Codeshare agreement a boon for Virgin Australia flyers

A new partnership between Virgin Australia and Link Airways is set to open up more regional destinations for Virgin flyers.

The codeshare agreement will expand Virgin Australia's regional footprint with more than 90 flights per week to be operated by Link Airways, including services to Inverell, Wollongong, and Biloela which are not currently serviced by any other major airline.

Velocity Frequent Flyer members will now be able to earn both points and status credits on 17 new regional codeshare services.

Effective immediately, flyers can book via Virgin Australia's travel agency partners, with fares available on virginaustralia.com from March 2024.

Velocity Platinum, Gold and Silver members will also earn bonus points and receive an additional baggage allowance when travelling on any Virgin Australia codeshare service operated by Link Airways.

Eligible Velocity members can also access Virgin Australia lounges when travelling on these Virgin Australia codeshare services.

New regional routes available as Virgin Australia codeshare flights include Brisbane-Coffs Harbour, Brisbane-Orange, Sydney-Narrabri, Sydney-Inverell, Melbourne-Wollongong and Canberra-Hobart.

"The announcement in partnership with Link Airways underscores our commitment to delivering great value, flexibility and choice to Australians, and boosting connections for customers living in regional Australia,” said Virgin Australia Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, Alistair Hartley.

“Importantly the partnership is also set to support regional trade and tourism in destinations like Inverell, Wollongong and Biloela, which are not currently serviced by any other major airline."

Link Airways Chief Executive Officer Andrew Major said: “Link Airways is very pleased to join Virgin Australia in announcing this codeshare agreement which will provide significant additional travel opportunities to passengers Australia-wide, particularly those in regional areas.

"Benefits will include better connectivity and more choice for regional customers thanks to Virgin Australia’s expansive route network.”