The new service connects Australian travellers to more than 170 destinations across Europe, the Middle East and Africa via Qatar Airways’ global network.
The launch represents a significant evolution of the airline’s partnership, with Brisbane flights commencing on June 19, Perth on June 26 and Melbourne services to follow in December.
“Today marks the beginning of a new era for Virgin Australia and for international travel from Australia,” said Dave Emerson, Virgin Australia Chief Executive Officer.
“Through our partnership with Qatar Airways, we’re not just launching a new route – we’re opening the world to millions of Australians, delivering more choice, better value and a seamless global experience.
“This partnership strengthens Australia’s global connectivity while generating jobs, boosting tourism and injecting billions into the national economy.”
By December the alliance will grow the capacity of flights from Australia to Doha to 2.65 million seats a year, increasing competitiveness in the market and providing ample choice for Aussie travellers wanting to visit Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
Passengers onboard the new Doha flights will travel on Qatar Airways’ Boeing 777 aircraft, featuring:
# Qsuite business class – named ‘World’s Best Business Class’ in Skytrax’s World Airline Awards 2024, offering private suites, lie-flat beds and the option for couples to create a double bed in the sky.
# Spacious economy cabins with one of the widest seats in the industry
# Complimentary high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi available onboard for all passenger through the entire journey.
The new services are expected to generate more than $3 billion in economic activity within Australia over the next five years, fuelled by an anticipated surge in international visitors and increased tourism spending.
The launch is also expected to create hundreds of new jobs in aviation, hospitality and tourism-related sectors across the country.
“We are delighted to welcome Virgin Australia’s inaugural Sydney to Doha service to our award-winning Hamad International Airport as the first of four exciting new routes scheduled for 2025,” said Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer.
“This milestone moment in the partnership between our two airlines is the culmination of many months of meticulous planning and tireless dedication of our respective teams, as well as a testament to our shared ambition to deliver increased competition, world-class service and value to Australian passengers.”
To commemorate the launch, Virgin Australia has unveiled limited-time celebration fares to Doha and selected beyond destinations in Europe, with eligible fares discounted by up to 15% for selected travel dates between October 16 and March 31, 2026.
The fares are on sale now until 11:59pm (AEST) June 30, unless sold out prior.
Images courtesy James D. Morgan from Getty Images.
