Virgin Australia Group welcomes ACCC draft approval of alliance with HNA Group

Virgin Australia Group welcomed (02-Jun-2017) the draft decision of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to authorise Virgin Australia's proposed strategic alliance with HNA Aviation, Hong Kong Airlines and HK Express. This decision follows the ACCC's decision to grant interim authorisation for the alliance in Mar-2017. The proposed alliance will enable Virgin Australia to introduce new direct services between Australia and Hong Kong as well as Australia and China. The carrier also plan to introduce a reciprocal partnership between Velocity Frequent Flyer and Fortune Wings Club to offer guests opportunities to earn points and access lounges. Virgin Australia Group CEO John Borghetti stated: "This new alliance will provide significantly more competition and choice for travellers. When the alliance is in place, guests will enjoy an expanded network of destinations across Australia, mainland China and Hong Kong". [more - original PR]