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Virgin Australia Finalizes Sale & Leaseback for Four E190-E2s with Azorra

Virgin Australia has restructured its E190-E2 acquisition strategy by transferring four aircraft on order to Azorra (US) under a sale & leaseback agreement. This transaction allows Virgin Australia to retain operational access to the aircraft while optimizing its financial flexibility.

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Virgin Australia Rules Out Paul Jones as Successor to CEO Jayne Hrdlicka

Virgin Australia has confirmed that Paul Jones, the airline’s Chief Customer and Digital Officer, will not assume the role of Chief Executive Officer following the planned retirement of current CEO Jayne Hrdlicka. This decision comes amid external pressures and internal deliberations concerning the airline’s leadership succession.

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Virgin Australia Awaits Federal Approval Before CEO Announcement

Virgin Australia is holding off on announcing its new CEO as it awaits federal government approval for its proposed partnership deal with Qatar Airways. The decision to delay reflects the airline’s focus on securing strategic alignment with Qatar Airways, which could influence its leadership direction.

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Etihad to End Partnership with Virgin Australia in June 2025

Etihad Airways, the flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has announced that it will end its unilateral codeshare and bilateral frequent-flyer partnership with Virgin Australia effective June 1, 2025. The decision reflects a “divergence in the strategic direction” of the two airlines, according to Etihad’s statement.

Virgin Australia Pilots Support Qatar Airways Deal with Conditions

The Virgin Australia pilots’ union has extended its qualified support for the airline’s proposed partnership with Qatar Airways, as outlined in a recent submission to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). The union’s conditional backing reflects an interest in strengthening the alliance between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways while ensuring that pilots’ terms and conditions are safeguarded. This cautious endorsement…

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Qantas Criticizes Qatar Airways-Virgin Australia Deal as Approval is Reviewed

Qantas and other industry stakeholders have raised concerns about a proposed partnership between Qatar Airways and Virgin Australia. This agreement would see Qatar Airways operate new international routes on behalf of Virgin Australia, a move that has stirred debate within the Australian aviation industry. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is currently reviewing the deal to determine whether it aligns…