ATIA lauds government approval of Qatar Airways’ stake in Virgin Australia

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The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) welcomed the Federal Government’s approval of Qatar Airways’ 25 percent stake in Virgin Australia.

Association officials pointed out that this will enhance airline competition and create new opportunities for Australian travel agents and advisors.

The increased competition on international routes means more reasons for travellers to use travel agencies and advisors to secure the best value flights, particularly for long-haul travel to Europe.

With more airline options, travellers rely on expert advice to navigate the best routes, pricing and benefits.

An advantageous situation

ATIA chief executive Dean Long remarked that the acquisition is great news for Australians who want more choice and more competitive fares when travelling internationally, with greater choices on flights to Europe. 

Long said: “More competition in the skies drives innovation, better pricing and improved services for travellers. It also increases the potential for greater investment to drive domestic competition. It’s a decision which will bring long-term benefits to Australian travellers and the broader travel industry.”

The ATIA CEO added that the decision strengthens the role of travel agents and advisors in delivering value to consumers. 

For agencies, on the other hand, greater competition means more reasons for travellers to use agencies and their travel advisors to find the best value.

With regard to the association’s land supply members, greater competition and more competitive fares free up more of the budget for travellers to spend more on experiencing destinations through touring.

Long concluded by saying: “With greater competition comes greater negotiation power for travel agents and advisors to drive greater commercial outcomes.”

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