide premium services at these locations. However, the partnership between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways will terminate Virgin’s longstanding agreement with Etihad Airways in June 2025.
Launch Coincides with the British and Irish Lions Rugby Tour
The mid-2025 launch coincides with the British and Irish Lions rugby tour, which is expected to attract over 40,000 visitors to Australia. With nine matches planned from June to August, these new flights aim to capitalize on heightened demand during this period.
A Step Forward for Virgin Australia
The partnership with Qatar Airways solidifies Virgin Australia’s commitment to expanding its global footprint. By aligning with one of the world’s leading airlines, Virgin enhances its offerings and increases its appeal to international travellers. With flights scheduled to launch soon and tickets expected to go on sale in December 2024, this development marks a new chapter for the airline and a significant benefit for Australian travellers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Flights from Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth to Doha will begin in June 2025, while Melbourne services will start in December 2025.
Virgin Australia will operate Boeing 777-300ER aircraft provided by Qatar Airways. These planes may include configurations with Qatar Airways’ renowned Qsuites in business class.
A one-way business class ticket costs 95,500 Velocity Points from Sydney, Brisbane, or Melbourne to Doha. For Perth-Doha, it’s 71,500 Velocity Points.
Yes, Virgin Australia is working on providing lounge access for premium passengers and Velocity frequent flyers at international terminals in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth.
The partnership provides seamless access to Qatar Airways’ network of over 100 global destinations, earning and redeeming Velocity Points, and additional flight options.
Tickets are expected to go on sale in December 2024, ahead of the flight launch in mid-2025.
