MEDIA STATEMENT: Crisafulli Government lands deal for new era of international travel from Brisbane

Crisafulli Government lands deal for new era of international travel from Brisbane

• Virgin Australia partners with Qatar Airways to provide new opportunities to travel to more than 100 destinations.
• Flights go on sale today, for flights from June 2025.
• More than 129,000 seats will bring visitors expected to spend $91million.

The Crisafulli Government has secured a deal that sees Virgin Australia joining with partner airline Qatar Airway to deliver more choice for Queenslanders heading overseas, while bringing thousands of visitors from around the world to Queensland.  

Starting today Queenslanders can book Virgin Australia’s new services to fly directly from Brisbane to more than 100 destinations across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

More than 129,000 inbound seats will bring visitors who are expected to deliver $91.04 million in overnight visitor spending each year, boosting local tourism businesses, and providing opportunity for Queenslanders who work in the sector.

Minister Andrew Powell said the deal was a big win for Queensland.

“Not only do we get a huge boost in the number of visitors coming to see our great State, but our key export industry will be filling those planes’ cargo holds as they head back to the Middle East and beyond,” Minister Powell said.

“This is another great plank in our preparation for the 20-year Tourism Plan, and the sort of offering we want to deliver for Queensland.

“The Attracting Aviation Investment Fund has already secured 40 deals for international services to Queensland, supporting more than 24,000 Queensland jobs.

“The Crisafulli Government is committed to building this vital sector of the economy which delivers economic benefits right across the state.”

Virgin Australia Group CEO Jayne Hrdlicka said the new airline partnership was a gamechanger, driving benefits to consumers, the economy and Australian aviation.

“This is a huge win for Australian travelers which brings more value and choice for passengers wanting to fly internationally,” said Ms Hrdlicka.

“Through this partnership, Virgin Australia becomes stronger, improving our ability to compete domestically which is great news for our people and consumers.

“This also gives us the ability to start long haul flying which have not been able to do over the past four and half years.

“Our 28 new weekly services to Doha will open up a world of opportunity for those wanting to travel.”

Brisbane Airport Corporation CEO, Gert-Jan de Graaff said Virgin Australia’s re-entry into long haul flying was an exciting time for Queensland.

“This is fantastic news for the Brisbane-headquartered airline and even better news for Queensland’s tourism-driven economy,” said Mr de Graaff.

“It’s a big win for local jobs and for connecting Brisbane to the world.” 

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Fiona Crawford 0417700363