Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia Launch First Phase of Their Alliance

Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia have launched the first phase of their alliance, commencing an initial interline agreement and offering reciprocal lounge access to eligible customers.

From August 1, Singapore Airlines customers are able to connect to a range of Australian destinations served by Virgin Australia on one ticket, with terminal transfers, in-flight entertainment and meals included.

Reciprocal lounge access for eligible Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia customers is also now available. Singapore Airlines’ KrisFlyer Elite Gold and PPS Club members will have access to Virgin Australia’s six domestic lounges when travelling on Virgin Australia flights.

Virgin Australia’s Velocity Gold members will also have access to Singapore Airlines-operated lounges in 14 cities when travelling with Singapore Airlines.

“From today, customers can experience the first benefits of this landmark agreement with Virgin Australia, in line with our shared plans for a deep and integrated alliance providing seamless service offerings,” says Mak Swee Wah, Singapore Airlines’ executive vice president commercial.

This is the new logo that the Virgin Australia Group has adopted since it renamed itself from the Virgin Blue Group

The alliance will be positive for tourism in Australia, according to Merren McArthur, Virgin Australia Group executive.

“Today’s interline agreement will make it easier for Singapore Airlines’ customers from all over the world to travel through to a range of domestic and regional destinations around Australia,” says McArthur. “Should our proposed alliance receive regulatory approval, we will expand our cooperation to better promote these Australian destinations to a whole range of additional cities throughout Asia.”

Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia announced plans in June for a wide-ranging partnership, under which the airlines propose to:

● Codeshare on each other’s international and domestic flights;

● Offer reciprocal frequent flyer programme benefits and lounge access;

● Co-ordinate schedules between Singapore and Australia and beyond to provide seamless connections; and

● Engage in joint sales, marketing and distribution activities.

Subject to regulatory approvals, customers should be able to experience the full benefits of the alliance from late this year, according to Singapore Airlines.