Singapore Airlines & Virgin Australia to share services
Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia launched the first phase of their alliance on August 1 as a prelude to an even stronger alliance once government approval is forthcoming.
From today, eligible passengers on either airline have reciprocal lounge access and Singapore Airlines passengers 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.
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,” said Singapore Airlines’ executive VP commercial, Mak Swee Wah.
“Our customers can now travel to and from all corners of Australia on a single ticket, with full-service comfort on all legs of their journey. 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.”
Virgin Australia group executive Merren McArthur said the alliance would also be positive for tourism in Australia.
“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. 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.
“By working closely with Singapore Airlines, we will be able to offer a deep and integrated alliance that ultimately benefits the travelling public. Guests will enjoy an expanded network of destinations, seamless connections, a more convenient flight schedule and more opportunities to earn frequent flyer points and access lounges,” Ms McArthur added.
Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia lodged an application with the ACCC in June 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.
Engage in joint sales, marketing and distribution activities.
The ACCC is currently reviewing submissions from interested parties in relation to the proposed alliance. Subject to regulatory approvals in Australia and Singapore, customers should be able to experience the full benefits of the alliance from late this year, the airlines said in media statements.
Meanwhile, it was reported during the weekend that Virgin Australia’s main competitor – and Singapore Airlines’ nemesis – Qantas will not be objecting to the proposed tie-up, potentially clearing the way for a faster decision by the ACCC.