Singapore Airlines aircraft may be used to operate key domestic Australian routes, under options being discussed by Virgin Australia to assist passengers stranded by yesterday afternoon’s shock Qantas global grounding.
A statement issued this morning by Virgin Australia confirms that today the carrier will today offer more than 3000 extra seats between Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, Karratha and Perth, in addition to the recent addition of 40,000 extra domestic seats for travel between 14 Oct and 31 Jan 2012.
Virgin Australia also confirmed ongoing discussions with its alliance partners Etihad Airways, Singapore Airlines, Air New Zealand and Delta Air Lines, with options being explored including the use of SQ planes within Australia as well as operating EY aircraft between Sydney and Melbourne and other changes which would release a Virgin Australia 777 to operate between Los Angeles and Australia.
Extra Air NZ aircraft may be deployed on the Tasman in order to release Virgin Ausralia 737s for use domestically, the carrier said.
DJ is offering special “Stranded Passenger” fares at a discount of 20% to available “Saver” fares, available for travel through to 03 Nov 2011, and the airline is also increasing staffing levels at airports and contact centres to cope with enquiries.
MEANWHILE Flight Centre has also just issued a statement on the dispute, saying the Government should have stepped in sooner to protect the domestic tourism industry.
“The need for a fast resolution did not just arise – resolving this dispute has been in the country’s interests for some time,” said md Graham Turner.
“For the good of the airline, the tourism industry and for the broader economy, it is important that the threat of industrial action comes to an end as soon as possible. Alan Joyce is correct in saying that future bookings will be affected as long as there is the threat of further disruption,” he added.
“While both parties need to find a balance, it is important that management has the ability to run the business.”
To help assist affected passengers Flight Centre will open most of its stores across Australia today, as well as bolstering after hours assist teams in both leisure and corporate travel.
AND AirAsia X is also offering special ‘rescue fares’ of just A$150 (all inclusive) per sector for anyone holding a valid Qantas ticket to any AirAsia X destination for immediate travel in the next 48 hours.
That means it’s possible for these passengers to reach destinations such as London and Paris for just $300 one way from Australia, according to the airline’s head of commercial, Darren Wright.
To take advantage of the special offer passengers can simply present their valid QF ticket at the AirAsia X counter at Gold Coast, Melbourne or Perth Airports.