VIRGIN AUSTRALIA AND SINGAPORE AIRLINES LAUNCH PARTNERSHIP
Virgin Australia and Singapore Airlines launch partnership - Luxury Travel Magazine
| By: Alanna Bromley |
| Date: 2 August 2011 |
| Virgin Australia and Singapore airlines have commenced the first phase of an interline agreement that includes offering reciprocal lounge access to eligible customers. From 1 August, Singapore Airlines customers can connect to Australian destinations through Virgin Australia using one ticket, inclusive of terminal transfers, in-flight entertainment and meals. Singapore Airlines’ KrisFlyer Elite Gold and PPS Club members will also now have access to Virgin Australia’s six domestic lounges when travelling with Virgin Australia. Similarly, Virgin Australia’s Velocity Gold members will have access to Singapore Airlines-operated lounges in 14 cities when travelling with Singapore Airlines. “The partnership is already providing more travel options and greater convenience to our customers, and we look forward to offering even more benefits later this year,” Singapore Airlines’ Executive Vice President Commercial, Mr Mak Swee Wah said in a statement. The two airlines have lodged an application with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) that if approved would allow them to codeshare on each other’s flights (international and domestic), offer reciprocal frequent flyer programme benefits, coordinate schedules between Singapore and Australia and engage in joint sales, marketing and distribution activities. Virgin Australia Group Executive, Ms Merren McArthur, said the alliance would have a positive impact on tourism in Australia by providing guests with an expanded network of destinations, more convenience in flight schedules and greater opportunities to earn frequent flyer points. |