Loyalty program Velocity members can now earn points and status credits on eligible Qatar Airways flights, including those operated with a VA flight number. This partnership offers benefits such as lounge access for Velocity Gold and Platinum members, priority check-in, and additional baggage allowances across both networks. The collaboration marks a significant enhancement in the travel experience for frequent flyers of both airlines.
The announcement comes as Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways strengthen their alliance to provide a seamless travel experience. Velocity members can now enjoy Qatar Airways’ renowned Qsuite, a business class cabin that offers unparalleled privacy and comfort.
The Qsuite Experience
The Qsuite, available on select Boeing 777 and all A350-1000 aircraft, features a 1-2-1 configuration. Each seat is housed within its own cubicle, complete with a high sliding door that creates a private, cocoon-like space. This innovative design has been around for eight years, but it’s now bookable through Virgin Australia for the first time.
Passengers in Qsuite can expect a supremely peaceful journey, despite the occasional surprise of flight attendants appearing over the high doors. The seats offer a unique configuration with partitions and sliding doors, allowing for either openness or complete privacy. Some seats face backwards, which may require some adjustment for travelers.
Features and Amenities
The Qsuite offers a flat bed, a touch TV screen, and charging ports, similar to other airlines’ business class offerings. However, the positioning of the stowed tray table can feel cramped when sleeping. Notable touches include rosewater-scented towelettes and a Diptyque amenities kit, adding to the luxurious experience.
Food service begins with Arabic coffee and dates, followed by a mint and lime welcome drink. The “dine-on-demand” menu allows passengers to order meals at their convenience, although popular items like afternoon tea and breakfast bircher muesli may run out if not ordered early.
Culinary Delights
New on flights departing from Australia are dishes by Woodcut’s Ross Lusted, including a lamb osso bucco-style dish that has been praised as one of the best meals served on a plane. On this flight, the Middle Eastern mezze and Qatari machboos, a local basmati rice dish with hamour, are standout options.
While the Oryx One entertainment system offers a limited selection of movies, passengers on Boeing 777s benefit from free Starlink Wi-Fi throughout the flight, with minimal interruptions. This connectivity will expand to A350 aircraft by summer 2025.
Sustainability Initiatives
Virgin Australia is committed to reducing emissions through fleet modernization, fuel optimization programs, and investments in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The partnership with Qatar Airways includes initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and advance the use of SAF and Low Carbon Aviation Fuels (LCAF) in Australia.
This development follows a growing trend in the aviation industry to prioritize sustainability, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
Implications for the Aviation Industry
The alliance between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways represents serious competition for Qantas, particularly for routes to the Middle East and Europe. Qatar Airways’ reputation for excellence, highlighted by its recent award as the world’s best airline, combined with Virgin Australia’s local presence, creates a formidable challenge for competitors.
“It’s easy to see why Qatar has won world’s best airline again this year, and the Qsuite is the most private and peaceful business class I’ve flown.” – Trudi Jenkins
With business class fares starting from approximately $8000 return, the enhanced travel experience is positioned as a premium offering in the market.
As the aviation industry continues to evolve, the Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways partnership sets a new standard for luxury and sustainability in air travel. Passengers can expect a superior experience that blends comfort, privacy, and environmental responsibility.
