Virgin Australia opens new flights to Qatar from Brisbane
Starting from Thursday, Virgin is launching flights from Brisbane to Doha's Hamad International Airport in conjunction with Qatar airways.
Virgin Australia chief executive Dave Emerson said the new flights 'mark the beginning of a new era' for the company and for international travel to Australia.
'Through our partnership with Qatar Airways, we're not just launching new routes – we're opening the world to millions of Australians, delivering more choice, better value and a seamless global experience,' he said.
'This partnership strengthens Australia's global connectivity while generating jobs, boosting tourism and injecting billions into the national economy.'
Hamad International Airport supports 48 airlines, and ushers millions of passengers through its terminals every month.
Queensland Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the new flights to Hamad would position the Sunshine State as a new gateway between Australia and the rest of the world.
'These new flights mean more tourists enjoying everything Queensland has to offer, giving visitors from all over the world affordable ways to reach our communities, boosting business for Queensland tourism operators,' he said.
About 2.65 million passengers are expected to be arriving in Doha from Australia annually by
this December, which Virgin says will increase 'competitiveness in the market and (provide) ample choice for Aussie travellers wanting to visit Europe, Africa and the Middle East'.
Brisbane Airport chief executive Gert-Jan de Graaff welcomed the new flights.
'This marks the most significant increase in capacity between Queensland and Europe in the past two years, and we're confident these new daily flights will boost tourism, strengthen international ties and support Queensland's exporters,' he said.
'It's fantastic news for the Brisbane-headquartered airline and even better news for travellers and Queensland's tourism-driven industry.'
Fares are available now for purchase, with some discounts ranging up to 15 per cent for select travel dates between October 16 and March 31 next year.
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