Virgin Australia has signed a new codeshare agreement with Link Airways that will expand their regional footprint by around 45 percent. Under the agreement, over 90 weekly codeshare flights will be operated by Link Airways.
On Thursday (January 18, 2024), Virgin Australia announced the signing of a new codeshare agreement with Link Airways that will expand their regional footprint by approximately 45 percent. Under the partnership, 17 new regional codeshare destinations will be operated by Link Airways, or around 90 weekly flights, and will be added to Virgin Australia’s domestic network. Codeshare flights are now available for booking through travel agents, and will be available for direct booking on the Virgin Australia website from March 2024. Link Airways operates a fleet of 14 aircraft, and their service includes complimentary tea, coffee and water.
In Thursday’s announcement, Virgin Australia’s Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, Alistair Hartley, said,
“Today’s announcement in partnership with Link Airways underscores our commitment to delivering great value, flexibility and choice to Australians, and boosting connections for customers living in regional Australia. Importantly, the partnership is also set to support regional trade and tourism in destinations like Inverell, Wollongong and Biloela, which are not currently serviced by any other major airline.
“Together, our networks will be operating up to 365 daily flights across Australia, offering 42 domestic destinations for guests to explore, all while ensuring guests can enjoy seamless connectivity and loyalty benefits under our award-winning Velocity Frequent Flyer program when they travel.”
Also commenting on the new codeshare partnership, Link Airways’ CEO, Andrew Major, said,
“Link Airways is very pleased to join Virgin Australia in announcing this codeshare agreement which will provide significant additional travel opportunities to passengers Australia-wide, particularly those in regional areas. Benefits will include better connectivity and more choice for regional customers thanks to Virgin Australia’s expansive route network.”
The new partnership also brings added benefits to nearly 12 million Velocity Frequent Flyer members, who can now earn both Points and Status credits on Virgin Australia codeshare flights operated by Link Airways. Additionally, Velocity Silver, Gold and Platinum members will earn bonus Points and receive an additional baggage when traveling on any Link Airways flight operating in codeshare with Virgin Australia. Eligible Velocity members can also access Virgin Australia lounges when traveling on these codeshare services.
Fort the first time, Virgin Australia customers can now travel to 42 Australian destinations on a single booking, with through check-in and baggage, including destinations not served by any other major airline such as Inverell, Wollongong and Biloela.
Source: Virgin Australia