A Singapore Airlines Airbus A330
A Singapore Airlines Airbus A330

BY JAMES WILKINSON

Virgin Australia’s tie-up with Singapore Airlines has been given the green light by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), paving the way for the start of codeshare flights by early next year.

“This is excellent news for Australian travellers as it provides our guests with access to around 70 additional destinations across Asia, India and Africa, with one of the best airlines in the world,” said Virgin Australia CEO, John Borghetti.

“The alliance will also be positive for tourism in Australia, as it will enable us to provide Singapore Airlines’ customers with seamless travel through to over 30 destinations around Australia and we will jointly promote these destinations,” he said.

It is expected that by the end of 2011, Virgin Australia and Singapore Airlines will offer reciprocal frequent flyer benefits, including lounge access, and redeeming points and status credits on each others’ flights.

The wide-ranging partnership will also see the airlines co-ordinate schedules between Australia and Singapore, and engage in joint sales, marketing and distribution activities.