Virgin Australia expands Qatar Airways alliance with launch of Perth to Doha route

Despite the travel chaos that dominated news headlines earlier this week, the show still went on for Virgin Australia, with the carrier launching its inaugural Perth to Doha route on Thursday.

As part of its milestone partnership with Qatar Airways, the airline has been phasing in its highly anticipated return to long-haul international flying over the past two weeks, and Perth has become the third Australian city to join the expanded network.

The maiden departure from Perth International Airport was a positive sign for the aviation industry after the widespread disruptions caused this week by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The new Virgin Australia routes to Doha use Qatar’s aircraft, which are equipped with the ultra-luxe Qsuite business class and feature the widest economy seats in the industry.

The alliance between the two carriers is significant as it connects Aussies to more than 170 destinations worldwide and will grow the capacity of flights from Australia to Doha to 2.65 million seats a year by the end of 2025.

There are also plenty of loyalty benefits for travellers who value their frequent flyer status.

Velocity members will receive 50 per cent bonus status credits on bookings made from now to June 30 for travel between October 1 and May 27 2026 on eligible Virgin Australia flights between Australia and Doha.

From October 1, Velocity will increase the number of status credits members will earn on the new routes to ensure consistency across Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways services.

Silver members will score 50 per cent bonus points, with 75 per cent for Gold members, and 100 per cent for Platinum — in addition to the benefits already available to Velocity members, from business class upgrades to dining vouchers at Hamad International Airport, premium lounge access, and extra baggage allowance.

Virgin Australia is celebrating the launch with a sale on fares to Doha and selected destinations in Europe.

Travellers can save up to 15 per cent on eligible fares for travel between October 15 and March 31 2026, if booked by 11.59pm Eastern States time on June 30.

Conditions apply. See more at virginaustralia.com.