Virgin Australia and Skywest Welcome Final ACCC Approval of Expanded Alliance

The alliance will allow the two airlines to jointly contract with corporate customers, offering them an integrated travel solution including scheduled and charter services to regional, domestic and international destinations.

It will also enable Virgin Australia to extend its Velocity Frequent Flyer program to Skywest's charter services, allowing joint corporate customers to earn frequent flyer Points and Status Credits on charter services and access preferred seating, priority check-in and Virgin Australia lounges.

Virgin Australia Group Executive of Alliances, Network and Yield, Merren McArthur said the expanded alliance would enhance the airline's ability to meet increased demand from the resources and mining industries.

"We are delighted to receive final approval from the ACCC for our proposed expanded alliance with Skywest Airlines.

"By working more closely with Skywest, we will be able to offer a more tailored and comprehensive travel experience integrating their charter services with Virgin Australia's extensive domestic and international network. This will provide a range of benefits for resources and mining companies, including more competitive pricing, enhanced flight connections and a higher quality overall travel experience.

"Virgin Australia is committed to increasing competition in the Australian corporate travel market and the expansion of our alliance with Skywest is an important part of this strategy", Ms McArthur said.

Skywest Airlines Chief Executive Officer, Jason Bitter said "we are excited about the opportunities the ACCC's final approval of the expanded alliance between Skywest and Virgin Australia presents for future growth within the business.

"Final approval of the alliance enables Skywest to offer our corporate clients one solution for all their travel needs, including scheduled and charter services to regional, domestic and international destinations. We expect to now grow this partnership to build and offer a more aligned product, customer experience and expanded network."

Having been granted interim approval from the ACCC in January, Virgin Australia and Skywest are already working together on some joint corporate tenders and charter opportunities.