‘Greater access’: Virgin Australia to reach international network thanks to new stake

The Australian Aviation Writer Robyn Ironside claims airline giant Virgin Australia will have “greater access” to its international network because of its newly announced partnership with Qatar Airways. Ms Ironside’s comments follow Qatar Airways' announcement of taking a 25 per cent stake in Virgin Australia. “Virgin Australia is saying it essentially will give them the ability to compete more effectively with Qantas,” Ms Ironside told Sky News Australia. “They know that an international network is very important to an airline’s success. “This partnership with Qatar Airways will give them greater access to their international network and also allow Virgin Australia to reenter the long-haul international market itself.”