Virgin Australia has officially returned to long-haul international flying, with today’s launch of its inaugural Sydney–Doha service.
Marking a major milestone for the airline, the new route links Australian travellers to over 170 destinations across Europe, the Middle East and Africa via Qatar Airways’ global hub in Doha.
And the Sydney-Doha service is just the start, with Brisbane flights commencing on 19 June, Perth kicking off on 26 June, and Melbourne to follow in December 2025.
Once all services are operational, the joint network will boost Australia–Doha capacity to 2.65 million seats annually, giving Aussie travellers more options (and it is hoped, cheaper fares) when heading to Europe, Africa or the Middle East.
Virgin Australia CEO Dave Emerson called it a pivotal moment for the airline and Australian travellers.
“Today marks the beginning of a new era for Virgin Australia and for international travel from Australia,” he remarked.
“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.”
Qatar comfort
Virgin passengers will fly the new route aboard Qatar Airways’ Boeing 777 aircraft, thanks to a wet-lease arrangement between the carriers. This gives passengers access to features like the Qsuite Business Class (named World’s Best Business Class in 2024 by Skytrax) and free high-speed Starlink wi-fi throughout their journey.
“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,” Qatar Airways Group CEO Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer said.
“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.”
According to Virgin Australia, the new service is expected to generate over $3 billion in economic activity for Australia across five years.
It’s also creating hundreds of new jobs in aviation, hospitality and tourism, while for VA employees, the partnership opens up international opportunities to gain long-haul experience within Qatar Airways’ global network.
For Frequent Flyers
Velocity Frequent Flyer members are also set to benefit from the new service, with Virgin unveiling a series of loyalty perks to celebrate the launch.
Members who book between 12 June and 30 June 2025 for travel between October 2025 and May 2026 on eligible Australia–Doha flights (VA1-29) can earn 50% bonus Status Credits. From October, Status Credits on these routes will count toward new requirements for maintaining or upgrading Velocity status.
Meanwhile, Silver, Gold and Platinum members will receive up to 100% bonus Velocity Points on eligible flights, with additional benefits like complimentary seat selection, extra baggage allowances and lounge access in Australia, Doha and Europe.
From 1 July 2025, Business Class upgrades using Points will also be available on Economy Flex fares.
To mark the occasion, Virgin Australia has launched special fares to Doha and select European destinations. The limited-time fares offer discounts of up to 15% for travel between 16 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. Bookings are open until 30 June 2025, unless sold out earlier. For more, visit virginaustralia.com.
Virgin Australia suspended long-haul flights in early 2020, before relaunching with a daily Cairns-Tokyo Haneda service in June 2023. However, the carrier cancelled the Japan route in February this year.
