Virgin ‘naive’ to dispute our Emirates relationship: Qantas

Qantas says Virgin Australia’s “thinly veiled” attempts at having the carrier’s ten-year alliance with Emirates rejected would not only hurt Qantas but reduce competition on international routes.

In a submission to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), the Australian flag carrier’s outgoing general counsel Brett Johnson argued Virgin was “naive and wrong” to think the airline could “continue to expand internationally” with or without the Emirates relationship, The Australian Financial Review reported.

Mr Johnson explained a lack of a midway partner would result in more cuts between London and Europe, effectively reducing competition.?

“Virgin continues with its thinly veiled attempt to have the applications rejected,” he said. ?

“This is a clear attempt to minimise Qantas International's competitive position so the combined, formidable Virgin/Singapore Airlines/ Etihad/ Air NZ alliance will not need to respond as vigorously as it would if the [alliance] is authorised.”
Although still awaiting approval, the proposed alliance with Emirates is expected to commence from 31 March next year, and will replace Qantas’ 17-year joint business agreement with British Airways.

Sourced: etravelblackboardasia