Singapore Airlines, Virgin Australia sign landmark long-term alliance deal

Manila Bulletin
By EDU LOPEZ
June 20, 2011, 2:33am

MANILA, Philippines — Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia group of airlines have signed a landmark agreement which will enable them to establish a long-term alliance.

Under the agreement, the two airlines agreed to codeshare on each other’s international and domestic flights; offer reciprocal frequent flyer program benefits and lounge access; coordinate schedules between Singapore and Australia and beyond to provide seamless connections; and engage in joint sales, marketing and distribution activities.

The alliance will connect Singapore Airlines’ extensive international network with Virgin Australia’s wide range of Australian and Pacific destinations.

Through the Singapore Airlines network, Virgin Australia customers will have access to some 70 more destinations, while through the Virgin Australia network Singapore Airlines customers will have access to some 30 more destinations.

Members of Singapore Airlines’ KrisFlyer frequent flyer program will be able to earn and redeem miles on Virgin Australia flights, while Virgin Australia’s Velocity members will be able to earn and redeem miles on Singapore Airlines-operated flights.

The two airlines will lodge an application with the relevant regulatory authorities to enable them to co-operate across a broad range of commercial functions.

Approval will allow the airlines to build a deep and integrated alliance with seamless service offerings to the travelling public.

Singapore Airlines CEO Goh Choon Phong said: “Singapore Airlines has been committed to the Australian market for more than 40 years and we are always looking for ways to serve our customers better."

"With regulatory approval, the partnership will enable us to offer even more choice for domestic and international air travel. Together with Virgin Australia we will provide the public with access to an enlarged network, offering a first rate, integrated travel experience.”

“The partnership presents a significant opportunity for Singapore Airlines to drive growth in a manner consistent with our focus on service excellence, product innovation and network connectivity. It will enhance the attractiveness of Australia as a travel destination while also opening up new horizons for travellers from Australia.”