Australians will be able to fly straight to Italy – via the UAE of course – now that Virgin Australia has teamed up with Italian airline, Alitalia.
The two carriers teamed up for a new codeshare agreement, which will allow Virgin Australia customers to book travel on Alitalia’s daily flights from Abu Dhabi to Rome and Milan Malpensa.
Subject to regulatory approval, Aussies will travel to the UAE on one of Virgin’s three weekly services from Sydney before swapping over to the Alitalia flights.
The Fiumicino-based carrier uses the Airbus A330 aircraft on flights from Abu Dhabi to Rome and the Boeing 777 on services to Milan.
Virgin’s Chief Commercial Officer, Judith Crompton, said the partnership is part of the carrier’s commitment to offering guests more choice.
“Like Virgin Australia, Alitalia has a commitment to superior customer service and a young fleet.”
Judith Crompton, Virgin Australia Chief Commercial Officer
“Members of our Velocity Frequent Flyer program and Alitalia’s MilleMiglia program will soon benefit from the partnership.
“We will continue to work closely with other international carriers to give our customers access to more destinations, more flights and more convenient schedules, as well as increased benefits for Velocity members.”
The new partnership with Virgin Australia is just one of the many changes to the Alitalia business over the past few years as part of its ‘rescue and reinvent‘ plan. Other adjustments include a new network, a new brand and new staff.