Business | Aviation
Etihad-Virgin Blue network approved
Alliance opens more than 100 destinations
- By Kevin Scott, Staff Reporter
- Published: 00:00 September 24, 2010
Abu Dhabi: Etihad Airways has been given the green light to launch a new flight network with Virgin Blue.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has approved the alliance, which will cover more than 100 global destinations when services commence on October 1. The news comes just over a week after Qantas, Australia's largest carrier, attempted to block the deal amid concerns of price-fixing on the Abu Dhabi-Australia route.
James Hogan, Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer, said: "The ACCC decision to grant interim approval for this strategic alliance is clearly fantastic news for both Etihad and Virgin Blue and one we welcome wholeheartedly.
"Most significantly, however, it is air travellers around the world who have the most to gain from the partnership... able to earn and redeem frequent flyer miles for any Etihad or Virgin Blue flight." The alliance will open up 45 new destinations in Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific islands, and the west coast of America to Etihad customers.
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