Virgin Australia continues its return to long-haul international flying with the launch of its inaugural Brisbane to Doha service which took off on Thursday.
Departing from the airline’s home port, the new route offers one-stop access to over 170 global destinations via Qatar Airways’ extensive network.
“These flights mark the beginning of a new era for Virgin Australia and for international travel from Australia,” said Virgin Australia Chief Executive Officer Dave Emerson. “Through our partnership with Qatar Airways, we’re not just launching new routes – we’re opening the world to millions of Australians, delivering more choice, better value and a seamless global experience.”
The Brisbane-Doha service forms part of a growing alliance between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways, with Sydney flights already operating, Perth to follow on 26 June, and Melbourne launching in December. The partnership is set to offer Australians enhanced connectivity across six continents.
Qatar Airways Group CEO, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, welcomed the launch. “This milestone moment in the partnership between our two airlines is the culmination of many months of meticulous planning and tireless dedication of our respective teams, as well as a testament to our shared ambition to deliver increased competition, world-class service and value to Australian passengers,” he said.
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By December 2025, the alliance is projected to deliver 2.65 million seats annually between Australia and Doha. The economic benefits are equally impressive, with more than $3 billion in projected economic activity and hundreds of new jobs in aviation, hospitality, and tourism sectors.
Passengers will travel aboard Qatar Airways’ Boeing 777 aircraft, featuring the award-winning Qsuite Business Class, named the “World’s Best Business Class” according to Skytrax 2024, as well as spacious Economy cabins. All passengers will also enjoy complimentary high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi throughout the journey.
The launch also brings enhanced loyalty perks for Velocity Frequent Flyer members, including bonus Status Credits, increased Points earning, and premium lounge access. From 1 October 2025, loyalty members will benefit from a harmonised Status Credit earn rate across both Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways services.
Queensland Minister for Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the new flights support the state’s 20-year tourism strategy. “These new flights mean more tourists enjoying everything Queensland has to offer… boosting business for Queensland tourism operators,” he said.
Meanwhile, Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff said: “We’re confident these new daily flights will boost tourism, strengthen international ties, and support Queensland’s exporters.”
